Successful writers are the ones who are adept at manipulating writing strategies in accordance with their purpose of writing and the audience, and also well aware of different structures for different genres. “Strategies are problem-solving behaviors that writers use thoughtfully and consciously” when faced with problems during the writing process (Tompkins, 2008, p. 52). Strategic writers select and use appropriate strategies, organize ideas for writing, monitor development of their compositions, and revise their meaning as they refine their writing (Lewin, 1992, Paris and Jacobs, 1984; Schmitt, 1990). Most importantly, strategy problems are harder to fix than skill problems. Graham, MacArthur, and Fitzgerald (2007) emphasized that “At every level, teachers must incorporate strategy instruction” (, p. 36). Thus, rather than imposing traditional skills-focused instructions in EFL writing classes, teachers need to experiment with an array of heuristics and techniques to provide a more effective and balanced guidance. It is our responsibility as teachers “to teach children how to write, and part of that responsibility is teaching children strategies and skills that capable writers use” (Tomkins, 2008, p. 71).
Response to Sohee Kim
Yes, writing can be a very daunting and demanding task especially for a novice EFL writer. I totally agree with that. I also remember struggling to know the better and faster way to become a good writer when I started learning English. As you stated, it will one of important roles of a teacher to provide instructions on writing strategies and skills to develop a hunch on good writing. Mini-lessons seem very workable to that end.
Sources
Graham, S., MacArthur, Charles A, and Fitzgerald, J. (2007). Best Practices in
Writing Instruction. New-York, NY: The Guilford Press
Tompkins, Gail E. (2008). Teaching writing: Balancing process and product. Upper
Saddle River, NJ: Pearson
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