Teaching ESL Composition: Purpose, Process, and Practice

by Dana R. Ferris, John Hedgcock

Intended for pre- and in-service ESL writing teachers, Teaching ESL Composition: Purpose, Process, and Practice blends current reviews of research with extensive coverage of practical topics related to the teaching of ESL writers in academic settings.

Second language writing as a field of expertise is relatively new; to date, very little has been written to help in-service and pre-service ESL writing instructors to become experts. This volume is unique in that it addresses in great detail practical concerns related to the teaching of ESL writing--lesson planning, text selection, responding to student writing, assessing student texts, and using computers for writing--providing extensive sample materials, figures, appendices, and application activities. At the same time, the text provides current and comprehensive reviews of research and theory in ESL composition in general, as well as a treatment of specific practical topics. Prospective and practicing teachers of ESL writing as well as researchers examining various issues in second-language composition will find this important volume to be distinctively interesting, useful, and relevant.

Genres: Textbooks, Writing, Education, Teaching, Language

352 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1998

Reviews

[Roux Stellarsphyr · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprisingly non-esoteric (as non-esoteric as you can get while talking about theory), Ferris & Hedgcock succeed in providing solid theoretical frameworks with thoughtful practical applications. Although the text is rooted in second language writing, I think it would be of use as well to the developmental reading and writing teacher for native English speakers. The depth of research that Ferris & Hedgcock provide would also be useful to the introductory scholar-teacher who has never been exposed to second language acquisition/writing research.

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an excellent resource for preparing to teach L2 students. It provides lesson plan ideas. Research on why and how you could teach a principle. It includes cultural information. Really, very excellent! I highly recommend for anyone that teaches L2 students.

[Joel · Rating 3 out of 5]

Used this in grad school; now I actually need to read it to prepare for classes I'm teaching!

[Derya Kulavuz-Onal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is primarily targeted towards the the second language writing principles and theories, and the practices and issues of teaching second language writing at the college level.