Interactive writing

What and why?

Most often, the writing that students do in school is simply for the eyes of the teacher. Interactive writing involves students writing to and with other students. There are a number of reasons why this might be useful. Firstly, writing to other students can give the students a clear sense of purpose and a sense of having an audience for their writing - they can get FEEDBACK from the reader on how far their message has been understood. Secondly, writing with other students can give them a clear focus for their work. Interactive writing will involve them in asking each other about grammar, spelling, vocabulary, phrasing, etc. and so give them the chance to learn in a non-threatening atmosphere. This kind of interaction is also central to PROCESS WRITING.

Practical ideas

• While students are working in groups, you can circulate around the class, reading what they have written and helping with any problems.
• Discussion during interactive writing tasks may be in the MOTHER TONGUE. This may not be a problem since one of the purposes of interactive writing is to enable students to exchange ideas. An 'English only' rule may prevent this. The important point is to insist that the writing that they produce is in English.
• Writing can be a sensitive area and some students may not want to write with other students or have their work seen by other students. In this case, they should be entitled to work alone if they wish.