In this issue we have two letters from readers in Haiphong and Kien Giang who both have queries about teaching writing skills. Graeme Given, our Language Doctor for this issue, gives some sound, practical advice.

Dear Language Doctor

I’ve noticed that many of my students frequently have problems using linking words (but, so, although) effectively in their writing and as a result it doesn’t read fluently. Do you have any ideas how I can help my students?

Cao My Hanh
Haiphong

This is a common problem for many students, My Hanh, and I’m sure there are lots of teachers out there who empathise with you. I give my students an authentic text (e.g. a newspaper report, paragraph from your textbook) with the linking words removed, students discuss and identify the problem and rewrite the text using linking words where necessary to improve cohesion. It’s a good idea to give students a model text so they have an example of how to use linkers to good effect. Hope this helps, My Hanh!


Send your letters to Language Doctor VTTN British Council, 40 Cat Linh, Hanoi

Dear Language Doctor

In my English classes, even the best students don’t seem to be able to write in paragraphs. They produce long pieces of writing but they either write in one long paragraph or begin a new line with a new sentence. Maybe it’s not that important, but both me and the other teachers in my school would like to hear your opinion. I wasn’t able to attend the last VTTN workshop so couldn’t benefit from all the writing tips.

Nguyen Kim Thanh
Kien Giang

Thanks for your letter, Kim Thanh. And sorry to hear that you couldn’t take part in the workshop – maybe next time. The problem you mention was also voiced by teachers at the workshops and is usually a mother tongue influence. My advice is to try and get students to identify the difference between sentences and paragraphs. Cut up two paragraphs into sentences ( you can do this equally well on the board) and ask students to put them into the correct order and to identify the number of paragraphs there are. This really gets students to thinks about paragraphing. Another idea is to get students to draw a grid with paragraph headings (related to their writing topic) and as a group to brainstorm ideas for each paragraph. This way students will be focused on the need to break down their ideas into paragraphs. The key is to get students thinking about their writing and the effect it has on the reader. Stress that like speaking, writing is communication and a writer needs to think how to help the reader understand his or her message.
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