Writing: theory, research and practice
Dr Ilana Snyder
Summer semester * Clayton
This subject examines recent developments in writing research and practice, and explores the influence of theory and research in the teaching and learning of writing P-12 and tertiary. The subject has two major objectives: (1) to investigate the range of curriculum possibilities available to teachers of writing; and (2) to develop students' research skills. Topics include an historical overview of research in writing with a particular emphasis on product, process and social views of writing; an analysis of composing processes; approaches to the teaching of writing; writing narrative and argument; writing with computers; assessing and responding to students' writing; teaching and learning writing for students from non-English-speaking backgrounds. The subject is designed to give students an understanding of the major issues and current debates in writing theory and practice. A collection of readings is provided for the subject. It includes articles by Emig, Christie, Brandt, Bizzell, Graves, Murray, Andrews, Barnes, Selfe, Swales.
Assessment
One assignment (6000 words) * Presentation of assignment to class for discussion