There are several ways to approach writing in the classroom. One of these ways is the Product Approach which is a traditional approach to teaching writing in which students are encouraged to mimic a model text, which is usually presented and analyzed at an early stage.
Some of the benefits and characteristics of this approach are:
- Difficulties in writing are minimized since students start writing on a very controlled basis.
- Model texts are imitated.
- The organization of ideas is more important than the ideas themselves.
- A lot of emphases is placed on the end product
Now let’s learn more about the product approach to writing
Table of Contents
Steps to Apply the Product Approach to Writing
There are four main steps in applying the product approach to writing.
- Students read a model text. Then they analyze the text by looking at the features, such as organization of ideas, use of language, etc.
- Students do controlled activities to practice the features highlighted in the analysis of the model text.
- Students prepare to imitate the model text by organizing a pre-determined set of ideas to fit the model
- Students do the writing task by using the skills, structures, and vocabulary they have practiced to produce the expected written product.
Strengths and Weakness of the Product Approach to Writing
Strengths
- It is easy to use with large classes.
- It is really useful when teaching beginners.
- It is easier to grade because this approach mainly focuses on form.
- Difficulties and errors are usually minimized since this is based on imitation.
- Students know what the end results look like.
Weaknesses
- This approach doesn’t teach students to write independently.
- It discourages creativity since this approach relies heavily on the imitation of model text.
- It devalues the learner’s linguistic and personal potential.
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