6 Steps to

Process-based
Writing
 Contents
01 02 03 04

The Process
Approaches to The Process Approach: Notes to the
Writing Approach Phases teacher
01

Approaches
to Writing
Two approaches to writing are widely
applied in the classrooms: the more
traditional Product Approach, and the
more creative Process Approach.
Product-based Process-based
Approach Approach
Aims at reproducing a Aims at developing
model text. language use through a
series of steps.
02
The Process Writing is a creative act

Writing is not done in just one sitting. It is planned and

Approach
it evolves, changing its shape as it develops.

Writing is broken down into steps

Two major stages can be identified: the pre-writing

stage and the writing stage. These, in turn, can be
divided into smaller tasks.

Feedback is provided between drafts

In this process approach, the teacher provides feedback

during the whole process, rather than just at the end.
03
Process Aproach: Phases
The Process-based approach to writing can have any number of stages. However, two phases can be
identified, each one consisting of a number of varying steps.

Pre-writing Writing
In this stage, the focus is on generating Students write a series of drafts focusing on content
ideas. Students do not need to do much first, and then on form. The teacher provides
(or any) writing. feedback throughout the process.
Pre-writing
Expanding

Extend the ideas by

making notes.

Brainstorming Planning

Generate ideas by Organise the ideas

discussing in groups. into a diagram.
Writing
Proofreading

Check the content,

grammar, and vocabulary.

Drafting Redrafting

Write a first draft. Turn the Rewrite the text making

ideas into sentences and link the necessary changes.
them. (Redraft if necessary).
04

Notes to the teacher

The Process Approach to teaching writing focuses on developing language use. Rather than aiming
at reproducing a model text, students are guided through a series of classroom activities that
promote discussion, evaluation, organisation, and development of ideas.

The flexible but complex nature of this approach makes it time-consuming, and may even be
frustrating for the learners. A supportive atmosphere and timely feedback from the teachers are key
to the process. Eventually, their written work will improve and their efforts will bear fruit.
Grab a pencil or computer and...

Happy
Writing!