Writing in English as a Second Language

Abstract: The aim of this essay was to extend my knowledge of teaching writing and children's attitudes towards writing in English. I chose to focus my study on grade six, as I had the opportunity to work with two different classes in Linköping and Södertälje. I assigned them a free writing task as well as a questinnaire. In the literture study I intended to extend my knowledge of the process of writing in a second language. Throught the course of my research I have come to understand how important it is to choose subjects which inspire all pupils to write. They should also have the opportunity to choose subjects which interests them. It is the content which is important not the layout or spelling. In my study I have found that pupils take writing in English seriously. However, I have also found that without an encouraging teacher, it is hard to engage pupils in writing. One could say that it is the teacher who directs the writing process. Moreover, the pupils need to be motivated and interested to write well. This includes having varied lessons and considering the pupils'explicit needs.