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The content in this unit supplements that of Unit 11 because it focuses on the remaining two aspects of language learning and usage: Speaking and Writing (known as Productive Skills).
Interestingly, speaking is the most commonly studied aspect of ESL learning. Speaking is a great way for a student to gain on-the-spot correction and practice. It requires greater fluency than writing because often there isn't enough time to stop and plan one's answer. On the other hand, writing seems to be the most neglected aspect of language learning because teachers don't want to spend valuable class time having students write quietly and end up assigning it as homework. However, writing – especially creative writing – activities done in pairs or groups can be a great way to get students engaged with writing.
There are two types of speaking activities: those that focus on accuracy and those that focus on fluency. Accuracy activities can usually be found int he Study phase of an ESA lesson because they concentrate on producing 'correct language.' These activities are often controlled/guided fully by the teacher. Fluency activities, on the other hand, are more concerned the effectiveness and flow of the communication. The activity may be setup by the teacher, but the students are fully responsible for the content and flow of it. The key to remember is that fluency and accuracy are of equal importance.
The second productive skill is Writing. Writing can differ from speaking in a number of ways, including grammar, vocabulary, spelling, handwriting, layout and punctuation. For example, in some countries they use a different alphabet than we do in English. They also may write from right to left as opposed to the left to right that is typical amongst Western countries. Handwriting is important to the extent that it needs to be clear and legible. Hard to decipher writing can lead to a reader having a negative view of whatever someone writes. The two greatest things we can do as ESL teachers to help students improve their English writing skills is to have them read extensively so as to indirectly learn spelling, structure, grammar and layout. And we can set up a number of creative writing activities as these often instill a sense of pride and create engagement. This way, they'll find writing fun and want to improve/practice.
