Subskills and features of
written texts

Writing is a multifaceted skill that involves more than just putting words on paper. It requires a range of subskills, from organizing ideas to using appropriate grammar and vocabulary. Additionally, written texts have specific features that vary depending on the genre, purpose, and audience. As teachers, understanding these subskills and features is essential for helping students become effective writers. In this lesson, we’ll explore the key subskills of writing and the features of written texts, and show how you can use this knowledge to enhance your teaching.

What are the subskills of writing?

Writing involves several subskills that work together to create a coherent and effective text. Here are some of the most important ones:

Planning and organizing

This involves brainstorming ideas, creating outlines, and structuring the text logically.
Example: Using a mind map to organize ideas before writing an essay.

Drafting

This is the process of writing the first version of a text, focusing on getting ideas down without worrying too much about perfection.
Example: Writing a rough draft of a story or essay.

Revising

This involves reviewing and improving the content, structure, and clarity of the text.
Example: Adding more details to a paragraph or rearranging sentences for better flow.

Editing

This focuses on correcting grammar, spelling, punctuation, and word choice errors.
Example: Fixing subject-verb agreement or replacing overused words with synonyms.

Using appropriate vocabulary

This involves selecting words that are suitable for the purpose, audience, and context of the writing.
Example: Using formal vocabulary in a business letter and informal vocabulary in a personal email.

Applying grammar and syntax

This involves using correct grammar and sentence structure to ensure clarity and accuracy.
Example: Ensuring that sentences are complete and that verb tenses are used correctly.

Creating coherence and cohesion:

Coherence refers to the logical flow of ideas, while cohesion refers to the grammatical and lexical connections between sentences and paragraphs.
Example: Using linking words like “however,” “therefore,” and “in addition” to connect ideas.

Adapting to purpose and audience:

This involves adjusting the tone, style, and content of the writing to suit the intended readers and the purpose of the text.
Example: Writing a persuasive essay to convince readers and an informative report to educate them.

Proofreading:

This is the final check for errors before submitting or publishing the text.
Example: Checking for typos, missing punctuation, or formatting issues.

What are the features of
written texts?

Written texts have specific features that vary depending on the genre, purpose, and audience. Here are some key features to consider:

Text structure

This refers to the organization of the text, including paragraphs, headings, and sections.
Example: An essay typically has an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Tone and style

Tone refers to the writer’s attitude (e.g., formal, informal, humorous), while style refers to the way the writer expresses ideas (e.g., concise, descriptive).
Example: A formal tone might use phrases like “I am writing to inquire,” while an informal tone might use “Just wanted to ask…”

Language and vocabulary

The choice of words and phrases depends on the purpose and audience of the text.
Example: Technical writing uses specialized vocabulary, while creative writing uses descriptive and imaginative language.

Grammar and syntax

The rules of grammar and sentence structure ensure that the text is clear and accurate.
Example: Using correct verb tenses and avoiding run-on sentences.

Coherence and cohesion

Coherence ensures that the text is easy to follow, while cohesion ensures that the text flows smoothly.
Example: Using linking words and pronouns to connect ideas and avoid repetition.

Purpose and audience

The purpose of the text (e.g., to inform, persuade, entertain) and the intended audience influence its content and style.
Example: A news article aims to inform and uses a neutral tone, while a blog post might aim to entertain and use a casual tone.

Genre-specific features

Different genres have unique features that distinguish them from others.
Example: A narrative story includes characters, a plot, and a setting, while a persuasive essay includes arguments and evidence.

How to use this knowledge in teaching

Understanding the subskills of writing and the features of written texts allows you to design lessons that address the specific needs of your students. Here’s how to apply this knowledge:

Teach planning and organizing

Use graphic organizers, mind maps, and outlines to help students plan their writing.
Example: Provide a template for an essay outline with sections for the introduction, body, and conclusion.

Focus on drafting and revising

Encourage students to write rough drafts and then revise them for content and structure.
Example: Have students write a first draft of a story, then revise it to add more details or improve the flow.

Practice editing and proofreading

Teach students to identify and correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
Example: Provide a checklist for editing and proofreading, including items like “Check for subject-verb agreement” and “Fix run-on sentences.”

Expand vocabulary

Teach new words and phrases in context and encourage students to use them in their writing.
Example: Provide a list of descriptive adjectives and ask students to use them in a story.

Highlight coherence and cohesion

Show students how to use linking words, pronouns, and synonyms to connect ideas and create a smooth flow.
Example: Provide a paragraph with missing linking words and ask students to fill in the blanks.

Adapt to purpose and audience

Teach students to adjust their writing based on the purpose and audience. Use examples to show how tone and style change in different contexts.
Example: Compare a formal business email with a casual text message to highlight the differences.

Introduce different genres

Expose students to a variety of writing genres and formats. Provide models and guide them through the writing process.
Example: Teach narrative writing by analyzing a short story, then have students write their own.

Encourage creativity and originality

Use prompts and activities that inspire students to think creatively and express their unique perspectives.
Example: Ask students to write a story from the perspective of an inanimate object, like a chair or a pencil.

Practical activities for teaching writing subskills and features

Here are some classroom activities to help students practice writing subskills and features:

Paragraph writing

Provide a topic and ask students to write a coherent paragraph using linking words and clear organization.

Sentence combining

Give students short, simple sentences and ask them to combine them into longer, more complex sentences.

Vocabulary expansion

Provide a list of synonyms and ask students to rewrite sentences using more varied vocabulary.

Genre analysis

Analyze examples of different genres (e.g., a news article, a poem, a persuasive essay) and discuss their features.

Peer review

Have students exchange drafts and provide feedback on coherence, grammar, and creativity.

Creative writing prompts

Use prompts like “What would you do if you could fly?” to inspire imaginative writing.

Final thoughts

Writing is a complex skill, but by understanding the subskills and features of written texts, you can help your students become confident and effective writers. Whether it’s improving coherence, expanding vocabulary, or encouraging creativity, your guidance can make all the difference.

So, the next time you plan a writing lesson, remember to focus on the specific needs of your students and provide plenty of opportunities for practice and feedback. Happy teaching!

To your CELTA journal

Think about your favorite ways to teach writing subskills and features of written text to your students.
Reflect on your favorite methods you use to teach them. Write in your CELTA journal about your experiences, the strategies you use, and why they are effective. Describe any challenges you have faced and explain how you addressed them.

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Subskills and features of written texts