Basic concepts and
terminology used for
describing writing skills

Writing is a fundamental skill in language learning, enabling students to express their thoughts, organize ideas, and communicate effectively. However, writing skill is more than just putting words on paper—it involves a range of skills, from grammar and vocabulary to coherence and creativity. To teach writing effectively, it’s important to understand the basic concepts and terminology used to describe writing skills. In this lesson, we’ll explore these concepts and show how you can apply them to plan and teach writing lessons that help your students succeed.

Key concepts and terminology for
describing writing skill

Here are some of the most important terms and ideas you need to know when teaching writing:

Coherence

• Coherence refers to how well ideas in a text are connected and organized. A coherent piece of writing is easy to follow and understand.
• Example: Using linking words like “however,” “therefore,” and “in addition” to connect ideas.

Cohesion

• Cohesion refers to the grammatical and lexical connections between sentences and paragraphs. It ensures that the text flows smoothly.
• Example: Using pronouns (e.g., “he,” “it”) or synonyms to avoid repetition and maintain flow.

Grammar and syntax

• Grammar refers to the rules of language, while syntax refers to the arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences.
• Example: Ensuring subject-verb agreement and correct word order in sentences.

Vocabulary

• Vocabulary refers to the range of words a writer uses. A rich vocabulary allows for more precise and varied expression.
• Example: Using words like “enormous” instead of “big” to add variety and specificity.

Purpose and audience

• Purpose refers to the reason for writing (e.g., to inform, persuade, or entertain), while audience refers to the intended readers.
• Example: Writing a formal letter to a company requires a different tone and style than writing a casual email to a friend.

Genre and text type

• Genre refers to the category of writing (e.g., narrative, descriptive, persuasive), while text type refers to the specific format (e.g., essay, report, story).
• Example: A narrative essay tells a story, while a persuasive essay argues a point.

Planning and drafting

• Planning involves organizing ideas before writing, while drafting is the process of creating the first version of a text.
• Example: Using a mind map to brainstorm ideas before writing an essay.

Editing and proofreading

• Editing involves revising the content and structure of a text, while proofreading focuses on correcting grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.
• Example: Checking for run-on sentences during editing and fixing typos during proofreading.

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…”

Creativity and originality

• Creativity refers to the ability to produce original and imaginative ideas, while originality refers to the uniqueness of the content.
• Example: Writing a story with an unexpected twist or a unique perspective.

How to apply these concepts to
practical teaching of writing skill

Understanding these key concepts allows you to design writing lessons that address the specific needs of your students. Here’s how to apply this knowledge:

Teach 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.

Focus on grammar and syntax

• Use grammar exercises and sentence-building activities to help students write clear and accurate sentences.
• Example: Practice subject-verb agreement by having students correct sentences like “The team areplaying well.”

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 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 and text types

• 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.

Teach planning and drafting

• Show students how to brainstorm ideas, create outlines, and write drafts. Emphasize the importance of organizing ideas before writing.
• Example: Use a graphic organizer to help students plan an essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Practice editing and proofreading

• Teach students to revise their work for content and structure, then proofread for grammar and spelling errors.
• Example: Provide a checklist for editing (e.g., “Does each paragraph have a clear topic sentence?”) and proofreading (e.g., “Are all words spelled correctly?”).

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 skill

Here are some classroom activities to help students practice writing:

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 key concepts and using practical teaching strategies, 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

What’s your favorite way to teach writing skills? 
In your CELTA journal, reflect on your favorite strategies for teaching writing. Describe your experiences, the challenges you’ve faced when you were teaching, and how you overcame them.

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