Here is the ongoing list of topics/tasks for the English Ed(ucation) Writing Lab, with direct links to the places where the writing should be submitted. Please note that new sections and topics will be added to the list on an ongoing basis.
SECTION A: CATEGORIZATION ESSAY TOPICS
SECTION B: COLLABORATIVE ESSAY TOPICS (TO PRACTICE CATEGORIZATION WRITING SKILLS)
Note 1: The list of topics below is designed for collaborative writing activities, involving two or more students. The basic idea is to take turns building the different parts of a categorization essay of five paragraphs. One student writes an introduction, the next writes the first body paragraph, the following person adds a second body paragraph, etc. Once a five paragraph essay has been produced (introduction + 3 body paragraphs + conclusion), another person then edits it and enters it online.
Note 2: These essays should be entered as new topics. Do not post them here as replies to this particular topic thread. Click on the "start a topic" option, and enter "Collaborative Essay + (the topic)" into the subject line. It is also a good idea to list the participants in the collaborative essay building process, and the name of the editor who posted the final result. See one of my own examples for this activity here.
1. Explain your top tips for improving English reading skills.
2. What kinds of jobs in your country benefit from having English language proficiency?
3. How can English language teachers facilitate more motivation in their learners?
4. Explain your top tips for improving English speaking skills.
5. What do you think are the main elements required to prepare well for teaching English lessons?
6. In what ways can local (non-native speaker) teachers create positive learning experiences for English students in your country?
7. What are some of the ways English teachers can help each other in a collaborative sense?
8. What makes English difficult to learn for people in your country?
9. Explain your top tips for improving English writing skills.
10. In what ways does the testing/assessment system in your country inhibit practical English skills?
11. In what ways can the Internet help with English language skills?
12. Explain your top tips for improving English listening skills.
13. What are the characteristics of a good English language learner?
14. Explain some of the ways the government in your country could improve English language learning for students.
15. How can English language proficiency assist university students in your country?
16. What do you think are the most important roles of a good English teacher?
17. Explain your top tips for improving English grammar skills.
18. Explain the most obvious benefits of learning English from a native speaker.
19. What are some of the situations in your country where communicative proficiency in English will be helpful?
20. Explain your top tips for improving English vocabulary skills.
[ Section C topics will appear here soon! ]
Please DO NOT post your compositions here in response to any of these topics. This is a reference menu only, with links you can click on to access the appropriate writing pages.
Best wishes,
~ Jason
