Interactive Writing: The Use of Dialogue Journals in L2 Classrooms :Interactive Writing: The Use of Dialogue Journals in L2 Classrooms


Dialogue Journals: What are they? :Dialogue Journals: What are they? Written conversations in which a learner and a teacher (or other writing partner) communicate regularly on a wide range of topics in a variety of styles Teacher is a PARTICIPANT, not an evaluator Primary goal is COMMUNICATION


History/Origins :History/Origins 1980; Los Angeles, California Teacher: Leslee Reed Students: 6th grade, both native and non-native English speakers Format: daily exchange in notebook Primary purpose: to get to know students Reseachers: J. Staton and J.K. Peyton


Evolution since the 1980’s… :Evolution since the 1980’s… Contexts: Kindergarten-University levels Literacy in L1 and L2 General content classes Deaf students Teacher training Formats: Learner/learner, learner/group Electronic dialogue journals


Why use dialogue journals in ESL/EFL Classrooms? :Why use dialogue journals in ESL/EFL Classrooms? Means of 1:1 COMMUNICATION with individual students Provides a mechanism for LITERACY DEVELOPMENT ELLs need authentic opportunities to write in order to become writers!! They should not be “kept from writing” while grammar, spelling, vocabulary, punctuation and organizational writing skills develop. These can be developed in the context of the learner’s own writing.


What are some benefits of using dialogue journals in ESL/EFL? :What are some benefits of using dialogue journals in ESL/EFL? Extends contact time between teacher/student Source of needs assessment data Record of progress/assessment tool Facilitates language learning: sociocultural theory of SLA and Vygotsky’s Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)


What are some concerns about using dialogue journals? :What are some concerns about using dialogue journals? Worries about uncorrected errors in the writing TIME Overly personal/inappropriate topics Settings where open communication can have negative consequences for individuals


Logistics: How to use dialogue journals in the classroom :Logistics: How to use dialogue journals in the classroom Format: bound notebook; electronic Frequency: REGULAR writing is the key! Amount of writing Instructions for writing Responses to the learner’s writing


Adapt the practice to fit: :Adapt the practice to fit: The learners The purpose The context Other“key players” (administrators, parents)


Recap/Conclusion: Dialogue journals :Recap/Conclusion: Dialogue journals Are conversations written between a teacher and learner on a regular basis for the primary purpose of communication They serve as: A forum for development of teacher/student relationship A forum for literacy development in the learner A forum for personal expression by learner in writing A record of learner writing which can be used for needs assessment, to evaluate progress in writing skills, and to plan lessons


And most importantly….. :And most importantly….. Dialogue journals are learner-centered The goal is communication They can be used with all proficiency levels “ Learner and teacher together collaborate to create written conversations….In the process, both writers become teacher and learner.” (Sarah Hudelson)


Relax and Enjoy Writing! :Relax and Enjoy Writing!