Teaching and Learning to Write: Using a Task-Based Approach in an EFL Class

Task-Based Language Teaching: An Approach

Task-based language teaching is an approach rather than a method which creates a natural context for using the target language in the classroom. It allows students to explore their ideas and choose their own words, and thus become active learners. It also gives teachers an opportunity to develop activities in the form of interesting tasks on familiar subjects. The lesson is based on the completion of a task and the language studied is determined by what happens as the students proceed with the work. It is an approach that offers students material that they have to actively engage with in the process of their learning, enabling them to explore their ideas freely and use their own words without worrying about mistakes in grammar, vocabulary or other mechanical aspects of writing. When they practice to write continually and complete their tasks, they can build their vocabulary and improve their handling of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and useful expressions. The familiarity of the topic and the enjoyment of the task are a solution to students’ writing difficulties.