Ferris, D. (1999). The case for grammar correction in L2 writing classes: A response to truscott. Hamp-Lyons, L. (1995). Rating nonnative writing

Ferris makes a good argument for further research into the effectiveness and appropriateness of using error correction in the teaching of writing and particularly in the teaching of writing to L2 students. After reading her article, I would like to pose a few questions for thought to everyone.

1)Why is it important that teachers correct student grammar in their texts?

2)If you do not consider error correction to be an important aspect of teaching writing, why do you feel this way?

3) Is it possible that there would be no ill effects if teachers simply ceased to perform acts of error correction with their students?

4) At what point did you become aware of the value or detriment of error correction in your own educational experience?


Hamp-Lyons made an interesting argument about the value (or lack therof) of holistic scoring. She argued that conventional methods of holistic scoring do not support fully comprehensive and accurate assessments of student writing capabilities.

When you score student writing, what elements are you actually evaluating?

What biases might you bring to your analyis of a student's text that might differ from those of another teacher reading and evaluating the same text?

I have had instances where I have receieved completely opposite reviews on the exact same text from different professors, have you? If so, how did you come to an understanding about how two people could have such disparate views on the same text?