Exemplar-based Instruction in China’s ESL English Writing: From Theory to Practice

Abstract

This article explores an exemplar-based teaching mode which can be used in English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) writing classrooms for Chinese undergraduates. This project adopts an exemplar-based textbook published by Foreign Language Teaching and Research Press to prepare freshmen’s writing. Theoretical underpinnings of the use of exemplars, namely scaffolding theory, will be given. The discussion finishes by suggestion of some tasks of this teaching approach for ESL writing instructors who are interested in using exemplars to cultivate students’ writing. This topic of e-education drawn from Contemporary College English Advanced Writing, which is currently used in most of China’s universities, has been chosen to illustrate ways in which this might be achieved. Five tasks are presented in order to highlight the complexity of writing for ESL learners and to illustrate ways in which it can be made more accessible. The possible benefit can be seen in teacher’s and students’ applying this writing practice not just for the current topic but also for other writing topics in ESL writing classrooms. Furthermore, this work sheds some lights on curriculum, pedagogy, and teacher education in various writing contexts.