Revising

Reasons for revising

• Revising allows the writer to reshape the writing and make the meaning clearer.
• You can use this time to address any writing concerns.
• Use this time to help your learner explain what he is attempting to communicate.
• When you work on revising together, it shows that you are interested in your learner’s writing.

While revising

• Listen carefully and pay close attention as the writer reads his work.
• Allow your learner to ask for clarification on points he is unsure about.
• Focus on the content and not on mechanics (spelling, grammar, and so on).
• Always tell him why you liked something or did not understand something to give the writer more information.

Points to consider

• It’s not necessary for your learner to revise every piece of writing.
• Allow your learner to revise until he is satisfied with the work.
• Your learner needs to feel in control of the revision – he can ask for advice and either accept it or reject it.

Handout 7.8