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A genre-based approach
What are Genres? Languages is used for a variety of purposes such as explaining phenomenon, arguing a position, giving instruction or recounting an event. These purposes can be identified as genres. Genres are seen as social practices that are dynamic and evolving ways of doing things through language. Learning genres plays a fundamental role in language development as theories contest that engagement with creating and comprehending meaning from within the context of texts can foster effective language learning (Derewianka, 2003). Genre-based approaches have attempted to expand traditional conceptions of language writing by focusing on the importance of purpose as an individual’s reason for using language (Myskow & Gordon, 2010). The Genre theory is:
In The Australian curriculum: English (ACARA 2012), a range of genres which are described as text types are appropriate and relevant are made available to learners according to their stage of schooling. For example, Year 3 students are encouraged to engage with a wide range of genres such as narratives, procedures, reports, reviews, poetry and expositions |
Derewianka, B. (2012). Knowledge about language in the Australian Curriculum: English, Australian Journal of Language and Literacy, 35 (2), 127-146.
Derewianka, B (2003). Trends and Issues in Genre-Based Approaches, RELC Journal, 34(2), 134-154.
Myskow, G., & Gordon, K. (2010). A focus on purpose: using a genre approach in an EFL writing class, ELT journal, 64(3), 283-292.