RU
Writing, it will make you a better person.
As the French teacher at our International School of Saint Petersburg I understand the unique challenges our students face. For many, French is not just a third language, but sometimes even a fourth or fifth. It requires a great deal of cognitive gymnastics to switch between languages and traditional methods of teaching phrases and vocabulary often fall short in achieving fluency. This is why I emphasise the importance of writing as a cornerstone of language acquisition. What’s even more relevant is that it’s not only about French, it applies to all languages.
Firstly, writing helps students organise their thoughts in a coherent manner. When they write, they must think about the beginning, middle and end of their sentences and paragraphs. This practice not only improves their linguistic skills but also sharpens their overall cognitive ones. By structuring their thoughts on paper, students learn to communicate more clearly and effectively and also develop the capacity to evaluate information. This skill can be applied across all subjects, helping them in everything from history essays, to IGCSE exams to scientific reports. From my perspective, this skill is particularly valuable in today’s world, where critical thinking and the ability to articulate one’s views clearly are essential.
Moreover, regular writing helps students get better at spelling. Seeing words written down repeatedly reinforces their memory, leading to fewer mistakes and more confidence. Additionally, writing encourages students to use a wider range of vocabulary. While speaking, they might stick to familiar terms, but writing pushes them to explore synonyms and more precise language, enhancing their vocabulary and understanding of word meanings.
Furthermore, writing requires attention to grammar, especially in French. Regular practice helps students internalise rules about verb conjugations, gender agreements and sentence structure, leading to more accurate language use. Writing also activates different parts of the brain than speaking or listening. This helps students remember what they’ve learnt, especially complex language concepts and vocabulary.
What is also important is that writing allows students to express themselves creatively through essays, stories or journals. This makes learning enjoyable and helps them connect personally with the language. Additionally, writing offers a way to practice without the pressure of speaking in front of others. This can be particularly helpful for shy or anxious learners, as seeing their progress in writing boosts their confidence and encourages them to participate more in spoken activities.
Creative forms of French assignments can also include cultural elements, helping students appreciate the richness of the French-speaking world. By researching and writing about French customs, literature and history, they gain a deeper understanding and respect for the language and its cultural context.
In today’s era of short messages and social media, communication often becomes brief and superficial. The written word encourages students to delve deeper into their ideas and express themselves more thoroughly. This practice not only enriches their language skills but also fosters deeper thinking and reflection.
In conclusion, writing is an indispensable tool in our lives and particularly in learning. It goes beyond memorisation of phrases, helping students develop critical thinking skills, enhance their linguistic abilities and gain a deeper cultural appreciation. By embedding writing into our French curriculum, we are preparing our students not only to excel in French but to thrive in all areas of their education.
Miss Sasha, French Teacher
