6 Strategies for Effective Writing Feedback in ELT

As a language teacher, I have observed how giving feedback to multilingual learners of English (MLEs) on their writing is key to offering them more opportunities to progress in specific areas, such as content, fluency, and vocabulary range. However, providing writing feedback tends to be time-consuming and, despite our best efforts, learners often continue to repeatedly make the same mistakes. In this regard, I have used different strategies for providing feedback to my learners’ written work. Here are six strategies for providing feedback on MLEs’ writing.

1. Create a Conducive Learning Environment

Create a safe and respectful environment where learners feel comfortable giving and receiving feedback in the writing class. Set clear expectations for feedback sessions to ensure respect and constructive dialogue. Encourage reflecting on errors with peers so MLEs aren’t afraid to take risks with language.

Example
Learners write a paragraph about a traditional dish from their culture for a descriptive writing task. They share their composition in a peer review session.

Example Feedback
Peer: “I liked… (how you described the ingredients and flavors of kimchi). Next time you can add… (what you like most about it).”

2. Give Clear and Specific Feedback

Provide precise feedback on the learner’s written work by addressing specific areas needing improvement rather than general comments, like "good job" or "needs work." This will give learners explicit ideas and areas they need to focus on to continue working and observing their progress.

Example
Learners write a short composition about an important celebration they have in their culture or community.

Example Feedback
"Great job describing Chinese New Year! You mentioned important details about the family meal, red envelopes, and dragon dances. Next time, try to include how the holiday makes you feel or what you like most about it."

3. Offer Precise Feedback on Language Use

Provide learners with examples of correct usage and explain why a particular sentence or phrase is incorrect.

Example
Have learners work in pairs to correct the errors and discuss why they are incorrect. Then create a worksheet with these common errors from students' writing.

Example Feedback
"In this paragraph, your main point is unclear. Can you add a topic sentence to clarify your argument?" (specific suggestion) or "This sentence is a fragment. Try combining it with the previous sentence for clarity." (Grammar correction).

4. Use Various Modes of Feedback

Combine written comments with oral explanations to ensure clarity—and because different learners learn differently. Also, use diagrams, charts, or other visual aids to explain complex concepts when multiple students are having similar issues. This will help learners have diverse options and input to improve their compositions.

Example
Have learners write a descriptive paragraph about a special holiday, including details about how it is celebrated, why it is important, and what people enjoy most about it.

Example Feedback
“In your text, your description of your special holiday is very specific and informative. Check my feedback on the next link to check a voice recording with more details.”

5. Use Positive Reinforcement

Highlight learners’ strengths by acknowledging what they have done well to boost their confidence and motivate them. Always start and end with positive feedback. Also encourage them to write about their cultural experiences and how their multilingualism is a strength.

Example
Ask students to keep a journal where they note down positive feedback they receive. Review these journals, periodically, and discuss how they can build on their strengths.

Example Feedback
"You've made great progress with your verb tenses!"

6. Employ a Variety of Rubrics and Checklists

Provide clear rubrics and checklists that outline expectations and criteria for writing tasks. This helps learners understand what is required and self-assess their work.

Example
Learners write a travel blog post about a real or imaginary place. They need to describe the destination's attractions, culture, and food and include personal experiences and recommendations.

Example Checklist

☑ Varies vocabulary

☑ Uses appropriate tone

☑ Uses vivid details and engaging language

☑ Writing is well-structured with clear introduction, body, and conclusion

☑ Writing offers unique perspectives or insights

Effective feedback is a fundamental practice in writing instruction, and specific and actionable feedback delivery is necessary with all students, and perhaps especially with MLEs, who might not have the linguistic or cultural proficiency to understand less direct feedback. By considering these strategies, teachers can provide MLEs with effective and constructive feedback that supports their development as confident and competent writers in English.