Definition of Writing
According to Klein (1985), writing is the ability to put pen and paper to express ideas through symbols. This way, representations on the paper will have meaning and content that could be communicated to other people by the writer.
The definition, which seems to have of most relevance to this study is the one involving creative writing. This kind of writing seems to emphasize the role of the discovery of self, in some ways akin to the discovery of meaning, in process writing. It is quite different from that which emphasizes audience, writer and text because it is focused more on getting ideas written down on paper, without burdening oneself especially with the thought of who is going to read the final product of one’s writing. It is also one which is closest in definition to writing done by children, which is focused more towards the expression of oneself, without much regard to how the reader would view the writing product or text.
Writing Techniques
Writing is an important form of communication. Good writers use different writing techniques to fit their purpose for writing. To be a good writer, you must master each of the following writing techniques.
1. Description
Through description, a writer helps the reader use the senses of feeling, seeing, hearing, smelling, and tasting to experience what the writer experiences. Description helps the reader more clearly understand the people, places, and things about which the writer is writing. It is the most common form of writing. You will find descriptive writing in newspapers, magazines, books, and most other forms of written communication.
2. Exposition
Through exposition, a writer informs, explains, and clarifies his/her ideas and thoughts. Exposition goes beyond description to help the reader understand with greater clarity and depth the ideas and thoughts of the writer. Expository writing, like descriptive writing, is commonly found in newspapers, magazines, books, and most other forms of written communication.
3. Narration
Through narration, a writer tells a story. A story has characters, a setting, a time, a problem, attempts at solving the problem, and a solution to the problem. Bedtime stories are examples of short stories while novels are examples of long stories. The scripts written for movies and plays are further examples of narrative writing.
4. Persuasion
Through persuasion, a writer tries to change a reader's point of view on a topic, subject, or position. The writer presents facts and opinions to get the reader to understand why something is right, wrong, or in between. Editorials, letters to the editor in newspapers and magazines, and the text for a political speech are examples of persuasive writing.
5. Comparison and Contrast
Through comparison and contrast, a writer points out the similarities and differences about a topic. Comparison is used to show what is alike or in common. Contrast is used to show what is not alike or not in common. Describing living conditions in 1900 and living conditions today would allow for much comparison and contrast.
By using the writing technique that fits your purpose, you will be able to communicate your ideas effectively.
Factors That Affect Writing Performance Of Language Students
1) Linguistic factor (language transfer or interference, overgeneralization)
2) Affective factor( motivation, anxiety and the lack of self confidence)
3) Technological factor ( SMS; logs...etc)
4) learning strategies (translation)
Problem of Writing
There are some problem which influence in writing.
1) Grammatical writing problems: recognize and fix grammatical errors
2) Stylistic writing problems: make your writing clear and effective
3) Word-use writing problems: cut down on confusing jargon, and stop using the wrong words
4) Punctuation problems: learn how to use punctuation correctly.
5) Social networking writing problems: resist the debilitating influences Web 2.0 has on writers
The Five Steps of The Writing Process
STEP 1: PREWRITING (THINK)
• Decide on a topic to write about.
• Consider who will read or listen to your written work.
• Brainstorm ideas about the subject.
• List places where you can research information.
• Do your research.
STEP 2: DRAFTING (WRITE)
• Put the information you researched into your own words.
• Write sentences and paragraphs even if they are not perfect.
• Read what you have written and judge if it says what you mean.
• Show it to others and ask for suggestions.
STEP 3: REVISING (MAKE IT BETTER)
• Read what you have written again.
• Think about what others said about it.
• Rearrange words or sentences.
• Take out or add parts.
• Replace overused or unclear words.
• Read your writing aloud to be sure it flows smoothly.
STEP 4: PROOF READING (MAKE IT CORRECT)
• Be sure all sentences are complete.
• Correct spelling, capitalization, and punctuation.
• Change words that are not used correctly.
• Have someone check your work.
• Recopy it correctly and neatly.
STEP 5: PUBLISHING (SHARE THE FINISHED PRODUCT)
• Read your writing aloud to a group.
• Create a book of your work.
• Send a copy to a friend or relative.
• Put your writing on display.
• Illustrate, perform, or set your creation to music.
• Congratulate yourself on a job well done!
