Teachers generally accept that students should speak, listen and read in class. The same is not true of writing. Many teachers are wary of devoting precious class time to development of this skill. I believe though that it can be useful practice to have your students write at least a few sentences in almost every lesson. As long as this written work is properly guided and truly short, and is not utterly mechanical, the reading and correction you end up doing will be well worth the time you spend. How could I persuade a doubter?

Properly chosen in-class writing activities have the following advantages:

1. a Good writing tasks get learners using their English to communicate to others and/or to express themselves creatively; either can be very motivating.

2. b Writing gives students time on their own to have and to develop their thoughts.

3. c It can, therefore, create a beneficial time of quiet where all are working simultaneously on a beneficial task.

4. d Written work gives you hard evidence of level and progress. Furthermore, the products of good writing tasks enable you to get to know your students' thoughts. Of course you have to look at the written work to gain this advantage, or listen to students reading it out.

5. e Looking at what students write opens up an avenue for building good relations with individual learners. That is, you can include, where appropriate, conversational replies to what students have written. (e.g. That must have been a real shock to you! I hope you feel better now.)

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