Understanding Written Expression: Models and Processes
Model Composition of Written Expression
Written expression is the process by which we understand a text. Camps and Cassany explain the various proposed models for the composition of written expression, from proposals that distinguish three linear phases (prewriting, writing, and rewriting) to more sophisticated models of parallel stages. However, the most widespread theoretical model, and the one most applied to education, is that of Flower and Hayes (1980 and 1981).
From the first moment we decide to write a story, cognitive composition processes are activated and start working. Long-term memory (LTM) provides varied information to generate a text suitable to the situation. In fact, LTM has been participating in the very decision of writing a request, reminding us that the instance is the most suitable format for this situation and these intended recipients. More data will provide us with facts about the form of the text, the quickest way to proceed into the composition, etc.
The Act of Writing
The act of writing is composed of three basic processes: planning, drafting, and reviewing; and a control mechanism: the monitor.
- Planning Process: We form a mental representation of what we will write and how we will proceed. This involves:
- Generating: Accessing information in long-term memory.
- Organizing: Classifying data emerging from memory.
- Setting Goals: Defining the purpose of the composition. Imagine a draft text, with all its characteristics, and a method of work.
All these processes can be done mentally or with written support. The ideas generated can be noted in a list, using a brainstorming session; the organization can be visualized as an outline of the text; and the goals can be written down and drawn.
- Drafting Process: This is responsible for transforming this draft, which until now was only a semantic pattern, into a linear and intelligible verbal discourse that respects the rules of the language system, the properties of the text, and socio-cultural conventions. This is a very complex process that must meet several demands in unison. Writers tend to resolve it by writing, reviewing, and partially rescheduling snippets of text, so that the three processes constantly interact during writing.
- Reviewing Process: The author compares the statement made at that time with the pre-planned goals and tweaks it to suit them and improve it. This involves:
- Reading: Reviewing the text.
- Editing: Making amends to everything that is needed.
- Monitor: A control mechanism that governs the operation and participation of the various processes in the overall activity of the composition.
There is no single linear and logical scheme of work. Each person, according to their character, style, and the problem that arises, acts in one way or another. The final product’s quality depends on whether the drafting process has been sufficiently developed and complete, and not on the order that has been followed in each case. These processes develop with age.
Micro-Skills Examination
The specific objectives are micro-skills examination. The overall process of producing written texts is broken down into smaller atoms. Everything a writer should know how to do. Therefore, micro-skills incorporate many techniques or writing strategies that have been proposed by several authors.