• Teens are more likely to complete writing assignments and write well if they see themselves as writers.
The editors of a special issue of the Journal of Second Language Writing on adolescent second-language learners published in 2011 explained that identity formation plays a major role in adolescence and can greatly influence teenagers’ interest in academics. The editors said that making progress in writing may seem impossible to teenagers who haven’t yet figured out who they are. If adolescents don’t see themselves as writers, they groan when I announce a writing assignment, and some do not finish it.
But increasingly, as my students have met authors and received positive responses to their writing from me, they have begun to see themselves as writers and feel capable of taking on writing challenges. No matter how well-designed a writing lesson is, it won’t fly with teens if they feel that having to write puts them way outside their comfort zone.