Diseño; procesos y perspectivas de un curso de redacción en inglés

Abstract

This paper describes the construction of a writing course in English; with the purpose of exploring the fit between current approaches to the teaching of languages and writing on the one hand; and on the other; the necessary considerations of students; teachers and the institution; all of which comprise a specific context for the course. The course was established in the spring semester of 1995; as part of the general English program in the Center for Foreign Language Teaching (Centro de Enseñanza de Lenguas Extranjeras); of the UNAM. The background for the establishment of the course is presented; followed by a discussion of the theoretical and methodological underpinnings of the course design. Implications for the English program as a whole are discussed. Some students ’ quotes; a few of the many compiled over five semesters; are included in the text; as they are to a certain degree representative of the general response of the students and offer an essential perspective for the project. Reflections and areas for investigation that have arisen as a result of the course; and a vision for its future; conclude the article.