Writing in Foreign Language Contexts

Looking back and highlighting the many ways in which SL and FL learning contexts differ, this collection of papers challenges readers to (re-)consider what the field knows about L2 writing development. Looking forward, the resulting contextualization and expansion of theoretical, empirical, and pedagogical insights is sure to facilitate a more robust understanding of all L2 writing, irrespective of the educational environment, while appropriately recognizing the situatedness and diversity of writing practices in FL settings.

* Heidi Byrnes, Georgetown University. *

Although the predominant focus of the field of L2 writing has long been English writing in English dominant contexts, the number of studies focusing on non-English dominant contexts has been growing steadily. This authoritative volume features some of the most accomplished researchers in those contexts, seizing the momentum to expand the scope of the field and to provide a much needed global perspective. Without doubt, the editor and the contributors to this collection are laying a foundation for further exploration of L2 writing theory, research and instruction--especially in contexts where English is not one of the dominant languages.

* Paul Matsuda, Arizona State University. *

This collection convincingly argues for the need for greater recognition of writing in diverse foreign language contexts. Especially welcome are the focus on programs of research and the consolidation of knowledge and the spirit of inclusiveness regarding perspectives (linguistic, cognitive, and social) and approaches (to research, theory, and teaching).

* Tony Silva, Purdue University. *

What sets the volume apart from other edited collections is the remarkable way in which it brings together studies from different theoretical and methodological orientations without creating a mixed bag of self-contained, disjointed studies. Each chapter stays true to the book’s overall theme of looking back and moving forward as the authors take the reader through an almost narrativelike account of the past history of their academic endeavors and outline current and future developments in their research agendas...Without a doubt, this book will serve as an ideal overview for both established scholars and students who are interested in learning about current issues in the area of FL writing as well as the intersections of SLA and L2 writing.

* Soo Hyon Kim, Michigan State University in SSLA Book Reviews, pp457-459, 2010 *

Two elements guarantee the success of this long-overdue book. The first is the attention this book gives to contexts-from curricula and instruction methods to a recognition of English as the global language for written communication-to explain how EFL learners approach writing in English.The second notable element is the unusual and effective method of compilation, in which multiauthored chapters are intertwined as the authors refer to each others’ chapters, bringing a sense of wholeness to the book…Researchers seeking to conduct studies on FL writing will benefit from studying this impressive overview of the field. Tertiary educators also might view this book as a key resource in developing writing courses specifically for their EFL classes…Manchon’s compilation is a brief but rich and necessary handbook that places FL writing in the forefront of the writing research field-aplace that, as the contributors to this book have amply illustrated, is well earned.

* Idoia Elola, Texas Tech University, The Modern Language Journal 95 (2011) *

This volume is a timely contribution to the field and provides a much needed comprehensive review of this burgeoning area of research in L2 writing...What sets the volume apart from other edited collections is the remarkable way in which it brings together studies from different theoretical and methodological orientations without creating a mixed bag of self-contained, disjointed studies. Each chapter stays true to the book’s overall theme of looking back and moving forward as the authors take the reader through an almost narrativelike account of the past history of their academic endeavors and outline current and future developments in their research agendas...Without a doubt, this book will serve as an ideal overview for both established scholars and students who are interested in learning about current issues in the area of FL writing as well as the intersections of SLA and L2 writing. The book gives readers the rare opportunity to partake in the ruminations of experienced researchers as they refl ect on their previous work in light of new research fi ndings and the growing knowledge base of FL and L2 writing.

* Soo Hyon Kim, Michigan State University, SSLA issue 33