Cross-Linguistic Transfer of Writing Strategies: Interactions Between Foreign Language and First Language Classrooms - Paperback

by Karen Forbes (Author)

In the context of increasingly multilingual global educational settings, this book provides a timely exploration of the phenomenon of cross-linguistic transfer of writing strategies (in particular, transfer from the foreign language to the first language) and presents a compelling case for a multilingual approach to writing pedagogy. The book presents evidence from a classroom-based intervention study conducted in a secondary school in England on cross-linguistic strategy transfer. It suggests that even beginner or low proficiency foreign language learners can develop effective skills and strategies in the foreign language classroom which can also positively influence writing in other languages, including their first language. This book ultimately encourages more joined-up, cross-curricular, cross-linguistic thinking related to language in schools by exploring the potential for collaboration between languages teachers.

Author Biography

Karen Forbes is a Senior Lecturer in Second Language Education in the Faculty of Education, University of Cambridge, UK. She previously taught modern languages in a secondary school in England and has also taught English as a foreign language in Spain and China. Her current research interests include the development and cross-linguistic transfer of language learning strategies, and the influence of multilingual identity on foreign language learning.