The Process vs Product Approach - Nerissa Jarvis

 

The main difference between the product approach and the process approach to teaching writing is that the product approach is a traditional approach, in which students are encouraged to mimic a model text, which is usually presented and analyzed at an early stage. The product approach emphasizes the end product. However, the process approach to writing is more focused on a variety of classroom activities which promote the development of language use: brainstorming, group discussion, re-writing. This approach has a number of stages before the final piece is written. The stages are as follows:

·       Stage1 – Generating ideas

·       Stage 2 – Students extend the ideas into note form

·       Stage 3 – Students organize ideas into mind maps, spider gram, or linear form

·       Stage 4 – Students write the first draft.

·       Stage 5 – Students exchanged their drafts to transition from author to reader.

·       Stage 6 – Students return drafts and improve the piece on feedback

·       Stage 7 – Students write their final draft

This Venn diagram highlights the difference between the process and product approach while linking their similarity which is getting towards the final piece. Both approaches have their place in the writing process. In my opinion, it is best to begin with the process approach where you guide the students in their writing journey. However, after they have gotten the hang of the steps, the teacher can then use the product approach where the students will write with less guidance from the teacher.