Second Language Writing Theory and Second Language Writing Instruction in Iran: A Mismatched Couple?

The present study describes an attempt to investigate the extent to which second language writing theories are appropriately applied in writing classes held in Iran. To do this, three different advanced writing classes were carefully observed for one session, and their instructors were interviewed when classes finished. The results showed that although writing instructors were fairly familiar with most of the current theories of second language writing, these theories were not put into practice, and a traditional, grammar-is-prime position dominated the classes. However, because of the small sample size, caution must be applied, as the findings might not be transferable to other classes. So, some cross-country research needs to be done in order to determine whether second language writing theories in Iran are effectively used in writing classes or not

Keywords:

sample , second language writing , second language writing theory