Writing is one of the most difficult aspects of learning English as a Second Language (ESL). Practicing speaking and reading in the classroom supports the task of learning how to write, which is simply a different way to use the English language. The first attempts at writing for ESL learners are always filled with mistakes, but these mistakes can be very instructive and cause rapid improvements if the teacher provides rapid feedback.

Practice conversational English to increase general fluency. Fluency is based on verbal ability; students can write about the things they can speak about. According to the International TESOL Journal, teaching writing without practicing speaking is ineffective because writing alone does not teach students the nuances of language.

Encourage your students to read. While grammar is important, the most difficult aspect of writing a foreign language is sentence flow and unfamiliarity vocabulary. The more content students encounter in their reading material, the more vocabulary they can use in their writing.

Teach students to use the simplest words possible. William Zinsser, author of the classic book "On Writing Well," says, "the secret of good writing is to strip every sentence to its cleanest components." Demonstrate the concept of simplicity to students, showing them how to choose the shortest words possible, and how to delete words that serve no function.

Ask students to rewrite an article or story. Make sure this is a short assignment and cut it down to a single paragraph if you are teaching beginners. Tell the students to rewrite the piece by changing the names of the characters, the verbs or the adjectives.

Assign a high quantity of writing assignments and give students rapid feedback. Several short assignments are better than fewer long assignments, because ESL learners improve most quickly when they get constant feedback on their writing. Return writing assignments within the next two class days. The sooner students get feedback on their writing, the sooner they can make the necessary improvements.

Prioritize the most important corrections on writing assignments. ESL learners, especially at the lower levels, will make many writing mistakes. Highlight certain writing improvements you want to emphasize in your class rather than correcting every mistake. For instance, correct primarily for proper word usage or sentence structure.

Circle errors on writing assignments. Instead of crossing out mistakes, circle them and put the correct word underneath. This shows students how to improve without the discouragement of seeing portions of their assignment crossed out.