Enhancing Communicative Ability in an Advanced Reading and Writing course at a Tertiary Institution in Hong Kong

This presentation explores a multifaceted approach to developing communicative ability in advanced reading and writing, specifically for feature/opinion articles. The study involved approximately 400 students in a Hong Kong tertiary institution. The materials aimed to equip students with skills to produce engaging and impactful written pieces.
The instructional materials incorporated authentic texts (including novels, poems, song lyrics) for diverse writing styles and analysis. Sample essays with annotations helped students identify effective techniques and pitfalls to avoid. Students were allowed to use tools like ChatGPT to expand vocabulary and incorporate literary devices, enhancing writing quality.
Analysis of student topics revealed a range of interests, reflecting their ability to articulate opinions on socio-cultural issues. These materials encouraged critical thinking and student agency in topic selection.
The presentation will explore the impact of these materials on students' communicative ability, evidenced by the quality and engagement of their articles.