6.11.2012
Anna Jeeves
“Being able to speak English is one thing, knowing how to write it is another”: Young Icelanders’ perceptions of writing in English

The paper reports a qualitative study on perceived relevance of secondary school English studies in Iceland. Interviews with secondary school and university students as well as young people in employment give insight into perceptions of studying English at secondary school. The paper focuses on what value writing in English at school has for students and what changes to classroom material and activities could benefit them. Findings suggest a need for advanced language accuracy and fluency in employment. Participants enjoy writing in English, but mention a lack of autonomy and self-assessment skills.