Why Assign WID Tasks?

Without doubt, the single most important reason for assigning writing tasks in disciplinary courses is to introduce students to the thinking and writing of that discipline. Even though students read disciplinary texts and learn course material, until they practice the language use of the discipline through writing, they are less likely to learn that language thoroughly. In addition, teachers cite other specific advantages of WID tasks, large and small. Such writing helps students to:

• integrate and analyze course content
• provide a field-wide context to course material
• practice thinking skills relevant to analyses in the discipline
• practice professional communication
• prepare for a range of careers in the field