Abstract:
This study is intended to investigate the problems of teaching and learning free writing in English language at the secondary level in the Sultanate of Oman. The study aims at highlighting the difficulties that face learners as well as methods for helping them to get a good mastery and command of producing free writing. The study also emphasizes the adoption of a pupil-centred teaching and learning process taking into consideration the new trend of ELTand the integration of modern technology into teaching free writing. In addition, much emphasis has been placed on grading and integrating the three types of composition (controlled composition- guided composition- free composition). One hundred and eighty learners and fifty teachers were selected randomly to carry out the investigation. Two versions of a questionnaire , an observation and a writing test were selected as data gathering tools. According to the analysis of collected data, secondary school studentsfacemany difficulty in writing English composition. It has been verified that they are weak as relates to the form and content of compositionsthey produce. Moreover, a great number of teachers do not adopt the appropriate techniques for teaching composition. The results of the experiments showed that by makinguse of technology, learners' interest and achievement can be enhanced.the findings of this study would be helpful and beneficial for both teachers and learners.
