Cooperative learning and second language acquisition in first-year composition: Opportunities for authentic communication among English language learners

Abstract

Mason discusses cooperative learning and second language acquisition in first year composition classes. In her ESL first-year composition classroom, cooperative learning takes many forms, including in-class cooperative structures that provide students with opportunities to share ideas and opinions in pairs or in teams of four to five. In addition, at the beginning of their composing processes, she and her students participate in writing online proposals and in responding to one another's ideas.