Ok, maybe they learn about the information they are writing, but you can read a book and do that. What are they REALLY learning by writing all those reports. This is not a sarcastic or mean-spirited question--I need the information for research I am doing. I would like answers from educators please, if you are out there.
2007-01-01 09:55:12 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Education & Reference ➔ Teaching
They learn how to present their ideas, knowledge and understanding, and themselves in an organized and thoughtful manner. And in doing so they become more familiar with the subject of study and how it relates to themselves.
2007-01-01 10:00:19 · answer #1 · answered by marklemoore 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
You're right--you can learn about a topic by reading a book.. But writing a report is different. Not only do students have to find information from multiple sources, but they need to deconstruct these ideas and put them back together in a new way.
Writing a report is a chance for students to integrate many different skills. First, students have to find information from different sources and choose which information is important. Then, they have to paraphrase information, or put ideas into their own words. This alone is challenging! Many teachers require students to also cite their sources, which gives them the chance to see where information comes from and take detailed bibliographical information.
Once students have collected details, they need to come up with some main ideas. What do these details add up to? What are the big ideas? This is synthesis, in which students are putting together ideas in a totally new way.
Finally, there is the writing aspect. Students need to learn how to create an interesting beginning, how to write a clear thesis statement, and how to create transitions within and between paragraphs. Last but not least, they need to create a conclusion that sums up the main ideas.
2007-01-01 12:59:47 · answer #2 · answered by snowberry 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It is an important skill for someone to be able to organize their thoughts in a clear and consise manner and put it down on paper, with proper punctuation, spelling and grammar.
2007-01-01 10:05:38 · answer #3 · answered by barksabit 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Research skills too.
2007-01-01 10:33:54 · answer #4 · answered by baldisbeautiful 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋