The teaching of Malay essay writing based on an authentic approach

Abstract

In this paper, the authors discuss the principles and models of authentic learning, which have been proposed by several leading experts in the field of authentic learning. Among the principles, authentic learning materials, authentic assessment, and teaching and learning activities based on the real world are the core principles shared by most models. In particular, the authors propose an authentic learning model that will be used for the essay teaching process in the classroom consisting of six important principles, namely actual (hands-on) learning materials, easily accessible learning sources that are realistic and tangible, emphasis on community input, outdoor activities, and freedom for students to express their views and interpretations, and authentic assignments. Using these principles, the authors propose a practical implementation of the teaching and learning activities based on this approach for the teaching of essay writing. With such proposed activities, teachers and instructors will be able to plan and carry out their essay writing classes more effectively through which their students will learn more meaningfully.