Genre Theories and Second Language Writing: Development, Trends and Tensions

This article reviews literature on genre theory and second language (L2) writing. Specifically, the application of genre theory in L2 writing classrooms and how genre theory together with other themes in the field of second language acquisition contribute to L2 writing development are discussed. Genre has emerged as an important concept in L2 writing studies because it helps teachers and learners to identify socially recognized ways of using language. Through different schools and theories, genre has become a formidable strategy that helps writers learn academic writing conventions. Despite the affordances, a major criticism of genre theory is its tendency to hinder creativity and agency in the classroom and strengthen dominant and privileged discourses. This article concludes with a discussion on genre innovation and studies that underscore the need for flexibility and innovation when developing genre-based pedagogies for classrooms. Despite the challenges, genre remains a crucial theory in L2 writing studies.