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8 Questions Around ELT Writing and Publishing

1.) When a publisher is looking for a writer to hire What kind of writing profile do they want to see?

There’s no single model that meets the demands of each project, however there are some key qualities that every ELT writers must have. Ability to follow a written plan and meet a deadline are vital as is the willingness to collaborate and be directed by the editors.

It’s essential to have the necessary experience instructing the intended users. If you’re considering creating business English materials or a coursebook to be used in the Italian secondary school market, you must be aware of the kind of materials and method that works for both students and teachers A sense of what is likely to inspire and engage learners in the form of input materials (e.g. images, texts, subjects) as well as output material (activities/tasks) and the knowledge of what issues they’re likely to run into (and what they can do to overcome these).

You’ll need to have a good understanding in English the grammar as well as ELT methodology (including any specifics to the field that you’re writing about) This may seem like an easy task however it’s not always the case.

Innovation and creativity are also desired. Based on the type of project it is sometimes necessary to hire those who follow a given brief to the letter, however frequently, we’re seeking the ability to follow the instructions and take it to the next level, to add an extra “something” that will entice learners and make the piece stand out from the rest. It’s also crucial to be flexible because you can’t do perfect the first time every time, which is why you have be prepared to listen to feedback and respond to it. It’s common to undergo three or four draft stages before the final draft is accepted.

Finally, when you write your class or self-study materials, keep in mind that you’re not writing just for your personal teaching environment. Teachers and students work in various contexts; you have to be capable of putting yourself in their shoes and ensure that your content is suitable for them all. It shouldn’t depend on the method you use in your classroom to be effective.

2.) For those who want for a career as an ELT writer, what’s the best method to begin?

The process of commissioning a large piece of work comes with inherent risks. Most projects are run on a very tight timeframe, which is why publishers are prone to be cautious and stick with writers they have worked with that have been proven and tried and. However, at OUP we always seek out and encouraging writers with new ideas.

Don’t expect an ELT publisher to make a way towards your door. They most likely won’t unless you already have an established experience. Be proactive. Make contact with any contacts you’ve made in the ELT publishing industry. Attend events and conferences Contact people at stand of publishers and let them know you’re interested. Find the names of the editors who commission and contact them.

Start with a small amount and work on small, fee-paying tasks – for instance, writing photocopyable exercises for a book of teacher’s or worksheets for the video. If you show that you can fulfill the requirements and provide quality materials on time You’ll have earned an image and will more likely to receive additional tasks.

3.) Do you need to create a complete coursebook prior to submitting your proposal?

Absolutely not. Nowadays, it’s quite uncommon for an unrequest request for a full coursebook to be approved. This is due to the fact that most ELT publishers design their core publications in the three to five years prior (or even) and then commission according to the schedule. If you do have an idea you believe is worthy of being considered, especially in specific areas such as ESP or teacher education It’s certainly worth submitting your idea to multiple publishers. The majority of editors have heard of “the one who got away’ – a project that was rejected by one publisher but adopted by another and then became extremely popular.

4.) Do you have a specific shape a proposal should have and what number of words should it contain?

Quality is more important than quantity, particularly at the beginning. It’s an excellent idea to provide a brief outline of your thoughts prior to making a formal proposal to see the extent of interest for the type of project that you’re thinking about before spending time making a huge amount of content. If it leads to the creation of a more comprehensive proposal, it should comprise the following: a cover letter and your CV, along with a concise description of the project (what it’s about and who is it for, the levels it covers, the components it requires to be able to meet, etc. ) and a thorough rationale (reasons for the proposal and the fundamental principles behind the proposal, the method or approach, important characteristics, possible market opportunities) as well as a sample materials (ideally an entire syllabus, and three or more chapters according to the length). A sample is essential as you must demonstrate you are able to write.

5) Everybody is familiar with coursebooks, but what are the other types of writing do publishers have commissions for?

A wide range of products. Examples of this are teacher’s books and workbooks, along with items like photocopier-friendly activities to complement classroom materials video worksheets, exams based on courses further activities to develop skills and teacher development materials and tools for managing the classroom (e.g. lesson planners, CEFR mapping documents). Publishers are also developing an ever-expanding array of materials that can be delivered online and used.

6) What are the specific skills an aspiring writer require? Do you need to be aware what platforms are available online?

It’s certainly beneficial to be aware of and a connection to the internet and online platforms, as well as digital content in general. Editing and writing for digital delivery poses various challenges as compared to print material, while the end user experience is completely different. The creation of content typically requires using templates that must be written into, using their specific guidelines, and the content itself must function on various devices or platforms. The ability, or the willingness to learn is the most important factor. However, the most crucial attribute for writers is the ability to create high quality content that fulfills its educational goals, regardless of the medium through which it is delivered.

7) How do writers typically paid? i.e. per word, per the hour, per book, etc. ?

In general, authors receive an income from the sales of workbooks and coursebooks in addition to a charge for other types of materials. The term “royalties” refers to a proportion of the total price a publisher gets for the book on any given market. This isn’t necessarily identical to the catalogue price or the price of the cover. The rates for royalty vary and are not guaranteed receiving higher than 10% be aware that the amount will be less when the book in which you get royalty does not include components that were that you did not write (e.g. video or online practice). If you’re offered the choice of a royalty or fee, take your time whether there are pros and cons in both. In the case of certain items like teacher’s guides that are given away to help promote adoption or coursebooks. It’s generally preferential to pay fees – you receive the money in advance instead of having to wait to receive it. Also, the your earnings are not contingent on sales results. In contrast the coursebook or workbook that remains in print for a lengthy period of time could make a significant contribution to your earnings over a period of years. They can be much more than a single cost – however, be aware that there is no guarantee.

8.) A question I’d want to ask following the acquisition of writing for about five years: How can writers get information about opportunities for employment? There are writing websites that offer freelance work which provide uninteresting or low-paying work, or even submitting proposals for courses to major publishers, however, how can I locate work for content writers that falls between the two extremes?

This is an excellent question. The basic answer is that good networking – it’s about knowing who you are able to connect with, or someone who knows you. It is important to be proactive. Make yourself known, make use of your contacts, send emails to people on a regular basis and remind them that you’re accessible. If you’ve had previous experience and have a track record, don’t hesitate to display your accomplishments. The evidence that you’ve written quality material that is a success can help you offer to be selected for a different project.

You’re more likely to be a problem solver if you approach the problem this way. At any given moment the majority of established writers will be booked for months, and are not available. If a publication requires writers on a brief notice, which is becoming more frequent this is the situation, it can be difficult to locate an individual with the time. If you’re regularly posting your availability, it is more likely that you will receive a phone call. If you’re able to be flexible and adhere to strict deadlines, the better.