A correction code is used to show learners what kind of mistakes they have made in written work.

A selection of different coloured pens

The teacher underlines each mistake and writes a symbol or an abbreviation next to it, showing the kind of mistake.

Example
‘We made our homework' - WW (wrong word).

In the classroom

Typical codes include WO (word order); WW (wrong word); T (tense); and P (punctuation). Teachers use correction codes to develop the learners' ability to correct and edit their own work, as well as making learning from errors more memorable.  Correction codes need to be adjusted to level and also to the degree of learner self-correction expected. For example, for higher level learners who have been editing their own work for some time the teacher can indicate that there is a mistake in a line, and not say where or what kind.

Further links:

https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/article/error-correction

https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/article/error-correction-1

https://www.teachingenglish.org.uk/article/error-correction-2

Research and insight

Browse fascinating case studies, research papers, publications and books by researchers and ELT experts from around the world.

See our publications, research and insight