Genre-based academic literacy instruction

This chapter focuses on genre-based instruction as the central pedagogical approach in academic literacy-oriented EAP. It discusses various definitions of genre and the characteristics of genre-based academic literacy pedagogy, practical applications and the relevance of existing genre theory for digital academic contexts. Genre-based pedagogy supports students in developing genre awareness through analysing the communicative purposes and structural and linguistic features of genres in exemplar texts. The chapter critiques the limited research on the implementation of genre approaches and teaching practices. It examines the challenges and opportunities brought by digital genres, arguing that traditional genre theory remains applicable but requires extension to include the affordances of digital media. Drawing on an example from Engineering, the chapter illustrates how genre-based instruction can be designed and delivered through collaboration with subject lecturers. The discussion concludes by reaffirming that integrating digital genres into genre-based academic literacy instruction is both necessary and manageable. The role of EAP practitioners in teaching these genres remains largely consistent, as digital genres continue to demand a focus on language and structure.