In this introduction we provide an overview of the intended contribution of the volume to TBLT theory and research. It starts from the perspective that TBLT-oriented theoretical framing and explicitly theorized empirical research endeavours have, in general, taken oral communication as their main focus. This focus has prevented the construct of ‘task’ from attaining the kind of status that it deserves in the field of applied language studies. Based on that belief, this introductory chapter positions the contributions in the volume as showcasing diverse facets of the complex phenomenon of writing. It foreshadows how including a focus on L2 writing might influence theory and research into TBLT and, beyond that, contribute to fostering language development in a TBLT environment. Concluding with a synthesis of the volume’s individual contributions, the chapter creates an encompassing context for the diverse treatments of task and writing offered in the volume’s individual studies.
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