Why 'It's Good' Isn't Good Enough
The Three-Step Training Protocol
Teach the Feedback Language
Give students explicit phrases: 'I really liked how you...' 'One thing that could be clearer is...' 'Have you considered...?' 'I noticed you used [X] — did you mean [Y]?' Practice these as sentence starters.
Model With Examples
Show a sample student text on the board. Demonstrate your own feedback process aloud: what you notice first, what matters most, how you phrase suggestions. Then do one together before they try independently.
Use a Feedback Checklist
Give students a structured checklist: 'Does the text answer the question? Is there a clear main idea? Are there any grammar patterns that repeat incorrectly? What's the best sentence?' Checklists prevent vague 'it's good' responses.
Teacher Tip
“Use 'Stars and Wishes' instead: students identify 2 stars (specific things the writer did well) and 1 wish (one specific thing they'd like the writer to improve next time). The language is gentler ('I wish the ending had more detail' vs. 'Your ending is weak') and the ratio naturally emphasizes strengths while still providing actionable improvement targets.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I train ESL students to give peer feedback?
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Start by teaching feedback language explicitly (sentence starters for praise and constructive criticism). Model the process with a sample text. Use structured checklists to guide what students look for. Practice with low-stakes tasks before using peer feedback for graded work.
At what level can students do peer feedback?
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B1+ is typically the minimum. Below B1, students lack the metalanguage to discuss writing quality. At B1, use simple checklists. At B2+, students can provide nuanced feedback on coherence, vocabulary choice, and argumentative structure.
What if students are too kind or too harsh?
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Require specificity. 'It's good' is not accepted as a star — they must cite a specific sentence or technique. 'It's bad' is not accepted as a wish — they must suggest a specific improvement. Training students to be specific naturally moderates both excessive praise and harshness.