On the disciplinary identity of second language writing

The disciplinary status of second language writing has important consequences for second language writing specialists but there has not been a clear and shared conception of the nature of disciplinarity and what it means to be a “field” or “discipline.” This article offers definitions of key terms that are important in continuing the discussion of disciplinarity, and makes the distinction between forms and levels of disciplinarity. It then explains why second language writing is not a discipline, and explains why it should not become one. It concludes by offering ways of improving the institutional status of second language writing that can help enhance the standing of the field and those who are associated with it.