Research in secondary school composition instruction indicates that (1) emphasis on writing for the teacher-as-examiner is prevalent, (2) prewriting activities are limited, (3) there is little discussion of approaches to the topic or what information should be included, and (4) activities to help students while they are writing are almost…

In an attempt to serve underprepared students--students who are beginners in writing, reading, and logical thinking skills--the English department at Keene State College in New Hampshire has been evolving a developmental English composition course designed to enable these students to participate effectively in their subsequent general education…