Contends that by using nonfiction writing as a daily developmental process, a child finds a predictable, nurturing, and accepting environment which helps teachers understand their students, helps children learn, and promotes acceptance of both the student and the child. (MS)

Examined the number and types of classroom writing experiences in which elementary teachers and children in grades one, three, and five were engaged. Two major influences on instructional practices also were analyzed: teachers' perceptions of writing instruction and textbook guidelines. (DST)

Introduces Sustained Spontaneous Writing (SSW), a strategy which encourages young writers by providing a classroom environment that fosters writing habits and by having teachers model writing behaviors expected from students. Presents background information and practical suggestions for implementing SSW and ensuring its success in the daily…

Highlights ways parents can support the development of writing at home through engaging activities. Offers suggestions including: (1) writing as an extension of imagination; (2) pictures and words; (3) expanding drawing; (4) entering the social world; and (5) everyday activities as sources of ideas. Asserts that forming a literacy club will help…

The writings collected in these two journal issues are by adult literacy students at varying levels of writing and language skills. Most of the writings are in English, however, some are in Spanish, and some of the writings written in English are by non-native English-speakers. The writings take the form of poems, personal narratives, and…

This is the third National Assessment report on the writing of children aged 9, 13, and 17, and young adults. The three exercises used in the writing assessment were: Age 9: The Forest Fire Exercise; Age 13: The Famous Person Exercise; and Age 17: The Famous Person Exercise. An exercise for young adults (Adults: The Commissioner Stroud Letter)…