Previous research findings suggest that multiple factors contribute to writer's block and that blocking may occur at any part of the writing process. The aim of this study was to investigate different causes of blocking and discover the most effective solutions for writers. 146 writers completed an online, mixed-method survey about their…

As a consequence of engaging almost exclusively in collaborative research throughout my career, my publications are rarely single authored. The goals of this article are to share with readers my experiences related to publishing in general and to collaborative writing specifically, and to provide counsel and caveats based on these experiences. The…

This article outlines a rational for responsive, differentiated writing instruction that targets students' identified needs with respect to various dimensions of the writing process. Discussed is a cycle that requires ongoing assessment, instructional decision-making, responsive, differentiated instruction, guided practice, and assessment.…

Whether writing a blog entry or a high-stakes test essay, fiction or nonfiction, short story or argumentation, students need to know certain things in order to write effectively. In 10 Things Every Writer Needs to Know, Jeff Anderson focuses on developing the concepts and application of ten essential aspects of good writing--motion, models, focus,…

The authors suggest using scripting as a strategy to mentor and enhance author's voice in writing. Through gradual release, students use authentic literature as a model for writing with voice. The authors also propose possible extensions for independent practice, integration across content areas, and tips for evaluation.

Presents an interview with teacher, "theorist of writing, accomplished rhetorician, and prolific author" Gloria Anzaldua. Comments on going beyond dichotomies of all kinds--allowing for nonbinary identity, for new states of "mestiza" consciousness, and for multiple writing strategies. Addresses her prior experiences with and…

Describes the writing process of a teacher/writer in the creation of a 5-novel series portraying relations between men and women over a 175-year period in which women struggle to control their own lives. (PRA)

Explores (from the point of view of the writer, a children's author) one aspect of learning about language that is present in the picture books he writes: the relation between sound and sense. (SR)

Designed for teachers, this collection of essays describes successful, practical, classroom-tested ideas for use with students of all ages. The collection presents contributions from 18 teaching creative writers who describe their single best writing assignment that never fails to inspire their students to tell stories, write autobiographical…

The 2007 meeting of the English Think Tank published here represents a sample of the English Think Tank V presentations. In reading these papers one is struck by the imagination and expertise possessed by so many members in the field. The paper topics fall roughly into four categories--assessment, diversity, literacy, and technology. This…

A qualitative study explored the nature of the writing process for graduate students. Research questions were what students' perceptions of the writing process is; whether students think learning to write better has value in their careers; how graduate students learn the writing process; and in what ways a course in writing for publication is…