Presents a computer-assisted activity that helps students discover the importance of choosing words carefully. With a word processing program, small groups of students prepare creative, fill-in-the-blank challenges in which classmates must replace missing adjectives or verbs. (SM)

There is considerable concern that the majority of adolescents do not develop the competence in writing they need to be successful in school, the workplace, or their personal lives. A common explanation for why youngsters do not write well is that schools do not do a good job of teaching this complex skill. In an effort to identify effective…

Computerized word processing can be a valuable tool for writing instruction because the machines make it easier for students to properly revise and correct their work. Ways that teachers and students can use the machines are described, and problems, such as limited access to computer terminals and the necessity for students to type, are noted. (PP)

Pointing out that teachers and supervisors need to study, analyze, and synthesize diverse issues in the teaching of handwriting, this paper explores several relevant issues. The following issues are discussed: (1) whether handwriting ought to be taught as a separate subject; (2) the conflict between the behaviorism approach--which utilizes precise…

Writing groups can use word processors or microcomputers in many different types of writing activities. Four hour-long sessions at a word processor with the help of a skilled word processing tutor have been found to be sufficient to provide a working knowledge of word processing. When two or three students enrolled in a writing class are assigned…

A study examined questions concerning: (1) how writing was taught and integrated with other learning activities in the Apple Classroom of Tomorrow (ACOT) environment; (2) students' experiences with and attitudes toward word-processing; (3) teachers' experiences and attitudes; and (4) the influences of the computer-based activities on writing…

Describes writing skills software that helps reinforce language building blocks and word processing software that helps students develop as writers. Also included are outlines of five word processing activities; a software directory; a description of a writing instruction project; and discussion of whether computers encourage revision. (MBR)

Collaborative learning in the English classroom actively involves students in learning many useful applications of writing skills for use in future careers. In the work place, for instance, collaboration takes place regularly and group skills are of major importance. Job-related writing involves many forms of collaboration from the start of a…

This report offers a number of specific teaching techniques that research suggests will help 4th- to 12th-grade students in this nation's schools. The report focuses on all students, not just those who display writing difficulties, although this latter group is deservedly the focus of much attention. The premise of this report is that all students…

This practical manual is designed for teachers involved in adult basic education (in particular, teachers of bilingual and adult literacy students) who would like to introduce their students to word processing through the language curriculum. A range of activities linking language and word processing skills is suggested. The tasks can be…

Describes different kinds of student correspondence over the writing center network at a state university. Argues that the interaction between student and text via machine promotes good writing and improved motivation, even when the subject matter is as extracurricular as dating. Includes messages from student to student, student to teacher, and…

Recommends that writing teachers integrate word processing and revision strategies when teaching how to diagnose and correct structural writing problems. Presents exercises employing these methods in a first-year English composition course. Stresses the computer's ability to help students evaluate their writing, encouraging eventual independent…

The nine essays in this collection examine various issues regarding the utilization of computers in the school curriculum, including the selection of objectives, learning activities and appraisal procedures in curriculum development; providing for individual differences among learners; staff development; behaviorism as an emphasis for programmed…

Written from a variety of perspectives, the 13 articles in this journal issue focus on the use of the computer in teaching English. Specific topics discussed in the articles are as follows: the era of the microcomputer, by R. Baird Shuman; pedagogical issues involving computers, by Duane Roen and Margaret Fleming; computer rhetoric at the…

This study was conducted during 2 school years, involving one teacher and one classroom from each of four elementary (grades 1-2) and secondary schools. The study included writing activities on the word processor, videoconferencing, and World Wide Web use. The main data source was a series of videotapes of the above mentioned activities.…