Discusses some of the pitfalls inherent to writing news headlines. Distinguishes between feature and editorial headlines and news headlines. (HTH)

Defines elucidation as writing to teach and inform "all" about a complex sequence or process so that even a novice can complete the process without problems. Provides a model for writing description/instruction, using elucidation in the introduction, conclusion, and body of the essay. (HTH)

Notes that, contrary to what is widely thought to be true, research studies exist which lend clear-cut support to the teaching of grammar as a means of improving writing. Describes one such study. Suggests that the place of instruction in grammar in the curriculum must be reconsidered. (RS)

Argues that scientific style manuals provide much sound advice, but also pass along advice at odds with recently published literature regarding how scientists actually conduct research and write up their findings. Presents a revised model for the scientific article based on information in recently published research on communication in science.…

Presents and explains a model for an executive summary which presents correct written information to a business decision maker in an appropriate, readable, useful form. (SR)

Outlines how technical communicators can use the five "W" questions approach--a core element of journalism--in the audience analysis phase of designing information to help ensure that the information meets the audience's needs. (SR)

Maintains that the author's authentic voice as a writer is "constructed more than it is gushed." Describes how, when the author tinkers with words, when he shifts, cuts, changes, and arranges them to achieve certain effects, it isn't the writing only that he crafts: he is also crafting an identity. Notes how this applies to teaching…

Explores thoughts about what teachers owe young writers in helping them learn to spell. Considers the variety of ideas in the educational community on this topic, discussing briefly invented spelling, spelling in the writing process, word lists, and spelling patterns. (SR)

Presents and discusses a speller's bill of rights, consisting of nine items to guide a spelling curriculum and ensure that children leave elementary school able to express themselves strongly and effectively in writing, including the ability to ensure that words in their writing are spelled appropriately without spending hours on proofreading. (SR)

Studies the influences of modeling and social feedback on the acquisition of writing revision with 72 college students. Social feedback during enactive performance assisted learners from all modeling groups in acquiring writing and self-regulatory skills. (Contains 25 references and 3 tables.) (GCP)

In England, 14 elementary teachers in 7 schools collaborated on research to develop children's reflective writing by observing each other and cooperatively evaluating data. Techniques such as modeling, demonstrating text features, and focusing group discussion increased children's metacognitive awareness of good writing and helped them gain…

Provides six tips for teachers to help them become helpful writing coaches to their students. (MG)

Efforts to improve the written communication skills of accounting and other business students at Columbus College (Georgia) include a required business writing course, required writing assignments in business and accounting courses, and use of a writing specialist as a consultant for students and faculty. (JOW)

Advocates writing in-depth captions for yearbooks, including the five W's (who, what, when, where, and why) and one H (how). (SR)

Reprints a 1986 article from this journal which discusses the mission and goals of the Center for the Study of Writing. Updates the article with an Afterword commenting on the earlier piece. (SR)