Presented are tips for writing effectively about geographical issues in popular publications. Geographers should present ideas clearly and logically, write lively summaries of geographical research, include people in the article, use humor, and use the best forms of graphic presentation. (RM)

Presented are generic structures, called goal and problem/solution frames, for psychologically-based historical explanations. Although intended primarily to help authors write a history that can be easily understood and remembered, the frames can also be used by teachers to organize classroom presentations and by students for textbook study. (RM)

This paper presents 10 techniques for tutoring college-level writing students on word processors. Good teaching and tutoring techniques enable writers rather than simply demand compliance. A good technique: must not rely on a fancy word processing program; will take advantage of the basic word processing functions; will ask that the writer do…

The activity book is designed to help children learn that writing messages and stories will help them see the value of learning to spell. The activity book's program is based on the ideas that accurate spelling contributes to the clarity of written messages; spelling accuracy shows attention to detail, sending a positive message to teachers and…

A paper describes a project in which a writing center created a Web site using digital video (DV) along with essay texts, scenario notes, and a Web-based response exercise, in order to better prepare writing tutor apprentices for a range of ethical and pedagogical dilemmas which might occur. The paper begins by discussing reasons for the project…

Arguing that the ability to write effectively hinges upon having an adequate vocabulary, this digest explores some of the ways vocabulary influences writing ability, and how teachers can use vocabulary development specifically to improve writing skills. The digest suggests that the breadth and depth of a student's vocabulary will have a direct…

Describes one method of introducing journal writing to a junior high school class and offers a number of journal writing assignments. (MM)

Discusses the problems that usually plague high school yearbook writing. Offers 12 rules of style that can help improve feature and news writing in yearbooks. (HTH)

Examines the perspective necessary for student sports writers and some problems with high school sports reporting. Discusses five basic characteristics of news and how these can be applied for discriminant sports writing. (HTH)

Shows how photography and photographic processes can be used as a metaphor for describing writing and writing processes and, thus, can be a useful teaching tool. Discusses subject, focus, arrangement, and style. Describes how a writing teacher can use all this as a means of illustrating various aspects of the writing process. (SR)

Presents three brief articles written by teachers that 1) describe a collection of approaches that utilize newspapers and magazines as the "excellent teaching tools they are"; (2) plunge students into critical analysis through the use of advertisements in magazines; (3) present ideas on how to teach students to create writing prompts…

Describes a four- to six-week project for high school sophomores in which students create pamphlets and in the process learn basic research skills and practice several elements of the research paper. (SR)

Describes several ways in which the newspaper is a useful resource for teaching reading skills and for allowing students to model just about all types of writing. (SR)

Points out that a carefully developed checklist is a valuable writing aide that can help students and instructor focus on successful writing throughout the writing process. Shares five how-to steps as a guide for developing a writing checklist. (SR)

Voices concerns with isolated exercises in grammar. Offers an alternative, in which teachers collect sentences (mostly from literature) and use them to point out or teach skills for writers. Offers numerous examples. (SR)