Describes a writing strategy that teaches students how to write a first person narrative and revise for more exact and fresh vocabulary words. (MG)

Interviews with 13 recent college graduates and written comments of 11 seniors revealed different forms of understanding paralleling different conceptions of learning. Further analysis suggests that types of structure used in a lecture-based course can influence the ease with which students integrate information for comprehension. (Author/MSE)

Discusses some historical precedents and current examples of how English educators manifest a particular habit of mind (reducing the general and fluid "writing process" to "The Writing Process"). Considers reasons why people are so attracted to it. Explores the difficulties associated with this habit of mind rather than argue…

Reviews the potential of word processors for changing the ways in which students process written text and think about writing. Three levels of computer-aided writing are considered: simple word processors; computer-aided writing programs; and higher-level computer-aided processing; and improvements in writing quality. (41 references) (LRW)

Interviews with 39 students with learning disabilities (LD, grades 4-8) and 29 normally achieving students revealed that, compared to controls, LD students had less mature conceptualizations of writing and less favorable attitudes toward writing but no differences in evaluations of their competence in either writing or the composing process.…

At lifewriting workshops held in Maine schools and senior citizen centers, participants learn to turn their memories into written vignettes. Writing memoirs helps older people celebrate who they have been and helps younger people explore who they are. (LP)

The dicto-comp is a type of controlled writing combining text dictation and text reconstruction. The rationale and methods for using it in a Hong Kong high school class are described. (two references) (LB)

Discusses the work of Beatrix Potter as an artist and natural scientist. Presents three classroom projects which integrate technology, fine art, aesthetics, writing, and science. (MG)

The Test of Written Language-2, for use with students ages 7-17, identifies low achievement, determines strengths and weaknesses, and documents progress. The test assesses three language components (conventional, linguistic, and conceptual) using two formats (contrived and spontaneous.) This paper describes the test's administration, scoring,…

Eleven learning-handicapped students (ages 8-13) worked in dyads during a microcomputer-based writing activity, and their behaviors were coded as initiations/responses, verbal/nonverbal. Overall, student interactions had a negative impact on story production. Students exhibited higher levels of assertive, demanding behavior than requests for peer…

A former student of French language and French literature recalls how the lack of required essay-writing at a British Redbrick university affected other aspects of learning, including the abilities to compose good answers to examination questions, study effectively for finals, and understand the discipline. (MSE)

Describes desktop publishing (DTP) that may be suitable for community, activist, and nonprofit groups and discusses how it is changing written communication. Topics discussed include costs; laser printers; time savings; hardware and software selection; and guidelines to consider when establishing DTP capability. (LRW)

A national study examined the essay performance of 17-year olds (n=288), relating their written composition and writing motivation scores to 9 previously studied educational and environmental influences on learning (e.g., age, motivation, mass media, peer groups, home). Results indicate that writing performance is much less predictable then…

Argues that practice in writing resumes and business letters helps composition students gain self-confidence, build self-esteem, and improve writing skills. Examines ways to enhance the writing process, such as using a college career placement office to contextualize resume writing, peer criticism of student work, and brainstorming to develop…

Identifies problems inherent in writing assessment. Suggests that the measurement of minority students' test results can pose difficulties. Cites the practical impossibility of finding objectively true answers to some questions and of making value-free assessments of what students learn. Highlights conflicting views of writing teachers and writing…