Discussion of the use of microcomputers as word processors in basic writing classes highlights the improvements in students' writing skills. Changes in teachers' approaches to writing courses are discussed and results of a study of 24 students in a basic writing course using microcomputers at Montclair State College are presented. (Author/LRW)

Argues that using models of adolescent cognitive and affective development in the construction of writing programs is a flawed approach. Discusses four "environmental" or sociological influences which cut across developmental grids and suggests the necessity of going beyond such developmental models to allay the "wasteland" in…

Presents various teacher-tested instructional techniques: (l) using counselors to aid teachers in basic writing courses, (2) training writing teachers using the process method, (3) teaching proofreading skills (4) using imitation in literature classes (5) using lists and imaginary dialogue to supplement conventional journal writing assignments,…

Describes a teacher's use of the word processor to help students improve their attitudes toward writing and their abilities in writing. (ARH)

Discusses the use of computers and word processing programs in two-year college writing instruction. Compares levels of student use of word processing in writing tasks. Reviews factors to be considered in evaluating software. (DMM)

Notes that although fiction writing is a somewhat problematic part of upper elementary/middle school writing, it is important for children to be able to compose good fiction. Suggests two methods to benefit young writers: (1) expose them to a wide range of good fiction, and (2) preserve their right to create personal fictions. (NH)

Indicates that, although it was not easy for students to apply what they had learned from writing personal narratives to other subjects and other types of stories, the personal narrative assignment turned out to be much more than a way to keep students writing between interview-based assignments. (JK)

Identifies two developing trends in organizations which may influence technical writers and technical writing teachers: (1) increasing technology may result in an increasing need for a conversational tone in technical writing; and (2) an increasingly participative corporate structure may require technical writers to have greater participation and…

Contributors (1) offer suggestions about using the newspaper for vocabulary development and involving students in problem solving activities, (2) describe a course designed for parents who want to help their children with reading, and (3) discuss the names of diacritical marks. (FL)

Describes how curriculum specialists and supervisors can use two generic observation categories of effective teaching--development and management of lessons and presentation of subject matter--to identify quality teaching of writing across grade levels. (SRT)

Argues that the best way to encourage writers is to allow that their writing has a real purpose and a real audience. Discusses how unself-conscious response to the purpose of writing is more useful than responses that attend only to technique and form. (SRT)

Describes generic problem-solving model constructed by D. Koberg and J. Bagnall that can be used by writing center tutors and that progresses as follows: (1) accept situation, (2) analyze, (3) define, (4) ideate, (5) select, (6) implement, (7) evaluate. Provides tutors with coherent framework and with way of breaking larger framework down into…

Indicates a significant difference between trained and nontrained teachers for four instructional practices and for the amount of interaction with other professionals. Shows that the effects of training on students endured for three years for the treatment group at the junior high level. (JD)

Claims that computer programs are needed that operate on commonly available microcomputers and provide guidance in the generation and interrogation of a writer's ideas. Discusses Hugh Burns' program "TOPOI" as an example. Describes ways in which a computer and operator can interact. Criticizes those who view open-response software merely…

Offers a test for identifying students with writing apprehension and offers strategies for dealing with these students. (SRT)