A program was developed and implemented to improve and motivate students' writing in the elementary grades. Research data suggests probable causes for lack of student motivation and progress in writing. These causes include: overloaded and product driven curriculum, lack of appropriate teacher training, time-consuming and subjective grading processes, student frustration, and lack of modeled writing by adults. Subjects were 46 K-3 students in a Chicago suburb, chosen at random. A written language inventory was used to assess pretest (given the second week of September) and posttest (given the second week of January) performance and formally assess written work in student portfolios. Results indicated that the use of writing workshops, a print-rich environment, writing centers, a home writing program, an author's corner, and skill development were effective in increasing student motivation and improving writing skills. Findings suggest that the program implemented was successful due to the manageable design of the plan, ability of the flexible and experienced researchers to make appropriate curriculum decisions and adjustments to daily schedules, and the eagerness of students to explore the world of writing. Even though the targeted population widely ranged in age and ability levels, positive and significant change in all classrooms involved was observed; the combination of strategies used can be highly successful at virtually all grade levels K-3 and special education. (Includes 10 tables of data and 26 references; sample forms and hand-outs are appended.) (Author/CR)