A research review examined approaches on how to tap into writing so that students will be motivated to want to express their thoughts on paper. In addition, interviews were conducted with a well known principal and teacher of an inner city school in Chicago, Illinois and with a professor of writing at Murray State University in Kentucky. A writing questionnaire was also given to five fourth- and fifth-grade teachers. Findings suggest that writing can and should begin at an earlier age, while the child is fresh with many ideas. Also, the teaching of writing is important in the public schools, and as such, teachers should try many different learning experiences and teaching methods to encourage students to write. (The summaries of two interviews and the writing questionnaire with results are included; a 15-item bibliography is attached.) (KEH)