There is a logical sequence in the steps of a freshman English course, the goal of which is the comprehension of the writing process and a readiness to move forward with that process. Students must first learn prewriting--an outpouring on paper of every thought connected with a given topic. This is followed by selecting ideas, formulating a thesis, establishing a writing pattern, and editing. The two final stages are preparing the manuscript and proofreading. Teachers can best learn how to teach writing by trying these processes in their own writing. (JM)