By its very nature, writing encourages the active participation of the client in the problem-solving process. For individuals who have been unable to take full advantage of the more traditional "let's talk about it" type of counseling, it can prove to be a significant step in the right direction. (Author)

This book discusses basic craft elements of writing, illustrates from adult and children's literature what constitutes an engaging passage of description, and then illustrates how that craft can be taught in a workshop environment. In addition, this book includes involvement experiences that help teachers experience these craft elements. After an…

An educator, concerned with the state of current elementary school writing methodology, suggests a positive approach based on the principle of children writing what they want to write for a real audience of peer cohorts. (CS)

The School of Education at the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee has refined its method of granting college credit for community experience. Prior Professional Educational Experience (PPEE) credits are granted for knowledge in competency areas offered by the department. The program has given students a sense of accomplishment about learning…

Common pitfalls in technical writing and how to avoid them are outlined. These pitfalls include goobledygook words and phrases, plodding style, failure to follow the prescribed format for publication or proposals, misuse of words, inconsistencies, and failure to edit or proofread adequately. (MSE)

Valgardson discusses his attitudes toward his work and toward the teaching of writing. (RL)

Three studies assessed the relationship between expressive writing (poetry writing and journal keeping) and ego identity development among high school and college students. Poetry writers were more likely to be in the identity achiever status. No differences were found between students keeping personal journals and those who had not. (Author/GDC)

Maintains that the five-paragraph essay formula confuses and alienates students and undermines the basic goals of writing instruction. Advocates developing a repertoire of alternatives for teaching form. Suggests that using the metaphor of the essay as journey is one such teaching alternative. (SR)

The narrative technique can be used as an effective teaching device at the college level. It can enhance students' motivation and provide a cognitive framework for learning. The narrative in Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" is discussed. Three modes of illustration and using illustrations in class are described. (MLW)

Describes an approach to teaching journalism students about descriptive writing by examining physical environments. Students go outdoors to find flowers about which to research, write, and sketch. Students are encouraged to become aware of their surroundings and think about physical details that bring hard news stories to life. Knowledge of nature…

Emphasizing real-life communication skills, this book offers cooperative activities to help teachers supplement their writing programs with easy-to-use critical thinking activities. The activities in the book are suitable for grades 4 through 8, for gifted younger students, or as a remediation tool for older students. The activities are aimed at…

Experience and research have shown that writing workshops are an excellent tool for improving workers' writing skills. In the past 5 years, the emphasis of writing instruction has shifted from a focus primarily on handwriting, correct spelling, and simple reinforcement of skills to a focus on empowering students by emphasizing fluency and student…

A practicum used an integrated writing approach to improve 28 third-graders' ability to write descriptive paragraphs. The program consisted of two strategies: a process approach and a step-by-step approach. Success was measured by comparing the statistics of a pretest and a posttest and through observation, computer generated worksheets, and…

THE FOLLOWING IS THE FULL TEXT OF THIS DOCUMENT: LEVEL: High school and college. AUTHOR'S COMMENT: I used this mini-unit to initiate the class in working effectively as a peer group. Moreover, the task I assigned demands that students develop an awareness of their audience's needs by providing an immediate and concrete response. THE APPROACH: (1)…