Argues that teachers need to be aware of the diverse conceptual demands made by writing assignments in various disciplines; illustrates this by analyzing four assignments. (DD)

Content area teachers interested in using writing to learn activities need to be well informed about the learning promoted by certain writing tasks before assigning them. Writing assignments should not be thoughtlessly and arbitrarily assigned with the expectation that learning, somewhat miraculously or mysteriously, will occur. Although writing…

Discusses the sequencing of writing assignments based on students' natural development. Cites the work of Piaget and Moffett. (FL)

Discusses writing assignments and instructional support needed when the primary purpose of writing is to help students reformulate their subject-matter knowledge. Research on grades one-three illustrates ways in which two writing assignments offer different opportunities to learn about American history. (BB)