To support arguments for an integrative approach to the study of writing, this report summarizes past and current trends in writing research and the resulting implications. The introduction discusses pre-1970s, 1970s, and 1980s research trends, noting that current research focuses on the context in which writing takes place and points out the benefits of building a social cognitive theory of writing. The first section, containing a review of relevant research, begins with a section on the uses of writing, stressing the notion of "communicative competence" as the individual's knowledge of appropriate uses of language in varied social contexts. This section also looks at the direction of current research, literacy communities, and the evaluation of written language. The second section of the literature review examines the nature of writing, and includes information on current research trends, possible new directions in research and their implications, writing processes and products, the role of technology, and individual differences in composing strategies. The third section of the report examines the acquisition of writing skills, with subsections on current research trends, the connection between writing and learning, the role of adults and peers, computer responses to writing, and new directions in research. The final section of the report suggests areas for future research. Twenty-one pages of references are included. (JC)