Originally published in 1976. How do children learn to write? What stages to they pass through in mastering this skill? What part can teachers play in aiding their development? These are some of the questions that this book sets out to answer. This book offers a perspective on writing which places children's language resources and their development at its centre. It discusses the purpose of writing, ways of classifying its variety, providing contexts for writing, its treatment in schools and methods for helping children to overcome difficulties. A section explores the arguments for a writing policy or programme in schools, and offering guidance on considerations that shape policy making.