Provides a developmental model which is related to the acquisition of writing skills and to children's growth in knowledge of the forms and structure of writing. The author examines the classroom context and the role of the teacher and offers strategies and techniques for effective teaching. There is emphasis on writing across the curriculum and particularly on the function of literature and creative activity in writing development. In exploring the dimensions of writing development, consideration is given to those characteristics on which judgements can be based so that they may be substantively related to the National Curriculum Statements of attainment and importantly to assessment.