Difficulties in Acquiring and Developing Writing Skills

Abstract

This chapter considers the proximal and distal skills which impact on children’s developing writing competencies. We examine three dimensions: text-based factors, child-based factors, and the role of writing instruction in supporting struggling writers. Text-based factors include writing levels (word sentence and discourse), writing genre, and the medium of text production. In terms of child-based factors, we examine the language in which children are learning to write; children’s competencies in oral language, spelling, and handwriting; and the processes they engage in (planning and revising) in text production. Finally, we consider the role of pedagogy and instructional programs in supporting struggling writers.