The book shows that it is possible to take the teaching of writing seriously at an early stage in language learning. It recognises the role writing plays in general language learning. The introduction discusses the differences between speaking and writing, the purpose of writing and the real world uses to which it is put. Process writing is discussed in a particularly clear manner and approaches to teaching writing are considered. The book includes activities to start learners writing with confidence, for example by practising such mechanics as capitalisation, spelling and punctuation, activities that focus on the writing process, activities that show how valuable computers can be in teaching writing, and activities that focus on outcomes and on the assessment of writing.