They collect information and ideas, frequently much more than they will finally use. They sort through their ideas to organize and clarify what they want to say. . This part is typically time-consuming and hard, even for very good writers. . The most useful teacher response to an early draft focuses on what students are trying to say, not the mechanics of writing. Teachers can help most by asking for clarification, commenting on vivid expressions or fresh ideas, and suggesting ways to support the main thrust of the writing.
Students can then consider the feedback and decide how to use it to improve the next draft. .
Students then need to check their final version for spelling, grammar, punctuation, other writing mechanics, and legibility. Prompt feedback from teachers on written assignments is impor- tant. Students are most likely to write competently when schools routinely require writing in all subject areas, not just in English class. Techniques for Mastering the Writing Process. Oxford University Press.