Writing as a learning activity This book offers an account of the potentials of writing as a tool for learning. Four aspects of writing emerge particularly clearly through the chapters. First writing to learn depends on the cognitive strategies of the writer; instruction in such strategies contributes significantly to the ability to use writing as a learning tool. Secondly strategies for writing and reasoning are largely specific to academic disciplines. Thirdly writing is not as traditionally conceived only an individual ability but also an activity that is social. It is a collaborative practice facilitated by representational tools books computer notes schemata drawings etc. by which knowledge is acquired organized and transformed at various levels of complexity. Fourthly writing is a productive activity exemplified by the varied and positive effects of writing on learning different subjects at various educational levels