Emphasizes communication -- rather than correctness -- throughout.

Avoids using a linear set of steps or a rigid process that often confuses students who have had limited success with writing.

Teaches grammar in context and emphasizes how grammatical choices affect communication.

Features an easy-to-follow, consistent chapter organization:

• Discussion -- of a general writing topic.
• Reading an Essay -- presenting a strategy for reading and a professional essay with apparatus.
• Techniques for Writing -- focusing on a specific technique followed by skill-building assignments.
• Reading a Student Essay -- discussing a revising strategy and providing a student essay with apparatus for practice.
• Using Grammar -- focusing on a specific concept and the ways it can be used to communicate an idea followed by skill-building assignments.
• Seeing the Connections -- three assignments that draw on reading, writing, and grammar skills discussed in the chapter--each resulting in a written product that requires prewriting, drafting, and revision.