The general procedures used to develop educational objectives for the National Assessment of Educational Progress are outlined, as are the procedures used to develop writing objectives. Four objectives related to writing skills are stated: "write to communicate adequately in a social situation"; "write to communicate adequately in a business or vocational situation"; "write to communicate adequately in a scholastic situation"; and "appreciate the value of writing." Each of the first three objectives is defined more specifically in terms of tasks appropriate for four chosen age levels: 9-, 13- and 17-year olds, and adults. The fourth objective is discussed in terms of three sub-goals. Appendices list the names of experts, of lay panel chairmen, and of educational organizations involved in developing the objectives. (EB) Primary type of information provided by report: Assessment Instrument (Objectives); Procedures (Objectives Development).