To examine the differences and the unique qualities of third grade writers in relation to their uses of language and their perception of the world, a selection of writings from 20 third grade students was analyzed for language ability as measured by words per T-unit. Then, two students from the higher and two from the lower end of the scale were chosen for a more in-depth, qualitative study. It was hypothesized that the children's perceptions of, and perspectives on, the world as revealed in their writings would account for their language ability as measured by quantitative meanings. Data analysis revealed that all four children displayed distinct differences in perspective on the world, which was a more significant factor in their writing than syntactic maturity or general language ability. Each child used those language structures that seemed to have personal relevance, indicating that style is a reflection of relationship to the world. (Examples of children's writings are included.) (Author/HOD)