The "informal process" for writing reports, which incorporates the mechanics of textbook theory but emphasizes the composition process, may be more successful for teaching fifth graders how to write reports than the traditional approach. This process recommends a number of nontraditional teaching methods. Student choice of topic should be encouraged through the sociable, class activity of brainstorming. Since studies show that determining contradictions in source material is one of the more difficult tasks involved in research, children should read the easiest sources first to eliminate confusion. Students tend to take notes verbatim, a habit which can be countered if students are given specific questions encouraging them to look for distinct pieces of information, while intuitive organizational abilities can be developed through student/teacher conferences throughout the writing process. The following organizational technique for report writing may prove useful: (1) write thoughts at random, (2) cut apart the text in order to organize piles of related text, (3) assemble related material, and (4) edit and revise. Grammar, punctuation, spelling and other mechanics can be taught as mini lessons throughout the report writing period. Reports should be assigned more than once a year and two months should be allowed for instruction in the writing process, with structured writing time set aside each day. Twenty-four references are provided. (JD)