Explores some of the differences between faculty and policy advocates by analyzing spatial/directional metaphors used by individuals in each professional domain to describe notions of access and standards. Notes that advocates in the policy-oriented discourse tend to use vertical metaphors, while educators engaged in pedagogical discourse tend to…

Reviews research on revising as it relates to the case study of the revising processes of a basic writing student. Shares insights into the complexities of revising and suggests possibilities for more productive teacher response to student writing. (TB)

Posits that basic writing serves a vital function by providing writing support for at-risk students and serves the needs of a growing student population that universities accept yet feel needs additional writing instruction. Concludes that the basic writing classroom is the most effective educational support for at-risk students and their writing.…

Charts a brief history of the teaching of basic writing, suggesting that fieldwork has been shaped by three overarching metaphors--growth, initiation, and conflict. Argues that recent views of the basic writing classroom as a "contact zone" fail to offer a compelling view of public discourse as a forum expressing and negotiating cultural…

Transcribes a colloquium among doctoral candidates in rhetoric and composition at the CUNY (City University of New York) Graduate School--participants are also teachers advocating for their students. Discusses current and proposed assessment practices at CUNY. (PA)

Discusses the increase in attacks on collegiate basic writing. Questions what the future holds for basic writing. Suggests that despite wrenching changes in basic writing instruction, moral obligation insists that basic-writing teachers continue their work to surmount the now commonplace challenges and assaults. (PA)