The important thing about writing is

that it is challenging to teach and learn.

The definition of literacy

keeps changing, and

our understanding of effective teaching practices

keeps growing because

our body of research keeps expanding.

But even though we know that

writing is central to academic success, and

successful teaching strategies have been identified, and

innovative programs have been implemented,

the preparation of teachers

too often neglects

the teaching of writing.

Still, the teaching of writing must be everybody’s business because

the important thing about writing is

that it is challenging to teach and learn.

--from “Introduction,” Because Writing Matters