This book offers a much needed alternative to the more traditional texts used to teach writing instruction. Grounded in history, the book clarifies changing theoretical and practical approaches to teaching writing, critically assessing each approach in relation to the social and political movements of the day, both within and beyond the university. The author takes us inside the real world of writing instruction; not only from the viewpoint of instructor, but as seen through the eyes of students struggling to make sense of the expectations of writing class. Mitchell emphasizes that "writing" entails far more than putting words to paper, and delves into contextually variable culturally defined expectations, that include multiple linguistic forms - both oral and written - highlighting the complexity of writing(s), while engaging the reader in lively academic debates about language and society.