For one/two-semester paragraph-to-essay level basic writing courses in Developmental Writing. This thematic text for basic writers features a unique instructional format that combines the fundamentals of grammar, mechanics, rhetoric, vocabulary, and spelling, with contemporary topics and participatory exercises that require students to get fully involved by creating, changing, rewriting, or correcting. Using an integrated "whole language" approach and continual reinforcement of skills, the text shows respect for students' intelligence, maturity, and interests.