ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by exploring what is meant by authentic, purposeful, and meaningful writing and its importance in developing successful writers. Discussion is had about the needs of the pupil-writers and the needs of the teacher and curriculum. How teachers can pursue authentic and purposeful writing projects is then examined. The relationship between authentic writing and attention to purpose, audience, genre and pragmatics is also explored. The negative consequences of a lack of authentic and meaningful writing within the writing curriculum are shared, as are the links between authentic class writing projects and building a community of writers within the classroom. The chapter concludes with examples of effective practice from the classrooms of high-performing Writing For Pleasure teachers.
