The first phase of writing development is the drawing and exploring phase, which occurs during preschool and the beginning of first grade. In this stage, a child will first begin to imitate writing by drawing or scribbling. The child will proceed to become aware of the shapes and forms of letters and learn to print letters and numbers in a line. The child's motor skill are still mostly undeveloped at this stage.
The second stage of writing development is the confident experimentation stage, which occurs during the end of the first grade through the beginning of the second grade. In this stage of development, a child is confident in her ability to print letters and numbers, and is comfortable with their orders. The child may be somewhat self-conscious and preoccupied with the appearance of her writing as opposed to a peer's writing. At this age, a child's spelling abilities are beginning to develop.
The third stage of writing development is the incorporation stage, which occurs during the end of the second grade through the beginning of the fourth grade. In this stage, a child is learning and implementing capitalization, grammar, punctuation and syntax. The child is able to relate experiences through his writing, recognize when revision is necessary and write without prior planning. At this stage the child is also learning to write in cursive.
The fourth stage of writing development is the automated stage, which occurs during the end of the fourth grade through the beginning of the seventh grade. At this stage, a student is able to automatically write while applying the rules of punctuation, grammar and spelling. The student's writing style also reflects her level of speech. In this stage, a student is able to review her work and assess her own writing. Students will begin to incorporate multiple drafts and outlines into their writing.
The final stage of writing development is the proficiency stage, which occurs during the end of the seventh grade and beyond. In this stage, a student is able to write with elaboration and personalization. A student will use transitional words, sophisticated vocabulary, and his writing level will exceed his level of speech. In this stage, a student has the ability to express a viewpoint, write creatively, develop his own writing style and use writing as a tool for remembering, problem solving and thinking.