What is WAC? Basic Information for Interested Academics
Katherine Vande Brake, King College
Tamara Kendig, West Virgnia Wesleyan

WAC helps students understand that writing is important to all disciplines, and that clear communication is necessary in any field.

WAC allows students to explore and develop as writers in a content-specific discourse.  They can encounter and practice the specific language of historians, practice the documentation style of scientists, and so on. 

Writing about a subject helps students learn the subject better.

WAC reinforces the writing skills and strategies introduced in first-year writing, allowing students to practice and polish their writing skills through all four years.

WAC encourages students to take their first-year writing courses more seriously, as a place to build fundamental skills in preparation for future writing assignments. 
 

Writing Across the Curriculum on a particular campus usually means GOOD WRITING IS HIGHLY VALUED in all disciplines.  MANY FACULTY TEACH WRITING appropriate to their courses There is focus on WRITING PROCESS as well as writing products.  Students have opportunities in the process for FEEDBACK.  Feedback comes from PEERS, PEER TUTORS, and/or INSTRUCTOR.  Writers have access to a WRITING CENTER

 Three variables to consider in implementing WAC at a particular institution:

1. the models available
2. the climate on the particular campus
3. the actual definition of a WAC program