The Write On series emphasizes real contexts, purposes and audiences for writing, with reference to both imaginative and everyday writing tasks. Pupils of secondary school age are shown how the skills involved in the craft of writing can be improved through use and practice. Writing jobs are not confined to English lessons but have a broader scope. Book 1, aimed at first year pupils, contains several special features in specified areas of creative writing. The first of these is a group project which involves the production of a guide to leisure activities in the area. The second feature is an "ideas bank" for titles and themes of interest that can generate writing of all kinds. Finally, students are encouraged to keep a "slightly secret diary" for imaginary characters who can simply be themselves. Jo Wilson is Head of a special school and Steve Woodward is Head of an English department in Sunderland.