Working with Short Stories arises from a collaborative venture of three practising teachers who were keen to provide English materials which developed: - pupil-based discovery - interactive learning through group work - the oral involvement of pupils The authors have based each practical unit around a short story because it introduces students to the art of a form which is mirrored in the larger work of the novel, and provides a whole work to evaluate and enjoy. It also fits into other different units of work, such as thematic work, or study of an author, genre or period. The book aims to stimulate and extend students in the 14-16 age range, fulfilling GCSE and Standard Grade criteria and providing a useful resource for teachers. The material in the book is also suitable for pupils working under tutorial systems. It provides students with flexible learning strategies which are tailored to meet the needs of the National Curriculum. The activities create a balance between competence in language and development of the imagination, written and spoken modes, individual and collaborative tasks, acquisition and application of concepts and skills.