The minimal writing skills proficiency program in the Phoenix Union High School District was initiated as a result of basic competency legislation passed in 1972; in 1976, writing was added to the basic skills requirements for graduation. Writing proficiency is determined by teacher evaluation of pieces of writing using the criteria established for 20 writing objectives. The writing objectives address handwriting, capitalization, punctuation, sentences, paragraphs, spelling, grammar/usage, proofreading, notetaking, summary, observation reporting, resource reporting, essay answers, directions, multi-paragraph themes, messages, friendly letters, envelopes, blank forms, and business letters. Based on the data provided, 20 percent of the freshmen, 45 percent of the sophomores, and 73 percent of the juniors completed all writing objectives. (BW)