Of all the language skills, writing is the most difficult challenge for language teachers because students have less experience with written expression. Stimulated by audio-visual materials throughout their lives, students are novices in the discipline of writing. Making writing an ongoing part of foreign language acquisition from the first day in class will help ensure student success. Even the first chapter of a beginning text provides enough vocabulary for telling a simple story. Early on, a case should be made for clarity and simplicity, and the contemporary German short story can be used as an example. During the second year of study, paraphrasing and summarizing readings and critiquing films can develop the writing skill as active vocabulary increases. More advanced grammar and composition makes more creative work possible. Incentives can come from writing assignments such as take-offs on soap operas, like Schwardwaldklinik, Dallas and Denver, Derrick-type Krimis, or advice columns for students. They challenge the imagination and help budding satirical talents unfold. Various classroom strategies for developing writing skills are presented. (Author/LB)