The aim of the research project was to explore new ways in which we might evaluate boys' and girls' engagement and "performance" in English at Key Stage 3. This paper draws on recent theories regarding literacy, identity and gender and includes an analysis of short stories written by boys and girls aged 12- to 13-years-old. An exploration of literacy, which relates here to the pupils' treatment of theme, style and structure, will develop further an understanding of their ability to access the imagination and express original creative ideas. This discussion suggests ways to develop the teaching of creative writing and explores to what extent reading pupils' narrative fiction might reveal their cultural literacy. (Contains 1 table and 3 figures.)