Ask writers to select a subject they feel strongly about and instruct them to craft a compelling written argument for the opposing point of view. This exercise will force them to examine and articulate long-held beliefs while also evaluating the validity of opposing viewpoints. An example might be the death penalty, a hotly debated issue for which most people have strong feelings.
Much like the argumentative language arts writing activity, writers should be instructed to select a neutral topic and outline the pros and cons of the subject. This approach encourages the writer to examine all aspects of a given issue. An example of a pro and con language arts writing exercise could be the topic of amnesty for illegal immigrants.
Writing a first-person account of a particular event or experience encourages a writer to examine story details from a personal perspective. This writing style is typically presented from an un-objective perspective, which allows the writer to craft with greater freedom of expression than other styles of writing. An example could be a first date, am embarrassing moment or a trying situation.
In the same vein as the personal experience writing exercise, a third party perspective language arts writing activity encourages the writer to tell a story or relay an experience from an outsider's perspective. The writer will have to surmise situations, feelings and attitudes of those being observed and convey them to the reader. An example might be observing an argument between a child and parent, witnessing an accident or watching a news account of a worldwide event.
In a dispute language arts writing activity, the writer is asked to dispute an issue. This activity should encourage the use of research, the gathering of verifiable facts and the creation of a convincing, compelling argument. Examples could include disputing a poor grade, a denial of credit, a policy, law or rule the writer doesn't agree with.
In a clarification writing style, the writer is asked to distill a confusing or easily misunderstood topic and explain it in layman's terms. An example could include the traditional viewpoints of various political parties or the underlying elements of various pieces of legislation.
Communication relay is a writing style most frequently used in the business world. This exercise challenges the writer to convey the elements of a project, topic or issue to others in a clear, concise, articulate manner. Examples could include summarizing minutes from a meeting or a lecture series or outlining the specific steps for a product launch.