How many times have we heard someone complaining about something occurring in our communities-but offering no solutions for problem? Create the problem-solving skills and involve you substantive conversation concerning a current local issue. Motivate you to begin seriously considering your audience as writer. When you are writing a letter like this, you will want to consider who will be reading it, particularly in terms of what words, examples, facts, or appeals might best convince particular group.

Write two to three page (double-spaced) letter to editor, suggesting solution to current local problem. Write the newspaper to which you would be sending this to at top of your paper. Start the letter with: "Dear Editor," Throughout paper, be as specific as you possibly can in terms of:

1.) Explaining the problem and who it affects

2.) Explaining your solution

3.) Defending your solution as best means of dealing with this problem

As you are writing this letter, also do keep in mind your audience.