However, I can say that my students enjoyed comparing the above letter and e-mail. I believe it is a valuable exercise, provided that you ensure that the students know that the lack of traditional writing conventions is unique to e-mail and chat lines and that in 'normal' letters they have to be retained. Whenever possible, this project should be an extension of the work you are already doing in class and not something extra. The project must have realistic objectives. Students should see that the project is viable.
Simplicity is the key here.
The students should see the value of the project The students need to be able to see that the project will improve their language skills. Perhaps you should aim to make a wallchart or collate information about something. The e-mail project should only be a means to achieving something in the classroom and not an end in itself. My students enjoyed their first experience with e-mail. Tal, kik and Be.