Often, I bring in print ads, new or old products, packages, point of purchase displays or whatever is current and relevant. I will ask for the students' emotional, intellectual or even physical responses or reactions. The writing exercises can be used as springboards for the discussion of assigned material. There are several important benefits resulting from the use of the in-class writing exercises. The exercises enable me to get to know the students very quickly.
Students are surprising.
It is much easier for them to discuss their attitudes, beliefs, opinions, ideas and values in written form. The students have amazed me with their honesty, creativity and vulnerability. Students are often reluctant to divulge these things verbally in class. The writing exercises also provide me with insight regarding the students' understanding and application of various marketing principles. The students must discuss a variety of marketing ideas, practices and concepts.