This publication contains exercises recommended for use with adult basic education students in a writing skills program. Journal exercises are suggested as an ice-breaking activity for the beginning writer. Topics are listed for directed journal entries that bridge the gap from free writing to a structured approach. "Power verbs" exercises are provided that improve the use of specific descriptive verbs. Exercises in writing sentences progress from simple sentences to description using sense details to adding information to sentences. Next, exercises are presented that build skills in sentence refinement and paragraph structure and that serve as a good building block for writing process instruction. A variety of exercises follow that help students develop paragraphs. They cover such concepts as sensory descriptions, comparison and contrast, exposition, and self-awareness/self-understanding. Exercises that focus on life skills offer instruction in writing business letters, cover letters, thank you letters for interviews, and complaint letters. Exercises for the writing process include the introduction of transitional expressions, outlining, rough drafts, revision, and editing. Suggested topics for a final workshop composition are provided. Handouts and 58 references are appended. (YLB)