This past weekend I was thinking about a project I used to do with my business classes, where we would write companies for “free stuff”.  This writing assignment was part of a unit that dealt with customer relations and the value of positive feedback.  I always told my students that companies love to hear good things about themselves.  My students would never ask for anything in their letters, but would merely complement the company on their products, services, etc., or inquire about new merchandise.  More often than not, my students would receive a response with a gift certificate, samples, or some other item of appreciation. 

With some creativity, this project could be implemented in most disciplines.  I always would let students choose which companies they wanted to write to, but you could set up criteria, based on the subject area being taught. 

I recommend a hand-written letter even though any company can be emailed instantaneously!  It shows a more personal touch.   

For more information about this project, check out the “Idea of the Week”, on my website www.energizetheclassroom.com .  This idea and any of my other 75 ideas can also be found in my new book “Energize the High School Classroom: Keep it Fun! Keep it Relevant! Keep Learning!” 

If this project is not for you and you want to simply check out a website that will link you to “free stuff” try, www.freestuffonline.com .