We say don't try and write about (United States President George W) Bush. That is for when you become an experienced writer. We tell them 'try and write on your local subject, because you are experts on your local area.' It must be of public interest and focused. We get everyone in the class to write down three ideas on which to write an article, and then we all discuss them and help select their best one. We tell them it's not like writing a short story sitting at a table. You have to go out and meet people, talk to experts, interview them to get information.