Which activity would best help middle school students develop writing skills and learn about career options?

Engaging in an e-mail mentoring project with various local business owners is an effective way for middle school students to develop writing skills while simultaneously learning about career options. This activity requires students to communicate professionally and inquire about the mentors’ career paths, thereby enhancing their ability to formulate questions, articulate thoughts clearly, and convey messages effectively through writing.

Additionally, the format of e-mail communication simulates real-world scenarios in which students might need to interact with professionals, fostering skills that are crucial in both academic and career settings. By receiving responses from mentors, students also gain insights into different professions, helping them explore potential career interests and understand necessary skills for various fields.

While the other options, such as participating in a creative writing workshop or joining a book club, may help improve writing skills, they do not provide the same direct connection to career exploration as the mentoring project does. Writing personal essays, while beneficial for self-expression, also lacks the interactive and exploratory aspect that can help students broaden their understanding of career opportunities.