RAFT Writing Strategy & Examples

The RAFT writing strategy is a powerful tool for students to use when composing a variety of writing pieces. The acronym RAFT stands for Role, Audience, Format, and Topic. By considering these elements, students can create a clear and focused writing piece that effectively communicates their message to their intended audience.

It is not clear who originated the RAFT writing strategy. However, it has been widely used in education as a way to help students understand the elements of writing and improve their writing skills. It has been used in classrooms across the United States and in other countries, and has been embraced by teachers and students alike.

The “Role” element of RAFT refers to the perspective or voice that the writer will take on in their writing. This could be the first-person perspective of the writer themselves, or it could be the third-person perspective of a character or narrator.

The “Audience” element refers to the intended readers of the writing. Consideration of the audience is important because it will affect the tone and style of the writing, as well as the content that is included.

The “Format” element refers to the structure or form that the writing will take. This could be a letter, a speech, a news article, or any other type of written communication.

Finally, the “Topic” element refers to the subject matter that the writing will cover. This could be a historical event, a personal experience, or an issue of public concern.

Who benefits most from the RAFT strategy? 

The strategy is beneficial for all students, but it can be particularly helpful for those who struggle with writing organization and clarity. By breaking down the writing process into these four elements, students can more easily plan and structure their writing, which can lead to more effective and engaging communication.

There are several reasons why the RAFT strategy is good for students.

First, it helps students focus their writing by requiring them to consider the purpose and audience of their piece. This can make the writing process less overwhelming, as students know exactly what they are trying to accomplish and who they are trying to reach.

Second, the RAFT strategy allows students to think creatively and flexibly about their writing. By considering different roles, audiences, formats, and topics, students can come up with new and unique ideas for their writing.

Third, the RAFT strategy helps students to better understand the purpose and function of different types of writing. By considering the format of their piece, students can learn about the conventions and expectations of different forms of written communication, such as letters, speeches, or articles.

Fourth, the RAFT strategy encourages students to consider the needs and perspectives of their audience. By thinking about who their readers are and what they might be interested in, students can better tailor their writing to their audience.

Fifth, the RAFT strategy helps students to improve their writing skills overall. By considering the various elements of their writing, students can ensure that their pieces are well-organized, clearly written, and effectively communicate their message.

To use the strategy, students can follow these steps:

1. Determine the role that they will take on in their writing. Will they be writing from their own perspective, or will they be taking on the perspective of a character or narrator?
2. Identify their intended audience. Who will be reading their writing? What are their interests and needs?
3. Select a format for their writing. What type of written communication will best suit their purpose and audience?
4. Choose a topic for their writing. What subject matter will they be covering?
5. Plan and organize their writing, keeping in mind the elements of RAFT.
6. Write their piece, using the RAFT elements to guide the content and structure.
7. Edit and revise their writing, paying attention to the clarity and effectiveness of their communication.

RAFT Writing Assignment Examples

Example Writing Assignment #1

Role: You are a scientist studying the effects of pollution on marine life.

Audience: The mayor of your city

Format: Letter

Topic: The importance of reducing pollution in our oceans

Instructions:

As a scientist studying the effects of pollution on marine life, you have seen firsthand the devastating impact that pollution can have on the oceans and the creatures that call them home. You are writing a letter to the mayor of your city to persuade her to take action to reduce pollution in the oceans. In your letter, be sure to explain the negative effects of pollution on marine life, provide examples of specific species that are being affected, and suggest specific steps that the city could take to reduce pollution. 

Example Writing Assignment #2

Role: You are a student at a local high school

Audience: Your classmates

Format: Persuasive speech

Topic: The importance of getting enough sleep

Instructions:

You are giving a persuasive speech to your classmates to encourage them to prioritize sleep and to explain the benefits of getting a good night’s rest. In your speech, be sure to explain the negative effects of not getting enough sleep, such as poor grades, difficulty concentrating, and a weakened immune system. Provide examples of the benefits of getting enough sleep, such as improved mood, better grades, and better overall health. 

Example Writing Assignment #3

Role: You are the nursing home director

Audience: The nursing home’s board of directors

Format: Memo

Topic: The importance of providing more nutritious food for nursing home residents

Instructions:

As the nursing home director, you are responsible for the well-being of the residents in your care. You have noticed that the food being served to the residents is not as nutritious as it could be, and you believe that this is having a negative impact on their health. You are writing a memo to the nursing home’s board of directors to suggest that the food provided to residents should be more nutritious. In your memo, be sure to explain the negative effects of poor nutrition on the health of nursing home residents, provide examples of specific health issues that could be caused by a poor diet, and suggest specific steps that the nursing home could take to improve the nutrition of the food that is served. 

Example Writing Assignment #4

Role: You are a high school student

Audience: Your parents

Format: Persuasive letter

Topic: The importance of traveling to Europe during the summer

Instructions:

As a high school student, you are excited about the opportunity to travel to Europe during the summer. However, you know that your parents might have concerns about the cost and safety of such a trip. You are writing a persuasive letter to your parents to convince them that it is important for you to travel to Europe during the summer. In your letter, be sure to explain the benefits of travel. Provide examples of specific experiences and opportunities that you would have on the trip, and address any concerns that your parents might have about cost and safety. 

In conclusion, the RAFT writing strategy is a valuable tool for students to use when composing a variety of writing pieces. By considering the role, audience, format, and topic of their writing, students can create a clear and focused piece that effectively communicates their message to their intended audience. Whether you’re a student navigating the choppy waters of high school English or a seasoned sailor navigating the vast ocean of professional writing, the RAFT strategy is sure to keep you afloat.