William,
If it were possible, suppose you could arrange a guest speaker representing a major or significant employer in the area. After their introduction, suppose the guest speaker asked the students to write out their short term and long term goals as it relates to future employment with his/her company. I believe the students own critique of their responses using correct grammar, punctuation, and quality of thought might bring to light the importance of writing skills. Of course, there are numerous variations of this exercise, but the point is for the students to see for themselves the importance GE/writing/math skills… >>>
