A number of the axioms of tagmemics are explored in order to develop exercises based on these axioms about language structure but specifically designed to develop writing competence. Exercises for unit definition through contrast with other units; range of variability; and distribution in class, sequence, and system receive particular attention. Other exercises are concerned with (1) functional classes in slots, (2) interlocking levels of slots, (3) lexical, phonological, and grammatical hierarchies of levels, (4) meaning in relation to forms, (5) language units as particles, waves, or points in a linguistic field, (6) language as communicative, symbolic behavior, and (7) the nature of language change. (AF)