[seanmcq]

Ask them to write an essay.

[RivieraKid]

From my experience, ability to write good essays doesn't have especially good correlation with programming ability.

[lukeck]

I agree with you to an extent but I guess it comes down to how you judge a good essay. I wouldn't expect a literary masterpiece but if the candidate can convey their intended message in a clear, unambiguous and concise manner, I'd take that as a fairly good indicator of decent organisational skills.