good writing prompts for 9th graders

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50 Writing Prompts for All Grade Levels

Sometimes students need a little push to activate their imaginations.

The collection of prompts below asks young writers to think through real or imagined events, their emotions, and a few wacky scenarios. Try out the ones you think will resonate most with your students. 

As with all prompts, inform students that their answers should be rated G and that disclosing dangerous or illegal things they’re involved in will obligate you to file a report with the administration or school counselors. Finally, give students the option of writing “PERSONAL” above some entries that they don’t want anyone to read. We all need to let scraggly emotions run free in our prose sometimes.

If your class uses daybooks (an approach recommended in Thinking Out Loud: The Student Daybook as a Tool to Foster Learning ), wait for composition notebooks to go on sale at Target, the Dollar Store, or Walmart for $0.50 a piece. To organize the daybook, direct young writers to leave the first three pages blank and number and date each entry—adding these entries to a table of contents that they create as they work so they can return to specific entries later. 

High School Prompts

• Should cameras on drones watch all public spaces to prevent crime, or is that a violation of privacy? 
• Do Americans have it too easy? Why do you think that?
• What causes racism?
• The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation hires you as a consultant to determine how best to use $20 billion to save the world. What’s your plan?
• What’s the worst thing about the internet? 
• Would you rather be very beautiful or very smart? Explain.
• You can save one object before your house burns down. What is it? What makes that object important to you?
• How much control over your life do you have? What makes you say that? 
• Describe your ideal life 15 years from now. What is something you can do every day to reach that goal?
• What would your friends say is your most lovable quality? Describe that quality. 
• What is something scary that you would like to try? What makes it scary for you? How might you overcome that fear?
• What things do you conscientiously do to feed your brain?
• What are three of your most profound learning experiences? Where and when did they occur?
• By age 18, the average American has seen 200,000 acts of violence on TV, including 40,000 murders. What is it about television violence that is so compelling to people?
• Would you rather be loved or respected? Because?
• Does social media represent individuals authentically? Explain with examples. 
• Imagine that it’s the last day of high school and you’ve been asked by a teacher to say a few words that summarize the events that have occurred over the last four years that are most meaningful to you. What do you say? 

Middle School Prompts

• Which classmate would be the best to lead us through a zombie apocalypse? Why? 
• What real-life situations would work out better for you if you were a different gender? Why?
• How can you tell when someone your age is feeling insecure? Are most people more insecure or anxious than they let on?
• If the internet were to crash forever, what would the benefits be for you? The drawbacks?
• Write a scene that features a) a classmate, b) $100 million, and c) magical shoes. 
• What three features should your future house have? Why?
• If you starred in a television show about your life, what would the show be called? What genre would it be? (Examples: comedy, drama, thriller, romance, action-adventure, fantasy, superhero, soap opera, reality, game show, space adventure, Western, tragedy, etc.) Summarize the plot of an episode. 
• In the future, what extreme sports will people be talking about?
• Is your ethnicity an important part of your identity? How so? 
• You get to take one book, one food item, and one famous person (living or dead) to a deserted island. What and who do you take? Why?
• Write a powerfully supportive email to yourself 10 years from now. Send that email to yourself using FutureMe.org . 
• You have been selected to be king or queen of your school. What are five rules that every kid should follow at your school? What should the punishment be for rule breakers?
• What do the five friends you hang out with most have in common? How are you most like them? How are you different from them?
• What contributes to someone becoming a bully? What can help stop someone from bullying?
• Do you make friends slowly or quickly? Describe how one of your important friendships evolved.
• Should we fear failure? Explain.
• If a wizard could tell you anything about your future, what would you most like to know?
• Do you believe in luck? Are you superstitious? How so? If not, why do you think some people are?

Elementary School Prompts

• I wish my teachers knew that . . .
• What’s the most beautiful person, place, or thing you’ve ever seen? Share what makes that person, place, or thing so special. 
• Which is better, giant muscles or incredible speed? Why?
• What is your most difficult subject in school? Why is it difficult? What can you do to get better at that subject?
• Rewrite “Hansel and Gretel” from the witch’s perspective.
• Describe a scary situation that you’ve experienced.
• What is your first memory? Describe it.
• You wake up tomorrow with a silly superpower that makes you famous. What is that silly power? How does it lead to your becoming an international superstar? 
• Are you a good loser? Explain. 
• What are examples of things you want versus things you need? 
• Last Friday, you were given one wish by a magical panda. You tried so hard to make the wish positive, but after the whacked-out events that unfolded over the weekend, you regret ever meeting that tricky panda. What did you ask for, and what happened?
• I wish my friends . . . 
• Describe a routine that you often or always do (in the morning, when you get home, Friday nights, before a game, etc.).
• What things do all kids know that adults do not?
• What TV or movie characters do you wish were real? Why? 

After they’ve finished an entry, ask students to read their work aloud or exchange daybooks for a read-around. If you give the entries written feedback, show that their work is respected by using a sticky note or scratch paper. 

You might also incorporate background writing music one day a week—say on “Music Monday.” For some examples of music you might use in class, Pitchfork has an article called “ The 50 Best Ambient Albums of All Time .” My favorite album for composing is the Birdy soundtrack by Peter Gabriel—a good one for older kids. Other Edutopia staff and bloggers like writing to Coffitivity , Noisli , Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas to Heaven by Godspeed You! Black Emperor, and Alcest’s Souvenirs d’un Autre Monde .

Don’t forget to write along with your students. Why should they have all the fun?

What are your students’ favorite writing prompts?

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Over 170 Prompts to Inspire Writing and Discussion

Here are all of our Student Opinion questions from the 2020-21 school year. Each question is based on a different New York Times article, interactive feature or video.

By The Learning Network

Each school day we publish a new Student Opinion question, and students use these writing prompts to reflect on their experiences and identities and respond to current events unfolding around them. To introduce each question, we provide an excerpt from a related New York Times article or Opinion piece as well as a free link to the original article.

During the 2020-21 school year, we asked 176 questions, and you can find them all below or here as a PDF . The questions are divided into two categories — those that provide opportunities for debate and persuasive writing, and those that lend themselves to creative, personal or reflective writing.

Teachers can use these prompts to help students practice narrative and persuasive writing, start classroom debates and even spark conversation between students around the world via our comments section. For more ideas on how to use our Student Opinion questions, we offer a short tutorial along with a nine-minute video on how one high school English teacher and her students use this feature .

Questions for Debate and Persuasive Writing

1. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues? 2. Should All Young People Learn How to Invest in the Stock Market? 3. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 4. Should There Be More Gender Options on Identification Documents? 5. Should We End the Practice of Tipping? 6. Should There Be Separate Social Media Apps for Children? 7. Do Marriage Proposals Still Have a Place in Today’s Society? 8. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? 9. Should the United States Decriminalize the Possession of Drugs? 10. Does Reality TV Deserve Its Bad Rap? 11. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? 12. How Should Parents Support a Student Who Has Fallen Behind in School? 13. When Is It OK to Be a Snitch? 14. Should People Be Required to Show Proof of Vaccination? 15. How Much Have You and Your Community Changed Since George Floyd’s Death? 16. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try to Help Us Feel One Another’s Pain? 17. Should Schools or Employers Be Allowed to Tell People How They Should Wear Their Hair? 18. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to Strengthen Our Democracy? 19. Should Corporations Take Political Stands? 20. Should We Rename Schools Named for Historical Figures With Ties to Racism, Sexism or Slavery? 21. How Should Schools Hold Students Accountable for Hurting Others? 22. What Ideas Do You Have to Improve Your Favorite Sport? 23. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? Or Should They Be Scrapped? 24. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It Need to Be Fixed? 25. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme Court? Should We Care? 26. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin? 27. Should Schools Provide Free Pads and Tampons? 28. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Wear Political Symbols? 29. Do You Think People Have Gotten Too Relaxed About Covid? 30. Who Do You Think Should Be Person of the Year for 2020? 31. How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom? 32. Should There Still Be Snow Days? 33. What Are Your Reactions to the Storming of the Capitol by a Pro-Trump Mob? 34. What Do You Think of the Decision by Tech Companies to Block President Trump? 35. If You Were a Member of Congress, Would You Vote to Impeach President Trump? 36. What Would You Do First if You Were the New President? 37. Who Do You Hope Will Win the 2020 Presidential Election? 38. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 39. What Are Your Reactions to the Results of Election 2020? Where Do We Go From Here? 40. How Should We Remember the Problematic Actions of the Nation’s Founders? 41. As Coronavirus Cases Surge, How Should Leaders Decide What Stays Open and What Closes? 42. What Is Your Reaction to the Inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris? 43. How Worried Should We Be About Screen Time During the Pandemic? 44. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Students for What They Say on Social Media? 45. What Works of Art, Culture and Technology Flopped in 2020? 46. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 47. Why Do You Think ‘Drivers License’ Became Such a Smash Hit? 48. Justice Ginsburg Fought for Gender Equality. How Close Are We to Achieving That Goal? 49. How Well Do You Think Our Leaders Have Responded to the Coronavirus Crisis? 50. To What Extent Is the Legacy of Slavery and Racism Still Present in America in 2020? 51. How Should We Reimagine Our Schools So That All Students Receive a Quality Education? 52. How Concerned Do You Think We Should Be About the Integrity of the 2020 Election? 53. What Issues in This Election Season Matter Most to You? 54. Is Summer School a Smart Way to Make Up for Learning Lost This School Year? 55. What Is Your Reaction to the Senate’s Acquittal of Former President Trump? 56. What Is the Worst Toy Ever? 57. How Should We Balance Safety and Urgency in Developing a Covid-19 Vaccine? 58. What Are Your Reactions to Oprah’s Interview With Harry and Meghan? 59. Should the Government Provide a Guaranteed Income for Families With Children? 60. Should There Be More Public Restrooms? 61. Should High School-Age Basketball Players Be Able to Get Paid? 62. Should Team Sports Happen This Year? 63. Who Are the Best Musical Artists of the Past Year? What Are the Best Songs? 64. Should We Cancel Student Debt? 65. How Closely Should Actors’ Identities Reflect the Roles They Play? 66. Should White Writers Translate a Black Author’s Work? 67. Would You Buy an NFT? 68. Should Kids Still Learn to Tell Time? 69. Should All Schools Teach Financial Literacy? 70. What Is Your Reaction to the Verdict in the Derek Chauvin Trial? 71. What Is the Best Way to Stop Abusive Language Online? 72. What Are the Underlying Systems That Hold a Society Together? 73. What Grade Would You Give President Biden on His First 100 Days? 74. Should High Schools Post Their Annual College Lists? 75. Are C.E.O.s Paid Too Much? 76. Should We Rethink Thanksgiving? 77. What Is the Best Way to Get Teenagers Vaccinated? 78. Do You Want Your Parents and Grandparents to Get the New Coronavirus Vaccine? 79. What Is Your Reaction to New Guidelines That Loosen Mask Requirements? 80. Who Should We Honor on Our Money? 81. Is Your School’s Dress Code Outdated? 82. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Vote? 83. How Is Your Generation Changing Politics?

Questions for Creative and Personal Writing

84. What Does Your Unique Style Say About You? 85. How Do You Spend Your Downtime? 86. Would You Want to Live to 200? 87. How Do You Connect to Your Heritage? 88. What Do You Think Are the Secrets to Happiness? 89. Are You a Sneakerhead? 90. What Role Have Mentors Played in Your Life? 91. If You Could Make Your Own Podcast, What Would It Be About? 92. Have You Ever Felt Pressure to ‘Sell Your Pain’? 93. Do You Think You Make Good Climate Choices? 94. What Does TikTok Mean to You? 95. Do Your Parents Overpraise You? 96. Do You Want to Travel in Space? 97. Do You Feel You’re Friends With Celebrities or Influencers You Follow Online? 98. Would You Eat Food Grown in a Lab? 99. What Makes You Cringe? 100. What Volunteer Work Would You Most Like to Do? 101. How Do You Respond When People Ask, ‘Where Are You From?’ 102. Has a School Assignment or Activity Ever Made You Uncomfortable? 103. How Does Your Identity Inform Your Political Beliefs and Values? 104. Are You an Orchid, a Tulip or a Dandelion? 105. Are You Having a Tough Time Maintaining Friendships These Days? 106. How Is Your Mental Health These Days? 107. Do You Love Writing or Receiving Letters? 108. What Has Television Taught You About Social Class? 109. Are You Easily Distracted? 110. What Objects Bring You Comfort? 111. What Is Your Favorite Memory of PBS? 112. Have You Ever Felt Embarrassed by Your Parents? 113. What Are You Doing to Combat Pandemic Fatigue? 114. Have You Ever Worried About Making a Good First Impression? 115. What Do You Want Your Parents to Know About What It’s Like to Be a Teenager During the Pandemic? 116. How Have You Collaborated From a Distance During the Pandemic? 117. How Important Is It to You to Have Similar Political Beliefs to Your Family and Friends? 118. How Are You Feeling About Winter This Year? 119. Which Celebrity Performer Would You Like to Challenge to a Friendly Battle? 120. How Mentally Tough Are You? 121. What Smells Trigger Powerful Memories for You? 122. What Are You Thankful for This Year? 123. Do You Miss Hugs? 124. Are You a Good Conversationalist? 125. What Habits Have You Started or Left Behind in 2020? 126. What Was the Best Art and Culture You Experienced in 2020? 127. What’s Your Relationship With Masks? 128. What Role Does Religion Play in Your Life? 129. How Will You Be Celebrating the Holidays This Year? 130. What Is Something Good That Happened in 2020? 131. What New Flavor Ideas Do You Have for Your Favorite Foods? 132. What Are Your Hopes and Concerns for the New School Year? 133. How Has 2020 Challenged or Changed You? 134. What Do You Hope for Most in 2021? 135. How Do You View Death? 136. What Is Your Favorite Fact You Learned in 2020? 137. What Are the Places in the World That You Love Most? 138. Have You Ever Experienced ‘Impostor Syndrome’? 139. How Well Do You Get Along With Your Siblings? 140. Do You Talk to Your Family About the Cost of College? 141. Do You Have a Healthy Diet? 142. How Do You Feel About Mask-Slipping? 143. Do You Believe in Manifesting? 144. How Do You Express Yourself Creatively? 145. What Are Your Family’s House Rules During the Covid Crisis? 146. What Online Communities Do You Participate In? 147. Have You Experienced Any Embarrassing Zoom Mishaps? 148. What Does Your Country’s National Anthem Mean to You? 149. Are Sports Just Not the Same Without Spectators in the Stands? 150. Would You Volunteer for a Covid-19 Vaccine Trial? 151. What ‘Old’ Technology Do You Think Is Cool? 152. Have You Ever Tried to Grow Something? 153. How Has the Pandemic Changed Your Relationship to Your Body? 154. How Do You Find New Books, Music, Movies or Television Shows? 155. Are You Nervous About Returning to Normal Life? 156. How Do You Celebrate Spring? 157. How Do You Talk With People Who Don’t Share Your Views? 158. Would You Want to Be a Teacher Someday? 159. What Would You Recommend That Is ‘Overlooked and Underappreciated’? 160. What Children’s Books Have Had the Biggest Impact on You? 161. What Is Your Gender Identity? 162. Have You Hit a Wall? 163. What Is the Code You Live By? 164. Do You Think You Have Experienced ‘Learning Loss’ During the Pandemic? 165. What Are the Most Memorable Things You’ve Seen or Experienced in Nature? 166. Do You Want to Have Children Someday? 167. What Have You Learned About Friendship This Year? 168. What Seemingly Mundane Feats Have You Accomplished? 169. Has a Celebrity Ever Convinced You to Do Something? 170. How Have You Commemorated Milestones During the Pandemic? 171. How Often Do You Read, Watch or Listen to Things Outside of Your Comfort Zone? 172. Do You Think You Live in a Political Bubble? 173. What Is Your Relationship With the Weight-Loss Industry? 174. What Have You Made This Year? 175. How Are You Right Now? 176. What Are You Grateful For?

Want more writing prompts?

You can find even more Student Opinion questions in our 300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing , 550 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing and 130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing . We also publish daily Picture Prompts , which are image-centered posts that provide space for many different kinds of writing. You can find all of our writing prompts, added as they publish, here .

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225 Fun & Free Creative Writing Prompts for Kids in All Grade Levels

• Teacher Resources
• Elementary school writing prompts

Middle school writing prompts

High school writing prompts.

• Social emotional learning jounal prompts
• Math writing prompts

Writing prompts are meant to unlock creativity. They’re story starters designed to inspire creative thinking. They can take you to places you’ve been or recall an important time in your life. 

But mostly, they’re useful tools for teachers to inspire writing growth in students from grade school to high school.

“Once upon a time, in a land far, far away…”

It’s amazing how one simple sentence can send you on a journey to places you’ve never been, filled with untold possibilities. 

Reading is great, but you know what’s even better? Giving your students the power to write stories for themselves. 

Writing prompts for kids help students:

• Express themselves and their creativity
• Grasp lifelong literacy skills and concepts
• Tell their own stories and build self-confidence
• Develop a growth mindset when it comes to their writing skills

Writing is like a muscle — it takes practice to build up skills. Luckily, we put together a list of over 200 writing prompts to help your students get started. We’ve also organized them by middle school, high school and elementary school to help teachers decide whether these prompts are age-appropriate for their students.

Grade school writing prompts

Grade schoolers can definitely begin to address complex ideas when it comes to story writing — but you should seek to keep the prompts simple and straightforward. 

Reluctant writers might be intimidated by complicated writing ideas — and this is an age where we should be encouraging creativity.

Creative writing prompts for elementary schoolers

Whether it’s exploring the furthest reaches of outer space, traveling across the Sahara desert or sticking a little closer to home, these creative writing prompts will have students imagining endless possibilities for their writing.

• Write about what your life would be like if you turned into a squirrel. What would you do every day?
• A strange spaceship just crashed and landed in your backyard. What happens next?
• Make up a story about where thunder comes from.
• You find an old notebook hidden in an attic. What does it say? Who did it belong to?
• You have a magic garden. What magical plants do you grow? How do you take care of them?
• Write a story about running away with the circus when it comes to town.
• Rewrite “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” from the perspective of one of the dwarfs (Happy, Sleepy, Dopey, Doc, Grumpy, Sneezy and Bashful).
• There once was a little boy who ate nothing but oranges. What happened to him?
• Write a story about a magical hat. Where is it from? What does it do? What does it look like?
• You’re exploring the rainforest and come across a flower that no one’s ever seen before. Describe it!
• Tell me a story about a dinosaur living a long, long time ago.
• Tell me a story about an astronaut visiting another planet. Where are they going? How do they get there? What do they take with them?
• You discover a magic portal in the park. Where does it lead to?
• Pick a partner and write a story together! Start by writing the first sentence, then pass it to your partner to write the second sentence.
• You find buried treasure in the park, hidden in a big wooden chest. What kind of treasure is it? Who left it there?
• Write a story about a family that can travel in time. 
• Write a story without using the letter “E”.
• Write the funniest story you can think of. 
• There’s a kangaroo in your classroom. How did it get there? What happens when you find it?
• Write a story about an explorer who keeps getting lost. Where are they trying to go? What do they find along the way?
• Write a story about a wooden door, a can of soda and a blue shoe.
• If there was a magical portal in the back of your closet, where would it lead to? 
• Finish this story: There was a knock on the door. I opened it to find a dog sitting there, and…
• You come home and find that everything in your house is upside down. What happened?
• Describe the color “red” without using the word “red”.
• There’s an old, abandoned house at the end of your street that’s been empty for years. One day, someone moves in.
• Rewrite the story of Cinderella from the perspective of the stepsisters.  
• Write a backstory for Ed, the orange Prodigy mascot. 
• You wake up one morning and find a mermaid in your bathtub. How did they get there? What do you do?
• Write a story about a monster looking for some friends. 
• Oh no — your balloon blew away! Write about what happens from the balloon’s perspective. 
• You and your friends are out for a walk when, out of nowhere, your friends start disappearing! What’s going on?
• Once upon a time, an old inventor built a weather machine. It sat undiscovered for years — until you found it. What happens next?
• You just ate a cookie that turned you 15 feet tall. What do you do next?

Fun writing prompts for grade schoolers

Everyday life is full of great inspiration for writing! Get students thinking with these easy and fun writing prompts.Write about something you are good at. 

• If you could write a book about anything, what would you write about?
• If you could have any animal as a pet, what would it be and why?
• Do you have a favorite animal? Tell me all about it! Why do you like it?
• What would you do if you woke up one morning and everything was pink — including you?
• What food can you not live without? Why?
• If you could add any class to your school schedule, what would it be?
• Invent a new day of the week. What is it called? When is it? What do people usually do on that day of the week?
• If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? 
• If you could spend a Saturday doing anything you wanted, what adventures would you get up to?
• If you could have any wild animal as a pet, what would you choose? Why?
• What's your favorite, wacky food?
• Where is your favorite place to read? Why?
• What was the coolest day of school for you? What made it exciting?
• Which of your toys do you wish could talk? What would they say?
• If you could only wear one outfit for the rest of your life, what would it look like?
• Invent a machine to do a chore for you. What does the machine do? What does it look like?
• What's your favorite season? What makes it the best?
• What is your favorite math game and why?
• Describe your real-life superpower.
• Finish the story: When I'm older I want to be an expert in…
• If pets could talk to each other, what would they say?
• If you were the captain of a ship, what would you call your ship? What would it look like? Where would you go?
• If your pet could talk to you, what do you think it would say?
• If you were the only person on earth for one day, what would you do?
• Plan the perfect birthday party for yourself. 
• What is your favorite thing to do over summer break?
• Describe your ideal birthday cake. 
• If you could add any type of room to your house, what would it be?
• What’s your favorite movie and why?

Persuasive writing prompts for elementary school

Are your students’ opinions up for debate? Ask them to flex their critical thinking skills with these persuasive writing prompts. Once they’re done, get class discussion flowing with a spirited debate!

• Write a letter convincing your parents to let you get a pet dog. What arguments do you use to persuade them?
• Convince your teacher that you should be allowed an extra 15 minutes of recess.
• Convince your best friend to read your favorite book.
• How would you convince someone to do your chores for you?
• Write a commercial for your favorite breakfast food. What would convince someone else to try it?
• What flavor of chips is the best? Why?
• What would make a better pet — a monkey or a peacock?
• Do you think children should be allowed to stay up as late as they want?
• What’s your favorite holiday and why should it be everyone’s favorite? 
• Convince us that your favorite food should be a staple in everyone’s diet.

As students enter middle school, they’re starting to feel like bigger, older kids. They can start writing original short stories and abstract persuasive essays. 

It’s best to inspire creativity at this age and encourage them to explore their own voice and different writing styles. These prompts will definitely go a long way in inspiring that.

Creative Writing Prompts for Middle Schoolers

• Invent a new type of transportation for the future. Who uses it? Where does it go?
• If you had a time machine, where would you visit first — the past or the future? Why?
• You get on the bus and find a four-piece jazz band giving a concert. What do you do?
• Design and name your own Prodigy pet . What element are they? What’s their special power?
• Finish this story: “Something just touched my foot,” they shouted, swimming frantically towards the shore. 
• Write a silly or scary story to tell around a campfire. 
• Finish this story: Everything was going so well today — until I tripped and fell, right in front of…
• Throughout your adventures as a pirate on the high seas, you’ve seen lots of strange and magical creatures. Which one was the most interesting?
• Deep in the heart of a dark and mysterious cave, there lies a magic stone. Write about your quest to find it. 
• Write an acrostic poem using the word “strawberry.”
• There was an old woman who lived in a shoe. She knit and she baked, but what else did she do?
• Finish this story: “One thing I’ll never do again,” she said, “Is go on vacation with an alpaca.”
• Make up a new planet and describe it. 
• Write a story about a family of penguins living on an iceberg.
• Write a story about a girl who can walk through walls. 
• You’ve been invited to a ball at the Queen’s palace! What is it like?
• Imagine you’re exploring the Amazon jungle. Write a diary entry about your day.
• If you could invent a TV show, what would it be about?
• You discovered an underwater kingdom! What is it like there?
• A lonely trumpet player makes friends with the dancer who lives next door. What happens next?
• You go to the park to fly a kite, but get carried away by the wind! What happens next?
• Write a story about a volcano that’s about to erupt.
• Write a story about visiting an old lady who lives deep in the woods.
• Boom, you’re a superhero! Give yourself an origin story, describe your superpowers and plan what you’ll do to make the world a better place. 
• Write a story using these six words: calendar, headphones, lipstick, mug, bear.
• You wake up to find you’re invisible. How did it happen? What do you do?
• There’s been a robbery at the bank, and you’re in charge of finding the culprit. How do you solve the case?
• Finish the story: Once upon a time, there was a dragon...
• You just joined a super-secret spy organization. What’s your first mission?
• Write a story about being cold without using the word “cold.”
• You’re a scientist and you’ve just discovered a new type of bug. Describe what it looks like, where it’s from and what you’re going to call it. 
• Imagine a world where all the birds can talk. What would they say?
• Write about what happens after the end of your favorite book or movie.
• Finish the story: She sprinted down the driveway to the mailbox. The package was here!
• You’re on a hike and a bird starts talking to you. What do you do? What does it say?
• Write a story using these five words: bubblegum, stapler, spoon, lightbulb, strawberry.
• You ate a magical carrot and your skin turned orange! What happens next?
• Write about what it would be like if you had an elephant for a pet.

Fun Writing Prompts for Middle Schoolers

• If you were in charge of the classroom for a day, what would your class do?
• Tell me about the last dream you had.
• You’re trapped on a desert island. What three things did you bring with you and why?
• What mythical creature would you like to have as a pet? Why?
• Invent a new type of pasta. What does it look like? What does it taste like?
• If you could go on vacation anywhere in the world, where would you go? Make a plan and tell the story of your dream vacation.
• Plan the perfect picnic. Where would it be? What food would you have?
• If you could decorate your bedroom any way you wanted, what would it look like?
• Write a story that sounds loud, using onomatopoeia (words that sound like their meaning, like crash, snort, bang and boom.)
• Invent a new type of cookie. What does it taste like?
• Invent a new sport. What is it called? What are the rules?
• How would you disguise yourself to blend in with a forest?
• You just won a special award from the president. What did you do to earn that award?
• Do you collect anything? What is it and why? If not, what would you like to collect?
• You just found a genie in a bottle. What three things would you wish for? (Remember, no wishing for extra wishes!
• Explain how to play your favorite sport or do your favorite hobby. Make it as exciting as possible!
• Describe the most beautiful sunrise or sunset you’ve ever seen.
• If you could live in any book or movie, which one would you choose and why?
• Imagine that you’re going on a camping trip. What do you pack to make sure the trip is fun?
• If you could invent a robot to do any chore, what chore would it be? How would the robot do it?
• Would you rather it was always raining, or always snowing?
• Imagine you’re a toy inventor. What will you create?
• Would you rather climb to the top of a mountain or go scuba diving?
• Interview a family member about their childhood, then write it as a story.
• What was your favorite toy growing up — why was it so special to you?

Persuasive Writing Prompts for Middle School

• If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be and why?
• Is it better to read the book before you watch the movie, or watch the movie before you read the book?
• Persuade someone to try out your favorite hobby or sport.
• What’s the best way to try and persuade a friend to do what you want to do?
• When is peer pressure good? When is peer pressure bad?
• Is it better to have lots of friends, or just a few really good friends?
• Should students be in charge of what they learn in school?

High school students can either be tasked with more complex writing prompts or breathe nuance into simple story ideas. Students can drive these prompts in a million different ways.

So while not necessarily more complicated than middle school, these prompts can be tweaked, either by the student or teacher, to encourage thought-provoking output.

Creative Writing Prompts for High Schoolers

• Write a story about someone your age who lives on the other side of the world. 
• Pick up the nearest book and turn to page 7. Close your eyes and point to a random word on the page, then write a story about that word.
• Write a story in ten words or less.
• You fell asleep for 100 years. What does the world look like when you wake up?
• Finish the story: “This isn’t what I hoped would happen,” she said….
• You’re walking down the street when you see someone who looks exactly like you.
• Write a story where the main character learns something new about themselves.
• Write a story that takes place in the desert. 
• Write a story about a day where everything seems to go wrong. 
• Write a poem about the color blue.
• How would your life be different if you didn’t have access to a computer, video games or your phone?

Fun writing prompts for high schoolers

• You win a million dollars, but there’s a catch — you have to spend it all in 24 hours, or you lose all the money. What do you do?
• Write about something you or your family does from the perspective of someone from another country.
• If you could make up a new holiday, when would it be and what would it celebrate?
• Go out on a nature walk and find a tree. Write the story of that tree, from the time it was a seed until now.
• What’s the most boring superpower you can think of? How would it be useful?
• If you could pass any law, what would it be?
• You meet yourself in the future, as a grown-up at age 35 — what do you talk about? 
• If you had to show aliens the most important/best things in the world, what would you show them?
• Who is your hero and why?
• Write about the best surprise you ever got. 
• What are three good things you can do for the environment? How can you encourage the people around you to do good things for the environment?
• What is your earliest memory? Write down as many details as you can remember.
• If you could take two people – real or fictional – on a cross-country road trip, who would you take? Where would you go?
• If you could have any job in the world tomorrow, what would you do?
• What is the best thing about living in your city or neighbourhood?
• Write a letter to your 30-year-old self. What do you think you’ll accomplish by then?
• Teach me how to make your favorite recipe.
• Describe the sound of your favorite song using descriptive words.

Persuasive writing prompts for high school

• Should kids be allowed to use social media unsupervised? Why or why not?
• Persuade someone to start a healthy habit, or get rid of a bad one.
• Should all single-use plastics be outlawed? Why or why not?
• Should our school have a dress code? Why or why not?
• Is it more important to be right or to not hurt someone else’s feelings?
• What important historical figure do you think belongs on the ten-dollar bill?
• Do you think you’re born with your personality traits, or do you gain them as you grow up?
• Should mobile apps be responsible for protecting your privacy — why or why not?

Social emotional learning journal prompts

School is about more than just books and quizzes — it’s about preparing students for the rest of their lives. Social emotional learning teaches them how to build good relationships with peers, understand and control their emotions and make healthy life decisions.

Journaling is a great way for students to reflect on their feelings in a safe, private space. Use these journaling prompts as thought starters for more social emotional learning!

Check out our list of the 25 best social emotional learning activities for students here. 

• Tell me about a tradition you have with your family or friends. 
• What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
• Have you ever found something that you lost? How did you feel when you found it?
• What is something you haven’t learned this school year that you’re still wondering about?
• What do you do when you’re angry? Write about three ways you calm yourself down.
• Where do you feel the safest? Why do you feel safe there?
• Write a poem to make a friend happy.
• When was the last time you were kind to someone? How can you be kind to someone today?
• How are you feeling today? Are you happy, sad, excited or anxious?
• If you could give your best friend a present, what would it be?
• What are the qualities you look for in a friend? Why is it important to be a good friend?
• What does responsibility mean to you?
• Who do you talk to when you’re worried about something? How do they make you feel better?
• If you could make a card for anyone in your life, who would it be for and what would it say?
• What’s your favorite thing about yourself?
• Write about a time you had to make a hard decision. How did you make your decision?
• What do you do to make yourself happy when you’re sad?
• Write about a time you were disappointed. 
• What are three things that make your best friend awesome?
• What do you think empathy means? Why is it important?
• How can you cheer up a friend who is sad?
• What makes you a good friend? How can you be a better friend?
• What’s the best piece of advice a friend, parent or teacher has ever given you?
• Write three goals for the rest of the school year. How are you going to accomplish them?
• What does responsibility mean to you? What are you responsible for at school and at home?
• What person in your life makes you feel confident?
• What scares you? How can you overcome your fears?
• Tell me about a time when you tried something new. How did it feel? Did you do it again?

Math writing prompts for kids

Whether it’s tackling word problems or explaining a new concept, writing is a surprisingly good tool for the math classroom. 

A math journal can help you understand what students already know, while giving them space to work through tricky concepts on their own. Use these writing prompts to promote literacy in every subject — and help students avoid math anxiety .

• Tell me everything you know about ________.
• Explain, in words, how to solve this problem.
• What is and isn’t true about this situation?
• What is _______?
• Explain two different ways to solve this problem. Which one is better?
• What did you get correct in this problem?
• What mistakes did you make while solving this problem?
• What do you not understand about _____?
• Write a word problem using the concept we’re learning about. 
• What did you learn today?
• How do you use math in your everyday life?
• What is the easiest/hardest part of math class?
• What discoveries did you make in math class today?

Final thoughts on writing prompts for kids

Writing prompts aren’t the end of the story — they’re just the beginning. Encourage your students to build a regular writing practice, and soon you’ll see the benefits in every class. 

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25 Engaging 9th Grade Journal Prompts That Will Inspire Expression and Creativity

For any ninth-grader, high school can be an overwhelming experience. Along with difficult classes, social pressures, and extracurricular activities, students have to navigate new environments and make important decisions about their futures. Journaling can be an effective way for students to sort out their thoughts and emotions, set goals, and reflect on their daily experiences. At this point in students’ lives, it is even more important for them to take time to check-in with themselves and prioritize their mental health.

To help guide students in their journaling practice, we have compiled a list of thought-provoking prompts that will encourage reflection and introspection. These prompts cover a variety of topics and are designed to help students explore various aspects of their lives, such as their personal values, relationships, and academic goals. By engaging with these prompts on a regular basis, students can develop a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Whether students are experienced journalers or are just starting out, these prompts are intended to help them cultivate a habit of self-reflection and foster a sense of mindfulness. We believe that journaling is a valuable tool for students of all ages, and we hope that these prompts will inspire ninth-graders to make it a part of their daily routine. With consistent practice, journaling can help students feel more centered, confident, and in control of their lives. Creative Writing Prompts for 9th Grade

Creative writing is an excellent way for students to express themselves and explore their imaginations. As a teacher, you can encourage your 9th-grade students to write creatively by providing them with interesting prompts. Here are fifteen creative writing prompts you can use in your class:

• Write a short story about a character who wakes up one morning with the ability to read minds.
• Describe a perfect day in detail, from waking up to going to bed.
• Write a poem about a place that makes you feel relaxed.
• Create a character who is a superhero with a unique power and describe a day in their life.
• Write a scene that takes place in a world without electricity.
• Describe a character who is torn between loyalty to their family and their loyalty to their friends.
• Create a story that involves time travel.
• Write a short story from the perspective of an animal.
• Describe what it’s like to walk through a forest at night.
• Create a story that involves a treasure hunt.
• Write a poem about a person who inspires you.
• Describe a character who wakes up in a strange place with no memory of how they got there.
• Create a story that involves a character who can see into the future.
• Write a scene that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world.
• Describe a character who is faced with a difficult decision.

These prompts are just the beginning. Encourage your 9th-grade students to write outside of class and explore their creativity even further. Keep in mind that prompts are a starting point, and students should feel free to take them in any direction they choose. Creative writing is a great way for students to express themselves and develop their writing skills, so be sure to incorporate it into your classroom whenever you can.

Remember to provide guidance and support to your students as they write. Offer feedback and encouragement to help them improve their writing skills and hone their creativity. Creative writing is a powerful tool that can help students develop their writing abilities and their creativity, so make sure to include it as a regular part of your English curriculum.

Reflective Journal Prompts for 9th Grade

Reflective journal prompts are a great way to help 9th-grade students explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and develop critical-thinking skills. Through reflective writing, students can understand themselves, their relationships, and the world around them. Here are 15 reflective journal prompts for 9th grade:

• What do you enjoy most about school?
• What do you find challenging about school?
• What are your biggest strengths, and how can you use them to improve your academic performance?
• What are your biggest weaknesses, and how can you work on improving them?
• What are your goals for this school year, academically and personally?
• What is your definition of success and how can you achieve it?
• What are you passionate about, and how can you pursue your passions?
• What are the biggest changes you have experienced in your life, and how have they impacted you?
• What are your personal values, and how do they shape the decisions you make?
• What makes you happy, and what do you believe is the key to happiness?
• What are some of the biggest challenges facing the world today, and how can you contribute to solving them?
• What are some of the most important relationships in your life, and how do they impact you?
• What are some of the things that make you feel stressed, and how do you deal with stress?
• What are some of the things that make you feel anxious, and how do you cope with anxiety?
• What are some of the things that make you feel excited, and how do you harness that excitement to achieve your goals?

Reflective journal prompts are a tool for self-discovery and self-improvement. They help students develop emotional and cognitive skills, and understand themselves and others better. Reflective writing is also a great way to improve writing skills and express oneself through the written word. Encourage 9th-grade students to use these reflective journal prompts regularly to foster a sense of self-awareness and growth.

Overall, reflective journal prompts are an excellent way for 9th-grade students to explore their inner thoughts and emotions. They provide an effective platform for personal exploration and self-improvement. By engaging in reflective writing, students can gain greater insight into themselves and become more mindful of their cognitive and emotional processes.

Personal Narrative Prompts for 9th Grade

Personal narratives are a type of writing that allows students to reflect on their experiences, thoughts, and emotions. It is a great way to help them express themselves and develop their writing skills. Here are 15 personal narrative prompts that are perfect for 9th-grade students:

• Write about a time when you had to overcome a challenge.
• Describe a memorable experience from your childhood.
• Write about a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
• Describe a moment when you felt proud of yourself.
• Write about a time when you had to apologize to someone.
• Describe a time when you were nervous about trying something new.
• Write about a person who has influenced your life and explain why.
• Describe a time when you helped someone in need.
• Write about a time when you learned an important lesson.
• Describe a moment that changed your life forever.
• Write about a time when you felt like giving up but didn’t.
• Describe a time when you experienced failure and how you bounced back.
• Write about a place that holds special meaning to you.
• Describe a time when you felt like an outsider.
• Write about a time when you felt like you had to stand up for what you believed in.

Personal narrative prompts for 9th graders give students the opportunity to reflect on their experiences and share their stories with others. It allows them to develop their writing skills and learn how to express themselves in a creative and engaging way. These prompts will help students to explore their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and create a meaningful piece of writing that they can be proud of.

Encourage your students to spend some time reflecting on each prompt before they begin writing. This will help them to develop their ideas and ensure that they create a powerful and engaging personal narrative that resonates with readers.

Literary Analysis Prompts for 9th Grade

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As a 9th grade student, you will be introduced to various literature pieces such as novels, poems, and short stories. One way to improve your understanding and analytical skills of these literary works is by responding to prompts. These prompts will help you to critically analyze different elements of a literary piece such as the theme, characters, plot, and literary devices. Here are 15 literary analysis prompts for 9th grade:

• How does the author develop the theme of identity in the novel/poem/short story?
• Compare and contrast the character traits of two main characters of the novel/poem/short story.
• What role do symbols play in the novel/poem/short story? Provide examples.
• Explain how the author uses imagery to convey a specific mood or tone in the novel/poem/short story.
• Discuss the use of foreshadowing in the novel/poem/short story and its impact on the plot.
• What literary devices does the author use in the novel/poem/short story to create a specific effect? Provide examples.
• How does the setting contribute to the theme of the novel/poem/short story?
• Explain the point of view of the narrator in the novel/poem/short story and its impact on the reader.
• What is the significance of the title of the novel/poem/short story?
• In what ways does the protagonist change throughout the novel/poem/short story?
• Examine the use of metaphor in the novel/poem/short story and explain its significance.
• Describe the imagery used to create a sense of place in the novel/poem/short story.
• How does the author use dialogue to reveal character traits in the novel/poem/short story?
• What message does the author convey through the use of the allegory in the novel/poem/short story?
• Discuss the use of irony in the novel/poem/short story and its impact on the reader.

By responding to these prompts, you will be developing your critical thinking skills while deepening your understanding of the literary works. This activity will not only help you to comprehend the elements of the story but also to improve your writing skills as you will learn to express your ideas, opinions, and interpretations in the form of a written response.

Remember that there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to literary analysis, it depends on one’s interpretation and perspective. These prompts are designed to encourage you to think analytically and creatively when analyzing a literary work.

Expository Writing Prompts for 9th Grade: Subtopic number 5

Expository writing is all about informing, explaining, and clarifying ideas, concepts, or topics in a clear and concise manner. In the 9th grade, students are expected to be able to identify and apply different writing techniques that can help them to capture the reader’s attention and convey their message effectively. Here are 15 expository writing prompts for 9th grade students that can help them to develop their writing skills:

• Explain the importance of time management in achieving academic success.
• How does technology impact our daily lives?
• What are the different types of renewable and non-renewable energy sources?
• Differentiate between the different kinds of government systems.
• How does stress affect the human body and mind?
• Explain the key elements of public speaking.
• The impact of social media on communication
• How to be successful in college
• Explain the main components of a healthy lifestyle
• How to write an effective essay
• The importance of reading for personal growth and development
• What are the different types of mental disorders and how can people deal with them?
• Explain how culture influences people’s lives and perspectives.
• How to build successful long-term relationships with people?
• What are the different types of leadership styles and how do they impact organizations?

These expository writing prompts can help 9th grade students to develop their critical thinking skills, expand their knowledge, and improve their ability to express themselves clearly and effectively. When choosing a topic, it is important to choose something that is interesting and relevant to the students’ lives. Students must also be able to provide evidence and examples to support their ideas. Finally, students should make sure that their writing is organized and structured in a logical manner. With practice, these skills can be developed and polished, resulting in more effective writing and better academic performance overall.

Overall, these prompts offer an excellent starting point for any 9th grade student who wants to improve their expository writing skills. The prompts allow the students to express their ideas in a clear and concise manner, while also ensuring that they are providing evidence to support their viewpoints. By practicing these writing prompts, students will master the art of expository writing, develop their critical thinking skills, and increase their overall writing proficiency.

Opinion writing prompts for 9th grade

Opinion writing is a type of writing where the writer expresses their opinion on a topic. In 9th grade, students are expected to express their opinions in a clear and concise manner. Here are 15 examples of opinion writing prompts for 9th graders:

• Do you think social media has a positive or negative impact on society? Explain your opinion.
• Should students be required to wear uniforms in school? Why or why not?
• Do you believe that standardized tests accurately measure a student’s abilities? Why or why not?
• Should the driving age be raised to 18? Why or why not?
• Do you think that violent video games should be banned? Why or why not?
• Should the government provide free college education for all students? Why or why not?
• Do celebrities have a responsibility to be positive role models for young people? Why or why not?
• Are professional athletes paid too much? Why or why not?
• Should animal testing be banned? Why or why not?
• Do you believe that it is the government’s responsibility to provide healthcare for all citizens? Why or why not?
• Should the legal drinking age be lowered to 18? Why or why not?
• Do you believe that alternative energy sources, such as wind and solar power, are effective solutions to our energy needs? Why or why not?
• Should schools be allowed to censor student-led protests and demonstrations? Why or why not?
• Do you think that violent criminals should be given the death penalty? Why or why not?
• Should students be allowed to grade their teachers? Why or why not?

These prompts are designed to encourage 9th graders to think critically and form their own opinions on a variety of topics. It is important for students to learn how to express their opinions in a clear and concise manner, while also being able to support their viewpoints with logical reasoning and evidence.

Opinion writing is an essential skill that students will use throughout their academic and professional careers. By practicing opinion writing, 9th graders will become better communicators, critical thinkers, and problem-solvers.

Descriptive Writing Prompts for 9th Grade

Descriptive writing allows students to explore their creativity and express their emotions and thoughts using vivid details and sensory language. It helps students to develop their ability to use words in a way that produces imagery in the reader’s mind. As a 9th-grade teacher, you can use descriptive writing prompts to help your students improve their writing skills and build their vocabulary.

• Describe a place that is special to you and explain why it is significant.
• Describe a feeling of anxiety or nervousness and how you cope with it.
• Describe the first time you fell in love, and how it made you feel.
• Describe a person who has influenced your life, and explain how.
• Describe a day that you will never forget, and what made it so memorable.
• Describe a food that you absolutely love, and explain why it is your favorite.
• Describe a pet that you have or wish you could have, and what makes it special.
• Describe a place you have never been but would love to visit, and what draws you to it.
• Describe a character from a book or movie that you admire, and why.
• Describe a time when you felt proud of something you accomplished.
• Describe a difficult decision you had to make, and how you went about it.
• Describe a sunset or sunrise, and what emotions it evokes in you.
• Describe a memory from your childhood that you cherish, and why.
• Describe a time when you had to stand up for what you believe in.
• Describe a personal achievement that you’re most proud of, and why.

By engaging students in descriptive writing prompts, you are not only helping them to develop their writing skills but also honing their creativity and critical thinking. With regular practice, your students can learn how to use descriptive writing to express themselves effectively in any situation.

Encourage your students to use vivid and sensory language, including sight, smell, sound, taste, and touch, to create a lasting impression on the reader. Also, remind them to organize their ideas logically, using appropriate transitional words, and edit their work for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors.

Frequently Asked Questions About 9th Grade Journal Prompts

1. what are 9th grade journal prompts.

9th grade journal prompts are writing prompts designed to encourage self-reflection and creative expression for students in their first year of high school.

2. How can journal prompts benefit 9th graders?

Journal prompts can benefit 9th graders by promoting self-awareness, critical thinking, and improved writing skills. By reflecting on their experiences and feelings, students can gain a better understanding of themselves and their place in the world.

3. Where can I find 9th grade journal prompts?

There are many online resources where you can find 9th grade journal prompts, including educational websites, writing blogs, and social media platforms. Your school may also have a curriculum that includes journaling or provide prompts as part of writing assignments.

4. Do I have to share my journal entries with others?

No, you do not have to share your journal entries with others. Journaling is a personal activity that is meant to be private. However, sharing your experiences with a trusted friend or family member can be helpful in providing support and insight.

5. How often should I write in my journal?

You can write in your journal as often or as little as you like. Some students may choose to write every day, while others may write once a week. The important thing is to find a schedule that works for you and to be consistent.

6. What if I’m not good at writing?

Journaling is not about being a good writer. It’s about expressing your thoughts and feelings in a way that feels authentic to you. Don’t worry about grammar, spelling, or punctuation. Just write from the heart.

7. Can I use journal prompts for other grades?

Absolutely! Journal prompts can be used for students of all ages and grade levels. However, you may need to modify the prompts based on the reading and writing level of your students.

Closing: Thanks for Exploring 9th Grade Journal Prompts!

We hope these FAQs have helped you better understand the benefits of 9th grade journal prompts and how you can incorporate them into your writing practice. Remember, the most important thing is to be honest and authentic in your writing. Thanks for reading, and we invite you to visit our site again for more educational resources. Happy journaling!

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10 College Success Skills Journal Prompts for Student Growth and Development

June 18, 2023

5th Grade Daily Journal Prompts: Encouraging Self-Expression and Reflection

20 Thought-Provoking Journal Prompts for 9th Graders

Stepping into high school can be a daunting challenge for your child. They might struggle with the onslaught of discovering themselves while transitioning into adulthood. While they will navigate through the differences, either way, you need to ensure that they don’t get sidetracked or find themselves in bad company. After all, this is the time that will largely determine who they grow up to be. Despite the innumerable benefits of mindful writing , it might be that your son or daughter doesn’t know how to prioritize it yet. They might not know what to write about, and that monotony may serve as a barrier. Thus, you must give them great journal prompts for 9th graders. Developing and maintaining interest will be easy if it sparks curiosity according to their level of awareness about the world. 

The prompts in this article will give them a greater sense of who they are and where they want to go from here. So let’s dive in! 

Why Journal Prompts for 9th Graders are Important

‘But isn’t diary writing for kids?’, you might wonder. ‘Why should I encourage my teenage son or daughter to get into it? It just seems ludicrous’. 

While many have the conventional notion that journaling is just for teenage girls writing about their secret crush Josh, the truth is far from it. Developing greater self-awareness is not for a specific gender and there is no age requirement for exploring multi-faceted questions.

The sooner you understand the “Know Thyself” mantra, the better. The world around us is not sunshine and rainbows. We must ensure that our children resort to healthy coping mechanisms for their emotional well-being. 

Here are three reasons why journal prompts for 9th graders are so important: 

It Gives a Sense of Identity

“I used to be such a happy kid. Now my mother criticizes me, and I think she doesn’t like me. I don’t even blame her. Who could love me? I am so ugly after all.”

“Is Ashley really my friend? She ignored me as I tried to talk to her. We’re not even close anymore. Sometimes I feel like she hates me.”

“Josh looked at me today and smiled. He is so cute. Is it possible that he likes me?”

“Omg, why did I say that? God, I feel so stupid. I hate myself. I’m never going to recover from this. I just want to isolate myself.” 

These are just some of the questions that start popping into your mind as the bubble of childhood bursts and makes space for new experiences. 

You suddenly find yourself in a whirlwind of emotions, friendships, dating , school, and peer pressure. Ultimately you have this need to fit in, which is not wrong. 

But we need to be mindful of who we decide to associate with. That is why taking small steps toward self-awareness and shifting the narrative is essential.

Prompts help create a lens to target worries and narrow down scattered and disorganized thoughts. 

• “What do I like about myself?”
• “What is my favorite pastime?”
• “What makes me feel good?”

Although it may strike you as absurd, these will help smooth things out. This is especially true for the ninth grader just beginning to step into the world. 

It Is a Great Source of Emotional Outlet

As an adult, you might struggle with regulating your emotions in healthy and socially acceptable ways. You might even have trouble managing your inclinations and impulsive tendencies. And that is amusing, considering you’re not particularly new to these intense emotions.

Now picture an individual going through their developmental stages and experiencing these intense emotions for the first time. There is a reason why teenage years are difficult for both the parents and their offspring alike. 

Doesn’t sound that hard? Picture a 30-student class of hormonal and emotional individuals slowly unveiling the hard truths about life. 

These may include the realization that people to whom they thought they were close did not reciprocate their sincerity. Or that their parents are not always right. 

They might be peer pressured into bad habits as an escape. Parental pressure and validation from one’s friends may result in bottled-up frustration. Irrational rebellion is not surprising at this age.

Journaling will allow a safe space for the expression of such emotions. It’s a way of navigating friendships, dating, family-related issues, and the inevitable drama of the 9th-grade classroom. 

It Allows the Exploration of Various Themes and Interests

Open-ended journal prompts for 9th graders are a great way to spark their imagination. There are loads of themes, topics, and ideas to get into. These may include dreams, hopes, and aspirations. This will encourage them to be open to all sorts of ideas. 

It is a great way to kickstart their creativity . For a moment, blur the lines between perceived possibility and impossibility. 

• Who would you be if there were no imposed restrictions? 
• What is something you would like to do forever? 
• Do you believe in religion? What are the reasons for your belief?
• What do you want to do in terms of your career? Are you in it for passion or money? 
• How do you feel about yourself?
• If you could travel anywhere you wanted to, where would you go? 

See? These are simple questions, and yet they may encourage any individual to think about what they want. Even if the answer seems indefinite, it is discoverable through a bit of introspection. 

While teenagers may not be comfortable talking about their emotions, writing is a relatively safer method. They will not feel judged or instantly reprimanded for their valid and understandable emotions and ideas. 

Plus, it means less time wasted on other less fruitful activities. Win-on-win for everyone involved, isn’t it? 

Common Issues 9th graders are dealing with

Technological advancement has made phones an indispensable part of our lives. Whether it is for staying connected with friends, studies, or work , it’s impossible to negate its importance. 

For ninth graders, social media can open a gateway to problematic thoughts and behaviors. It is important to remember that there’s not much truth in how people portray themselves online. There is misinformation and false narratives on how your life should be. 

These may present problems relating to self-esteem , self-image, body image, peer pressure, and even an unconscious perpetuation of prejudice. 

Although these problems existed even during the pre-social media era, they are more severe now. Everyone has access to everything, even things that may bring more harm than good. 

Consider this: According to research by Elflein , self-harm or suicide was the second leading cause of death among teenagers aged 15 to 19 years. The typical age for ninth graders in the US is about 14 to 15. 

What exactly is happening to incur such a noticeable tragedy? It is worth noting that such problems do not arise all at once. They grow slowly as ideas turn into beliefs. 

The difference between grades eight and nine can be too difficult to be manageable by the student alone. 

Instead of perpetuating unhealthy thought and behavioral patterns, let’s make emotions manageable for kids. Journaling is an effective way to do that. 

So, the next time they feel something, they have a pen and paper to express it. There ought to be a curriculum specifically designed to cater to emotional expression. 

Now, how can we do that? Let’s find out the roles of the two most important forces at play: home and school. 

How to introduce journaling to 9th graders

How can we introduce journaling prompts for 9th graders in a way that doesn’t seem too overwhelming or overbearing? 

Getting a teenager to do anything is quite a challenge. But there are ways to help them discover journaling and its benefits. Let’s break down our theoretical knowledge into executable steps. 

How To Encourage Journaling as a Parent

Although it may seem that way, your child does not hate you. They may harbor resentment , sure. But if you’re consistently improving yourself and switching parenting styles as required, chances are they’re probably stressed about something else. 

Now, what can you do as their guardian? Introduce journaling as a coping mechanism for stress.  Be considerate of their likes and dislikes. What’s their favorite color? Is there a fictional character they like? 

Get them a journal that represents their taste. Your teen will automatically feel drawn to it. It’s important to remember that journaling isn’t just writing. It comprises list-making, doodling, drawing, and just scribbling words or phrases. 

Give them enough space to use it as they prefer.  If they’re Potterhead, get them cool stationery such as these Paper House Productions stickers. This will foster creativity by allowing them to personalize their journal. 

How To Encourage Journaling as a Teacher 

Academic institutions play an essential role in encouraging or discouraging certain activities. 

Reflect on your life: how many times did you participate in a class or at least enjoyed learning simply because your teacher was good? 

Maybe their lecture was engaging, or they posed thought-provoking questions. It could also be that they just had a kind demeanor and you felt understood by them. 

Either way, it made the task at hand easier. Let’s apply the same rules here. 

Whatever your students write, be mindful of any conscious or unconscious invalidation of emotions. Your role here is to create a safe space for expression. That includes not judging or criticizing emotions.

Next, offer them constructive feedback. Is there a specific problem they’re dealing with? Help them out with it. Make it overt or subtle depending on the temperament of the student involved.  

Bonus Tip: 

Create a positive association with a particular routine. When are your students most active? When do you think they’ll enjoy it the most? 

Try not to give extensive journaling exercises when tests or quizzes are due. Make it as simplified as possible and see your students thrive. 

You can also check out the following video for some back-to-school journal inspiration! 

20 Great Journal Prompts for 9th graders

• What are your hopes and dreams for the future?
• What are your biggest fears and how do you plan to overcome them?
• Write about a meaningful experience you had in your life so far.
• Who is someone you look up to and why?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses and how do you plan to improve upon them?
• If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be and why?
• Write about a time you showed courage or resilience in the face of adversity.
• What are your favorite subjects in school and why?
• What are your future career goals and how do you plan to achieve them?
• Write about a hobby or interest that you are passionate about.
• What are your values and how do you plan to incorporate them into your daily life?
• Write about a time you took a risk and what you learned from it.
• What is one place you have always wanted to visit and why?
• Write about a person who has had a significant impact on your life.
• What is one thing you are grateful for in your life and why?
• What are some ways you can contribute to your community and make a positive impact?
• Write about a time you failed and what you learned from the experience.
• What are your plans for after high school and how do you plan to prepare for it?
• What is one thing you want to learn more about and why?
• Reflect on your personal growth over the past year and set some goals for the future.

Final Thoughts

Journaling has numerous proven benefits for mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It’s an effective way to detach yourself from your thoughts by putting pen to paper. 

So, whether you’re a parent or a teacher, ensure that your child/student feels heard. Become their best friend. And make journaling their sanctuary, so they have something to resort to even when you’re not there. 

We hope our list of journal prompts for 9th graders proves to be fruitful in sparking and retaining interest. Remember, everyone is doing their best and learning at their own pace. Always be kind to others. 

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300 Fun Writing Prompts for Kids: Story Starters, Journal Prompts & Ideas

Are you a parent or teacher? Here are 300 fun and creative writing prompts for kids to spark the imagination of young writers everywhere. Use these kids writing ideas as journaling prompts, story starters or just for fun!

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It’s never too early to start writing, and so we’ve created this fun list of 300 creative kids writing prompts for teacher and parents to use.

You’ll love these fun ideas for kids writing prompts to use as creative sparks to get young imaginations writing in no time!

These are perfect to use as kids journal writing prompts, as short story writing prompts, or just for exercises to help students and children of all ages tap into their creativity. Maybe your kids will write an essay, maybe a poem, or maybe even a whole book!

Whether you are a teacher or parent looking to inspire your kids to write, or maybe even an adult who would like to practice writing with a more playful and young-hearted approach, I hope you find these creative writing prompts inspiring!

Buy the Printable Cards!  We will always have this list of 300 kids writing prompts available for free, but I’m very excited to now also offer an  ad-free printable version of these prompts  in my online Etsy shop. Thank you for your support!

The Ultimate List of 300 Fun & Creative Writing Prompts for Kids

#1. Imagine a giant box is delivered to your front doorstep with your name on it. What’s inside and what happens when you open it?

#2. Write a short story about what it might be like if you woke up one morning with a mermaid tail.

#3. Which is better, winter or summer? Write about the reasons why you think winter or summer is better.

#4. Write about what would it be like if you had an alligator as a pet.

#5. If you had $1,000, what would you buy and why?

#6. Write a story using these 5 words: apple, train, elephant, paper, banjo

#7. What do you want be when you grow up and why?

#8. Who is your favorite person on the planet? What do you like most about that person?

#9. If you could have any secret super power, what would you want it to be and why?

#10. Write about 3 places you would like to travel someday. What do these three places have in common?

#11. Write about a time you felt really happy. What happened? What made you feel happy?

#12. Imagine what would happen if someone shrunk you down to be only 1″ tall. How would your life change?

#13. If you were in charge of the whole world, what would you do to make the world a happier place?

#14. Write a story about what it would be like to climb to the very top of the highest mountain in the world.

#15. If you were in charge of planning the school lunch menu, what foods would you serve each day?

#16. What are some of your favorite animals? What do you like about them?

#17. Imagine that dogs take over the world. What do they make the humans do?

#18. Write a story about flying to outer space and discovering a new planet.

#19. You are a mad scientist and have invented a new vegetable. What is it called? What does it look like? What does it taste like? Most importantly: Is it safe to eat?

#20. You go to school one morning to discover your best friend has been turned into a frog by an evil witch! How do you help your friend?

#21. Describe what it is like when trees lose all of their leaves in the autumn season.

#22. Write about your favorite sport and why you like it so much.

#23. Imagine what it might be like to live on a boat all the time and write about it.

#24. If you had one wish, what would it be?

#25. Write about what you might do if you have the super power to become invisible.

#26. You are walking through the forest when one of the trees starts talking to you. What does it say? What do you do?

#27. The weather forecast is calling for a blizzard in the middle of the summer. What do you do?

#28. What types of transportation will people have in the future?

#29. What were some of your favorite toys when you very little? Do you still enjoy playing with them?

#30. What would a day in your life be like if you were a movie star?

#31. Imagine you’ve invented a time machine! What year do you travel to?

#32. What are your favorite things to do over summer vacation?

#33. What is your favorite holiday and why?

#34. If you could meet any fictional character from a book, who would it be?

#35. You are writing a travel guide for kids visiting your city. What places do you think they should visit?

#36. What is a food you hate? Write about it!

#37. Imagine what it would be like if there was no electricity. What would be different in your daily routine?

#38. You are building a new city! What types of things do you think your city needs? How will you convince people to move to your new city?

#39. What is your favorite movie? Write your review of the movie and why you think people should watch it.

#40. Imagine you get a magic sweater for your birthday. What happens when you wear the sweater? What do you do with these new found magical powers?

#41. You are the security guard at the zoo and someone has stolen a rhinoceros! How do you track down the thief?

#42. You have been invited to have lunch with the queen. What foods do you eat and what topics do you and the queen discuss?

#43. If you could design a school uniform, what types of clothes would you suggest? What colors would they be?

#44. Imagine you are a reporter interviewing a celebrity about their life. What questions do you ask?

#45. You are running a lemonade stand. Describe the steps for how you make lemonade and the types of customers you see during the day.

#46. Write a story about being the ruler of an underwater world.

#47. Write an acrostic poem for the word “treehouse”.

#48. You decide to grow a sunflower, but the sunflower grows so tall it reaches up to the sky! Write about what happens when you decide to climb to the top. What do you discover?

#49. Imagine you look out the window and it is raining popsicles from the sky! Write a story about the experience.

#50. If you could be any animal, which one would you be and why?

#51. If you were on a spaceship, what would you be most excited about seeing?

#52. Do you have any pets at home? Write an essay about how you take care of your pets. If you do not have a pet, what type of pet might you like?

#53. Imagine you are opening a store that only sells items which are blue. What types of items do you sell?

#54. Have you ever lost something that is important to you? Were you able to find it?

#55. Write a story about a kid who is moving to a new school. How do you think they might feel?

#56. Rewrite the ending of your favorite fairy tale. For example, what would have happened if Cinderella never went to the ball?

#57. Have you ever forgotten to do your homework? What happened?

#58. Do you have a favorite song? Write about the type of music you like to listen to.

#59. Imagine your parents wake you up one morning to tell you they will take you to do anything you want to do for the whole day – you don’t even have to go to school or do your chores. What would you choose to do and why?

#60. Do you like amusement parks? What are some of your favorite rides?

#61. Write a story using these three words: detective, piano, and pizza.

#62. Have you ever been to the beach? Write about your favorite things to do. If you have never been to the beach, what would you like to do the first time you visit?

#63. Is there a favorite tv show you like to watch? Write about your favorite character and why they are your favorite.

#64. Write a poem using onomatopoeia , where the words you use are pronounced similar to the sound they make. For example, buzz, bark, sizzle, slam and pop.

#65. Have you ever had to stand in line to wait a long time for something? What did you do while you waited? How did you feel while waiting? How did you feel once the wait was over?

#66. Is it a good idea to keep ALL secrets a secret? Write about examples of when it is okay to spill a secret – and when it isn’t.

#67. Is there something you are good at doing? Write about your best strengths.

#68. What historical time period and location would you go back to live in if you could? Write about it!

#69. Write about 5 things you can do that are important for you to stay healthy and safe.

#70. Do you think thunderstorms are scary? Why or why not?

#71. What would you most like to learn over the next year? Think about things that interest you or questions you might have about the world and make a list!

#72. You are going on a trip to a jungle safari! What items do you pack in your suitcase?

#73. Imagine you are sitting at home one day and you hear someone shrieking in the living room they see a mouse in the house! Write a story about what might happen next.

#74. You are writing a letter to someone who is having a hard time making new friends at school. What do you write? What advice do you give them?

#75. Imagine you just met a magician – but their beloved rabbit who they pull out of a hat for all the tricks has been kidnapped! How do you help find the rabbit?

#76. Do you hear what I hear? Set a timer for 5 minutes and write about all of the sounds you hear in those 5 minutes.

#77. Imagine you go to get a haircut and they accidentally shave your head! How do you feel about that and what would you do?

#78. Do you find it easy to talk to people you don’t know? What are some ways you can start up a conversation with someone you have never met before?

#79. Are there any chores you have to do at home? What are they? What do you like – and not like – about each one?

#80. Open up a random book to any page. Write for 5 minutes about the first word you read.

#81. Pretend you are a writer for your city’s newspaper. Who would you like to interview for a news story and why?

#82. There are many fictional characters who live in unusual houses, such as the old woman who lived in a shoe. What kind of unusual house would you like to live in? Write about what it would be like to live in an unusual house!

#83. Write a list of 10 things you can do to practice kindness to others.

#84. Is there a homework subject you dread? Why do you not like getting homework in that subject?

#85. What is your favorite month of the year? Write about why you like it and some of your favorite things to do during that month.

#86. Imagine you are planning a surprise birthday party for someone. How do you keep it a surprise?

#87. Pretend you walked outside to find a sleeping dragon in the grass! Why is the dragon there? Is it a friendly dragon? What do you do? Write about it!

#88. What are you grateful for today and why?

#89. You were on your way to a very important event when you fell into a puddle. Now what?

#90. Have you ever watched a movie and didn’t like how it ended? Write what you think should happen instead.

#91. Can you answer this riddle from Alice in Wonderland ? How is a raven like a writing desk?

#92. Imagine you are the captain of a pirate ship. Write a diary entry for what your day was like.

#93. If you could start any type of business, what kind of business would you start? What types of products or services would you provide?

#94. Write a sequel to one of your favorite fairy tales. For example, what was Goldilocks’s next adventure after she left the bears?

#95. What is something you are afraid of? What helps you to feel less afraid of something? What would you say to a friend who feels scared to help them feel less afraid?

#96. Write a letter to your future self in 20 years.

#97. In addition to basic survival needs such as food, water, air and shelter, what are 3 things you would you need to be happy?

#98. If you could invent a robot of any type who could do anything you imagine, what types of things would you would have the robot to do?

#99. Which do like better? Apples or Oranges? How are they alike? How are they different?

#100. Why did the chicken cross the road? You are a detective and are assigned to the case. How do solve the mystery?

#101. Write instructions for how to make your favorite snack. Be sure you add your favorite tips and suggestions for how to select the best ingredients!

#102. Imagine you borrowed a friend’s favorite lucky pencil to help you pass a math test – but then it snapped in half! How will you ever tell the news to your friend?

#103. Look around the current room you are sitting in and choose 3 random objects that are nearby. Now write a story or poem that includes those three items!

#104. Write a letter to the author of a book you recently read and tell them what you liked most about the book.

#105. Ernest Hemingway is famous for writing a six word story. Can you write a story in just 6 words?

#106. What do you think will be the future for cell phones? Will people still use them in 25 years or will something else take its place?

#107. Do you want to go to college? Why or why not?

#108. Write a story or poem about a kitten who wanders off and gets lost. How does the kitten find its way home?

#109. Currently, it is required by law that kids go to school. Do you think this is a good or bad idea?

#110. If you could invent a new board game, what would it be called? How is it played? What are the rules? What makes it fun to play? Write about it!

#111. Imagine you come home to discover your entire bedroom is covered in ketchup! What on earth happened? What is your reaction? How do you clean everything up?

#112. What is something you learned today?

#113. Would you rather have a goldfish or shark as a pet?

#114. From A-Z: make a list of something for every letter of the alphabet.

#115. Have you ever gone fishing? If you have, did you like it? Why or why not? If you haven’t, do you think you might want to?

#116. What is one of the most important things you do each and every day?

#117. Write a story about Gretchen the Grouch, a girl who is always angry! Will she ever be happy? Why is she so grumpy all of the time?

#118. How do you feel when someone takes something of yours without asking? What is a good way to deal with it when that happens?

#119. Write a poem that starts with the word “if”.

#120. Write a story about a family of rabbits who live in the woods. What are some of the challenges they face?

#121. What clothes do you think are the most comfortable? What kind of clothes do you like to wear the most? What clothes do you NOT like to wear?

#122. Imagine there are no grocery stores and you must get your own food. What are some of the ways you find food? What types of things do you eat?

#123. What are 3 things you can do that are good for the environment?

#124. If you could meet any famous person today, who would you want to meet and why? What questions might you ask them?

#125. A tongue twister is a quick poem where many of the words start with the same letter and are similar in sound. For example, “Peter picked a peck of pickled peppers.” Try writing your own with this fun kids writing prompt!

#126. What is the first thing you think of when you hear or see the word green?

#127. A hero is someone who is admired for their courage and achievements. What do you think makes someone a hero? Who are some of your heroes?

#128. What did you do during summer vacation last year? What do you want to do for summer vacation this year?

#129. Write a story about a super hero dog who saves the day! Who does the dog help and why?

#130. Would you rather live somewhere that is always cold, or somewhere that is always hot? Write about which one you would rather choose.

#131. Have you ever volunteered to help a charity? If so, write about the experience! If not, what are some charities you think you might like to volunteer for?

#132. What does the word courage mean to you?

#133. What makes you unique? What are some things about you that make you an individual?

#134. Have you ever been to a museum? What is your favorite thing to look at on display?

#135. What can you do to set a good example for others to be kind?

#136. A Tall Tale is a story that exaggerates something that actually happened. Write a tall tale about something that recently happened to you.

#137. What is one of your favorite toys that you think you might still want to have and play with when you are 22 years old?

#138. Oh no! Everyone around you is sick with a nasty cold! Write a silly poem about how you try to avoid catching their germs!

#139. Personification is when a non-living object takes on human characteristics. Write a story where you personify a common electronic gadget in your house, such as the Television or toaster.

#140. Write a poem using similes, which is when you say an object is like something else. Here is an example of a simile: “Her eyes were as blue as the sky.”

#141. Have you ever read a book written by Dr. Suess? Write your own “Suess-style” story, complete with rhymes and made up words.

#142. Do you have any siblings? Think about what it might mean to be a good brother or sister and write about it!

#143. Make a list of questions to interview your parents or grandparents about what it was like when they were growing up as a kid. Then, ask them the questions and write about their answers!

#144. You are in charge of writing a new radio show just for kids! What topics will you talk about? What music do you play?

#145. What do you usually eat for breakfast every day? What, in your opinion, is the greatest breakfast food ever created? What makes it so great?

#146. Write a 12 line poem where every line is about a different month of the year.

#147. What is something you look forward to doing the most when you are an adult?

Use these prompts in your classroom!  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to inspire your students to write! Thank you for your support!

#148. Do you like to try new things? What is something new you have tried recently or would like to try?

#149. Imagine what it might be like to be alive in Egypt when the pyramids were built. Write about what it was like.

#150. A credo is a statement of personal beliefs. Try writing your own credo for things that you believe in and feel are important.

#151. The circus has come to town but they have no place to perform! How do you help the ringmaster find a place to put on a show?

#152. Do you like to act? What are some of your favorite actors or actresses? What do you think makes someone a good actor or actress?

#153. “Practice makes perfect” is a popular saying. What is something you like to practice so you can become better at it? A sport? A musical instrument? A special skill? Do you like to practice?

#154. Write about what it might be like to be water drops freezing and turning into ice.

#155. Do you think it is important to keep your room clean? What do you like about having a clean room?

#156. Imagine your parents are sending you away for a two week summer camp trip. Would you be excited? Why or why not?

#157. What are you currently learning about in history class? Write a fictional story about someone from the past you are learning about.

#158. Many wars have been fought in the past. Instead of going to war, what do you think countries could do to resolve their differences peacefully?

#159. Every year over 8 billion plastic bottles and cans are thrown away. What are some things you can do to help encourage your family and friends to recycle?

#160. Imagine if you were the principal of the school. What might you do differently? What things would you do that are the same? Write about it!

#161. Pretend that one day you are at your neighbor’s house and you notice a strange noise coming from the basement. You go downstairs to investigate to see a large machine running with many lights and buttons. Why is it there?

#162. Write an essay that starts with the line, “Tomorrow, I hope…”

#163. If you could give one thing to every child in the world, what would you want to give them?

#164. Do you have a piggy bank at home? How do you earn money to add to your savings?

#165. What qualities make a house a home? What are 3 things you think every house should have?

#166. Would you rather go scuba diving or rock climbing? Write about which one you think you would like to do more and why.

#167. Do you think it is a good idea for kids to write a daily journal? What are some of the benefits of writing every day?

#168. Do you like watching fireworks or are they too noisy? Write about a time when you saw fireworks in the sky.

#169. Oh no! Your friend has turned into a statue! How did this happen? What do you do? Does your friend ever turn back into a person again?

#170. If you could be any movie character, who would you be and why?

#171. A mysterious message appears in code on your computer screen. What could it mean?

#172. If you could go to work with one of your parents for a day, what do you think the day would be like? What types of things do your parents do at work all day long?

#173. Imagine you are the President and you are creating a new national holiday. What is your holiday about? How is it celebrated? What day of the year do you celebrate? Write about it!

#174. You won a never-ending lifetime supply of spaghetti noodles! What will you do with all of these noodles?

#175. Would you rather be a bunny rabbit or a hawk? Why did you choose the one you chose?

#176. Your teacher has been acting mysterious lately. After school one day, you notice a weird green light shining through underneath the door of your classroom. What do you do? What is happening with your teacher?

#177. Write an article about tips for how kids can be more organized and study well for tests.

#178. Look at any product in your house and read the ingredients labels. Research what each ingredient is. Do you think these ingredients are good or bad for people?

#179. If you were a doctor, what do you think would be the most important part of your job every day?

#180. The school librarian needs your help! A truck just arrived with 2,000 books and she can’t fit all the books onto the shelves! What do you do? How do you find a place to put all these books?

#181. Do you think it would be fun to plant a garden? What types of plants would you want to grow? Write about your garden ideas.

#182. What is a sport or activity you would like to try playing for the first time?

#183. Do you think kids should be allowed to do the same things as adults? What things do you think kids should be able to do that only grown-ups can?

#184. Imagine you and your parents switch places for a day. Your parents are the kids and you are now in charge! What would you do?

#185. Write a get-well letter to someone who has been sick. What can you say to make them feel better?

#186. If you could visit any planet in the solar system, which planet would you like to visit the most and why? Write about what it might be like.

#187. Have you ever been to a farm? What did you like about it? If you haven’t been to a farm, do you think you might like to visit one? Why or why not?

#188. The mayor of the city has a big problem and needs your help! What is the problem and how will you solve it?

#189. Pretend your little sister ate carrots for dinner and the next morning woke up with rabbit ears!  How did this happen? What do you do? Will she be a rabbit forever?

#190. Imagine you wake up in the morning to find out you get to relive any day of your life again for the whole day. What day would you want to experience again and why?

#191. Do you think you might like to be a firefighter? Why or why not?

#192. You are a lawyer and your client has been accused of stealing a car. How do you convince the jury your client is innocent?

#193. Think of the four elements: fire, air, earth, and water. Which of these four elements do you like the best?

#194. What would you do if you could be invisible for a whole day? Do you think you would enjoy it or be glad to be back to normal the next day? Write about it!

#195. Imagine you are a meteorologist and people are starting to get angry that your weather predictions are always wrong. What do you do?

#196. If you could create any law, what would it be? Why do you think the law is an important one to have?

#197. You are going incognito and need to hide to your identity so you aren’t recognized or discovered while you walk through the city. What type of disguise do you wear?

#198. Write a persuasive letter to your parents explaining why you should get a new pet. Make sure you provide a convincing argument they won’t be able to refuse!

#199. Your friend wants to do something dangerous. What should you do?

#200. How do you think the world would be different if there were no oceans?

#201. What do you do when someone disagrees with your opinions? Is there a better way to handle conflicting opinions?

#202. What do you think you as a kid could do to help encourage more people to read?

#203. Do you have a good luck charm? What makes this item lucky? When do you use it? How do you use it?

#204. What is at the end of a rainbow? Imagine you follow a rainbow to the end. What do you discover? Is it a pot of gold, or something else?

Use these prompts in your classroom!  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to inspire your students to write! Thank you for your support!

#205. What do you think the consequences should be for someone who is caught cheating on a test at school?

#206. Imagine you are riding your bike one day when you encounter an older kid who wants to steal your bike. What do you do?

#207. You are the lead singer and star of a famous rock and roll band, but there is one problem – your drummer is jealous of your fame! How do you solve this situation?

#208. If you could help a group of kids in any part of the world, what kids would you want to help the most and why? What are some things you think would help these kids?

#209. Everyone knows the house on the end of the street is haunted. What are some of the strange things that happen there? Why is the house haunted?

#210. You notice at school one day there is a door to a secret passage next to the janitor’s closet and decide to explore. Where does it lead? Why is it there? Do you go alone or bring a friend along?

#211. A bucket list is a list of things you want to accomplish in your lifetime. What are 5 things on your bucket list?

#212. Imagine the perfect treehouse or clubhouse for you and all of your friends as a place to hang out. Describe what it is like inside.

#213. Do you get bored easily? Make a list of things you can do whenever you feel like you are bored and there is nothing fun to do!

#214. Now vs. Then: Think about how today is different from one year ago. How have you changed? What things in your life are different?

#215. Write your autobiography about your life.

#216. It’s a heat wave! What do you do when the weather is hot? What are some of your favorite ways to stay cool?

#217. What are three important safety tips every kid should know to stay safe?

#218. What genre of books do you like to read the most? Write about the characteristics of the genre and list some of your favorite books as examples.

#219. Holiday Traditions: How does your family celebrate the different holidays and events? What are some traditions you do each and every year?

#220. Imagine one day in science class a science experiment goes terribly wrong and now you and all of your classmates have superpowers! What are your superpowers and what do you do with them?

#221. Who is favorite teacher? Why are they your favorite?

#222. You are baking a cake, but you accidentally put salt in the cake instead of sugar. Nobody will eat it! How do you feel? What will you do next time?

#223. Do you think it is important to have good table manners? What do you think some good manners to practice might be?

#224. Many schools no longer teach cursive handwriting. Do you think this is a good or bad thing? Do you know how to write cursive handwriting? Would you like to learn if you haven’t?

#225. If you were the owner of a theme park, what types of rides and attractions would have? Describe what they would be like and why people would want to visit your park.

#226. Your parents give you $100 to spend at the grocery store. What do you buy and why?

#227. Some people who are alive today grew up without computers or video games. What would you do if you didn’t have a computer or video games? How would life be different?

#228. You walk into your living room and discover there is a giant elephant standing there. How did the elephant get there? What do you do about it? How do you explain the elephant in the living room to your parents?

#229. Have you ever had a weird dream? What happened in the dream? What do you think it means?

#230. Do you like to draw or paint? Write a story inspired by a painting, doodle, or sketch.

#231. You are being sent on a mission to outer space to live in a space station for 5 years. What supplies do you pack and why?

#232. What is the scariest creature alive on earth? Describe in detail what makes it so horrifying.

#233. What do you think your pet might say if they could talk to you?

#234. Imagine your school is putting on a talent show. What act will you perform? What other acts will be in the show?

#235. If you could breathe under water, what would you do?

#236. What time of day do you think school should start? Write a convincing argument on why or why not the time of day school starts should change.

#237. If you were to start your own YouTube video channel, what would the videos on your channel be about?

#238. Do you like to cook? What are some things you like to make and eat?

#239. Your school is having a field day and you are in charge of planning the activities and games. What types of activities and games would you plan for the event?

#240. If you had a remote control drone that takes video of everything it sees from the sky and you could take it anywhere, what would you film? For example, the inside of a volcano or soar it over the plains of Africa.

#241. The Bermuda Triangle is an area of the ocean where many ships and planes have gone missing. Why do you think this could be? Write a story about what it might be like to travel there.

#242. There are 7 great wonders of the world – which one do you think is the most wonderful?

#243. If you could speak any foreign language fluently, which one would you like to speak and why?

#244. You are inventing a new flavor of ice cream! What is the new flavor called and what ingredients do you need to make it?

#245. Would you rather go to a baseball game or read a good book? What reasons do you have for your choice?

#246. You walk outside to get your mail and your mailbox starts talking to you! What does your mailbox have to say?

#247. Imagine you are a famous person. What are you most famous for? What is it like to be famous?

#248. What do you think would be the most fun job in the world to have? Give examples of why you think it would be a fun job to have.

#249. Write a poem about an object that is shiny and dazzling.

#250. Do you like to watch the Olympics? Why or why not? If yes, what is your favorite Olympic sport?

#251. What kind of car do you want to drive when you are older? Do you think learning to drive will be easy or hard?

#252. What do you think would make for a great gift to give someone on their birthday?

#253. Describe a time when you needed help and someone helped you. What did they help you with and how did it make you feel?

#254. If you could be any type of fruit or vegetable, what would you be and why?

Love these prompts?  Get the  ad-free printable version of these prompts  to use at home or in the classroom!

#255. Do you think it is more important to have a good imagination or have all the facts proven?

#256. Do you have a favorite aunt, uncle, or another relative? Write a story about their life and why you like to be with them.

#257. Think of a time you laughed really, really hard. What was so funny? Why were you laughing? Write about it!

#258. Write a poem about an emotion. For example: happy, sad, angry, embarrassed, guilty.

#259. Do you ever have a hard time falling asleep? What are some things that help you feel sleepy?

#260. If you could drive a car, where would you drive and why?

#261. Imagine you are trading places with your friend for a day. What will it be like to be at their house? What will your friend think while they are at your house? Write about it!

#262. If you could break a world record, what would it be? What do you think would be necessary to be able to break the world record?

#263. Imagine you live in Colonial times. What would it be like to grow up as a kid in Colonial America?

#264. You are building a new city. What is the name of your city? What is the weather like? What buildings will you build?

#265. What do you think it would be like to work as a sailor on big ship in the ocean each day?

#266. Imagine you are the teacher for the day. What types of activities do you make the students in the class do?

#267. How would you feel if your parents told you that you would be getting a new baby brother or sister? Write about it!

#268. Do you know any good jokes? What are some of your favorite jokes? What makes them funny? Do you think you could write your own?

#269. Imagine you are floating down a river on a raft. What types of things can you see from the river that you normally wouldn’t see from the land?

#270. You want to start a new hobby collecting something. What kinds of things would you collect and why?

#271. Your mom announces she is having a yard sale. Would you let her sell any of your things? Why or why not?

#272. Imagine you walk out your front door one morning and it is raining popcorn! What do you do?

#273.  You are camping in the woods one night and hear a scary noise. What do you do? What might be the cause?

#274. What do you think might make kids really happy to go to school? What are some things you think schools should do so that it could be more fun?

#275. Today’s lunch at the cafeteria was unusually horrible. You are a detective on the case to investigate. What do you think is the cause?

#276. If you had a tree that grows money, what would you do?

#277. What would you do if you had a unicorn as a pet?

#278. Would you rather go to the zoo or go to the aviary? Which one would you pick and why?

#279. What are some safety tips you should follow when riding a bike?

#280. You are designing the cover of a magazine. What are some of the headlines on the cover?

#281. Are you afraid of the dark? Why or why not?

#282. If you could learn to play any type of musical instrument, which one would you like to learn how to play and why?

#283. Imagine you are playing a sport that involves a ball, such as soccer, baseball or kickball. What would it be like if the ball could talk?

#284. You come home to discover a friendly alien has been living in your closet. What do you do? Why is there an alien in your closet?

#285. Is there something you are afraid of that you wish you weren’t afraid of? Write about it.

#286. Write about the best party you’ve ever been to. What made the day fun and special?

#287. What makes you feel loved and cared about? What are some ways people can show you that they love and care about you?

#288. There is a kite flying competition coming up and you are going to design your own kite. What will your kite look like? What colors will it be? Will it have any certain shape?

#289. You are given the challenge to drop an egg on the floor – without it breaking! What are some things you might try to make sure the egg won’t break?

#290. What are some of the things you can do every day to stay healthy?

#291. Do you think grown-ups are boring? Why do you think they are so boring all of the time? What is something fun that boring grown-ups could do instead of being so boring?

#292. Write a lyrical poem or song about what kids do while they are at school all day long.

#293. What are the first things you like to do when you are done with school each day? What are some of the activities you like when you are not at school?

#294. Imagine dinosaurs were still alive today. How do you think our lives would be different?

#295. Would you rather visit a volcano or a desert? Which one would you choose and why?

#296. Is there a sound you think is annoying? What types of sounds drive you crazy? Write about them!

#297. What do you think it would be like to be the size of an ant for a day? What types of things would you do?

#298. Imagine one of your stuffed animals comes to life and starts talking to you. What types of things will you talk about? What will you do?

#299. What makes you feel happiest? Write about the things in life that make you feel happy!

#300. Imagine there is no gravity. What kind of things would you do you for fun? How would some of the things you already do for fun be different?

Buy the Printable Cards!  We will always have this list of 300 kids writing prompts available for free, but I’m very excited to now also offer an  ad-free printable version of these prompts  in my online Etsy shop. Thank you for your support!

Parents and teachers, I hope you enjoyed these 300 writing prompts for kids and that you will use them to inspire your children’s creative imaginations.

These prompts of course can be used in a number of different ways and can be adapted for a variety of different styles of writing !

What do you think? Do you think these are good conversation and story starters for kids? Do you have any ideas for writing prompts you would like to share?

And of course, if you’d like to make it super fun and easy to use these prompts at home or in your classroom, be sure to get our ad-free printable version of these kids writing prompt cards now available in my Etsy shop.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on different creative writing ideas and topics for kids to write about! Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Chelle Stein wrote her first embarrassingly bad novel at the age of 14 and hasn't stopped writing since. As the founder of ThinkWritten, she enjoys encouraging writers and creatives of all types.

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48 comments.

These are awesome! I feel like answering the questions myself! Thanks a million!

Thanks! Glad you enjoyed them! 🙂

Lovely and amazing help

I wrote all 300! but my fingers hurt badly now. :l But i got to admit these are exellent questions!

Hi. Thanks for this list. So many great ideas. I will definitely use some of them for my Language Arts class.

hi people THIS WAS SO LONG but so worth it for my class thx mate

This was great for homework

Thank you for the topics. It was really helpful

Your writing prompts are awesome

These are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing. I will definitely be using it with my kids.

Thank you! I hope they enjoy the writing prompts!

I love these, they are awesome and very helpful too. Thank you very much.

these questions hooked me on easily thanks your the best!

They are all good prompts

This is always good and improves the brain.

These are very useful and very enjoyable topics, i enjoy by giving these to my students , their creations are marvelous

It’s was very long but worth it

This is good. I love it. It helps me in my studies. I share it with my friends children that likes the writing. We love it. Please, think of another writing.

Thanks! Worth printing and providing for my middle school students as a first week of the year activity. Must have taken you ages to come up with all 300 of these!

I’m glad to hear you can use them for your students! It did take some time, but it’s well worth it knowing it might inspire kids to write! 🙂

You need a printable version of this!!

Hi Katelyn, we have one! https://gumroad.com/UBnsO Hope you enjoy!

The link doesn’t seem to be working for me… Could you send me a copy of the list, please?

Hi Tori, the printable version of this post is available as an ad-free paid upgrade – you can purchase it through my Gumroad store: https://gum.co/UBnsO

I quite liked your ideas, I’ll try a few, surely!

How long did it take for you guys to make 300 ideas?

Definitely took some time Vilenti, but it was definitely worth writing all of them! Our prompts reach over a million people a year and are used in literacy, poverty, and mental health programs worldwide. 🙂

These were awesome, thanks a TON

i have school work and this is one thing i do.

i do this for school work to

i do this for school work

Hello Chelle, thanks a lot for this. During these tough Covid times, I find your list to be a great idea to engage kids. Have got them started on some today. Hopefully this will be a long term engagement for them.

The prompts are grrrreat

This was really helpful i have looked for a lot of these, that have a lot of topics and only found one other good one and finished it all, i got to 17 and was like are they all this good! And they all are so thanks!

Glad you enjoyed them!

These are awesome

These are amazing! Thank you so much for sharing.

I loved looking at these prompts!! They were very helpful. I am loving writing and supporting my claims with these prompts. You should post more ideas!! Thanks for sharing the prompts.

Do you have any more?

This really was think written

I’d like to use a few of your questions in a journal for adults that I am creating for sale. I will absolutely credit you at the beginning of the book. Is that okay with you or not? I don’t want to infringe on any copyright laws. I think I used about ten of them.

Hi Kristen, you cannot use these prompts for products for sale, that would definitely be an infringement on copyright. These prompts can only be used for non-commercial use.

this is the greatest app ever

I like all the questions

thank you for all the ideas they are so good

OMG These are all very good and many questions i like all these Thankyou soooooooooooo much for these

I’m in class doing this and it is so fun yes every body is doing this

I LOVE these! My daughter and I stumbled across a post full of fun writing prompts on another website but they were more geared for adults. This list is HUGE and perfect for us to tackle together. Thank you! ❤️

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100 Writing Prompts for Kids: Ideas and Story Starters to Get Pens Moving Faster Than Ever

Stuck for writing prompts that will inspire your students to fill their pages?

We’ve got you covered. Here are 100 writing prompts that will get heads down and pens moving faster than ever.

• Write about a special bond you have with an animal.
• Describe your dream bedroom. What would be in it and why?
• You’re trapped on a desert island with only the things in your schoolbag. What do you do?
• Your pet is in charge of you for a day. What will they make you do?
• Write about a place that is important to you.
• When I discovered there was treasure buried in the backyard I…
• A friend from another country is going to swap schools with you. Write a letter telling them what to expect.
• The moment I woke up, I knew something wasn’t right…
• Write a letter to your teacher telling them why your favourite/favorite book should be studied in class.
• You get to be your favourite/favorite animal for a day. What do you do?
• Write a story where all your favourite/favorite characters from books and movies meet up. What do they get up to?
• Write an alternative ending for your favourite/favorite book or movie.
• Describe a day in your life if you were famous.
• Write a story where the main character faces their biggest fear.
• I looked out the window and couldn’t believe what I saw…
• You’ve got a magic pen. What can it do and how will you use it?
• Write a story that includes the sentence, “I should have seen this coming.”
• You discover a trapdoor in your house. What lies beneath?
• Describe a mistake you made and what you learned from it.
• Write a speech that tells the whole school why you should be a student leader.
• Write a letter to a younger sibling telling them everything they need to know about being in Grade 4.
• You can choose one new subject or sport to be taught at school. What do you choose and why?
• Homework should be banned. Explain why you agree or disagree with this statement.
• If you could travel through time, would you go to the past or the future? Explain why.
• Write about a famous person and why you admire them.
• Write about the best gift you’ve ever received. What made it so amazing?
• The dinosaurs are back, and they’re in your street. What happens next?
• If I could visit another planet I would go to…
• You dig the world’s deepest hole. What lies at the bottom?
• You’re the teacher for the day. What will you do in your lesson?
• If I could keep any animal as a pet I would choose… because…
• Your house has a secret and mysterious history. Write a story about what happened before you lived there.
• If I had a superpower it would be…
• The most interesting thing I’ve learned this year is…
• You get to change the school uniform. What would you make everyone wear and why?
• You get transported into the last video game you played. Where are you?
• If you could invent anything, what would it be?
• If I could only eat one food from now on it would be… because…
• You’re a detective working on a big, important case. What is it and how do you solve it?
• If I could have any job in the world it would be…
• Write a story where the main character is hiding a big secret.
• An alien arrives at your house. What happens next?
• You climb to the top of the tallest tree in your neighbourhood/neighborhood. What can you see that you couldn’t see from down below?
• Write a story where a boring, everyday experience gets turned into a big adventure.
• Describe what you look for in a friend.
• Who lives in the clouds and what do they do up there?
• What is your favourite/favorite holiday and why?
• It started out as just an ordinary day, but then…
• Write about a family member who has an interesting story to tell.
• You’re organizing the ultimate birthday for a friend. What have you planned for them?
• You can breathe underwater and swim like a fish. What will you do with your new power?
• Write a story about a lost city.
• What has someone taught you that you will never forget?
• You get sucked into the pages of your favourite/favorite book. What happens when you join the story?
• This year my goal is to…
• Write a thank you letter to a person who has helped you in some way.
• What is your favourite/favorite season and why?
• You work at the zoo and the elephants have broken loose! What will you do?
• “You’ve got the wrong person – it wasn’t me!” Continue this story…
• Write about a time when you felt a strong emotion (e.g. happy, sad, angry, scared). What made you feel this way?
• Write a story where a character discovers something surprising.
• If I could change one thing in the world it would be…
• Describe the oldest person you know.
• Imagine your life on a farm. What would be on it and what would you do?
• Write a story about a journey at sea.
• What is your favourite/favorite room in your house and why?
• You have $1000 to spend. What will you buy?
• You’ve grown wings and now you can fly. Where will you go?
• What is a food you find really disgusting? Explain why it’s so bad.
• Write about a journey to the top of a huge mountain.
• You’re the mayor of a new town, and now you want people to move there. How will you convince them to join you?
• Would you rather live in a cold, snowy place, or a hot and sunny place? Why?
• What would be in your dream playground?
• You’re starting a band. What instruments will you need and what sort of music will you play?
• Write about the best ride you’ve ever been on.
• One thing I am really good at is…
• What is your earliest memory? Describe it in as much detail as you can remember.
• Write about the most fun holiday you’ve been on.
• You’re a wildlife photographer trying to get a photo of a rare animal. What animal is it and how will you find it?
• Write a story where one character must keep an important secret. Will it be discovered?
• “Don’t look down,” I told myself. But then I…
• Write a story where two people meet in an unusual way and become fast friends.
• Write a “quarantine story” set in a single house.
• Write a recommendation of a book or movie for a friend. Why do you think they would enjoy it?
• A mystery chest washes up on the shore after a storm. Write a story about what happens when it’s discovered.
• Turn one of your strangest dreams into a story.
• Write a “how to play” guide for your favourite/favorite sport.
• Write about the most delicious OR the most disgusting meal you can think of. Make sure your reader can imagine what it tastes like!
• Every year a new person is sent to the moon, and now it’s your turn. What happens when you step out of the rocket?
• If you had a superpower, what would it be and why?
• Write a story where a holiday goes horribly wrong.
• I was terrified. Butterflies filled my stomach. But I took a deep breath and finally stepped out onto the stage…
• You’re handed a letter with your name on it. When you open it up you can’t believe your eyes…
• Write a story where someone discovers something surprising about their neighbor.
• You get to create a new holiday that will be celebrated every year. What is it called and what will people do to celebrate on this day?
• Write a story that takes place in a forest.
• There’s an old house at the end of the street hidden behind tall, dark trees. No one has been brave enough to enter, until now…
• Write a story about a snow day.
• You’re the host of a new game show. Write about what happens in the first episode.
• Write a story where someone discovers something they aren’t supposed to know.

Looking for more writing prompts for your class?

Reading Eggs is brimming with thousands of reading and writing activities. Story Factory in Reading Eggs for example, allows students to create their very own story books with illustrations. Once they have written a story, you can print it out to create a real book that is uniquely theirs.

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WEEKLY WRITING PROMPTS

Join (probably?) the world's largest writing contest. Flex those creative muscles with weekly writing prompts.

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Write a story about a warrior who doesn’t want to kill the dragon..

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Write about a person who's been called to mentor someone in a special skill, but doesn't really want to.

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Include a scene in your story in which a character's body language conveys their hidden emotions., include dialogue that shows that a character is socially awkward., write a scene in which a character’s behavior or reaction to something is affected by a past experience — without saying what that experience was., start your story in a coffee shop without using obvious words to describe it (e.g. barista, coffee cup.), subscribe to our prompts newsletter.

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Write a story about someone making a deal with the devil.

You confront the monster you’ve spent many long years hunting. except they’re not exactly what you thought they’d be…, write a story about a monster trying to become more human. or about a human trying to become more monstrous., set your story in a haunted house., write a story about someone trying to resist their darker impulses. whether they succeed or fail is up to you., it’s the last evening of your vacation and you’re watching the sunset with your friends/partner/family, wishing summer would never end. but just as the sun dips below the horizon, you notice it returning in reverse., each year, your character's family goes on the most exotic vacations. finally they discover why — their family are assassins., now, as an adult, your character looks back on this summer as the summer when they grew up., what was meant to be a great bonding vacation turns sour when an uninvited guest tags along., set your story on the eve of the first day back at school., win $250 in our short story competition 🏆.

We'll send you 5 prompts each week. Respond with your short story and you could win $250!

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Creative Writing Prompts

When the idea to start a weekly newsletter with writing inspiration first came to us, we decided that we wanted to do more than provide people with topics to write about. We wanted to try and help authors form a regular writing habit and also give them a place to proudly display their work. So we started the weekly Creative Writing Prompts newsletter. Since then, Prompts has grown to a community of more than 450,000 authors, complete with its own literary magazine, Prompted .  

Here's how our contest works: every Friday, we send out a newsletter containing five creative writing prompts. Each week, the story ideas center around a different theme. Authors then have one week — until the following Friday — to submit a short story based on one of our prompts. A winner is picked each week to win $250 and is highlighted on our Reedsy Prompts page.

Interested in participating in our short story contest? Sign up here for more information! Or you can check out our full Terms of Use and our FAQ page .

Why we love creative writing prompts

If you've ever sat in front of a computer or notebook and felt the urge to start creating worlds, characters, and storylines — all the while finding yourself unable to do so — then you've met the author's age-old foe: writer's block. There's nothing more frustrating than finding the time but not the words to be creative. Enter our directory! If you're ready to kick writer's block to the curb and finally get started on your short story or novel, these unique story ideas might just be your ticket.

This list of 1800+ creative writing prompts has been created by the Reedsy team to help you develop a rock-solid writing routine. As all aspiring authors know, this is the #1 challenge — and solution! — for reaching your literary goals. Feel free to filter through different genres, which include...

Dramatic — If you want to make people laugh and cry within the same story, this might be your genre.

Funny — Whether satire or slapstick, this is an opportunity to write with your funny bone.

Romance — One of the most popular commercial genres out there. Check out these story ideas out if you love writing about love.

Fantasy — The beauty of this genre is that the possibilities are as endless as your imagination.

Dystopian – Explore the shadowy side of human nature and contemporary technology in dark speculative fiction.

Mystery — From whodunnits to cozy mysteries, it's time to bring out your inner detective.

Thriller and Suspense — There's nothing like a page-turner that elicits a gasp of surprise at the end.

High School — Encourage teens to let their imaginations run free.

Want to submit your own story ideas to help inspire fellow writers? Send them to us here.

After you find the perfect story idea

Finding inspiration is just one piece of the puzzle. Next, you need to refine your craft skills — and then display them to the world. We've worked hard to create resources that help you do just that! Check them out:

• How to Write a Short Story That Gets Published — a free, ten-day course by Laura Mae Isaacman, a full-time editor who runs a book editing company in Brooklyn.
• Best Literary Magazines of 2023 — a directory of 100+ reputable magazines that accept unsolicited submissions.
• Writing Contests in 2023 — the finest contests of 2021 for fiction and non-fiction authors of short stories, poetry, essays, and more.

Beyond creative writing prompts: how to build a writing routine

While writing prompts are a great tactic to spark your creative sessions, a writer generally needs a couple more tools in their toolbelt when it comes to developing a rock-solid writing routine . To that end, here are a few more additional tips for incorporating your craft into your everyday life.

• NNWT. Or, as book coach Kevin Johns calls it , “Non-Negotiable Writing Time.” This time should be scheduled into your routine, whether that’s once a day or once a week. Treat it as a serious commitment, and don’t schedule anything else during your NNWT unless it’s absolutely necessary.
• Set word count goals. And make them realistic! Don’t start out with lofty goals you’re unlikely to achieve. Give some thought to how many words you think you can write a week, and start there. If you find you’re hitting your weekly or daily goals easily, keep upping the stakes as your craft time becomes more ingrained in your routine.
• Talk to friends and family about the project you’re working on. Doing so means that those close to you are likely to check in about the status of your piece — which in turn keeps you more accountable.

Arm yourself against writer’s block. Writer’s block will inevitably come, no matter how much story ideas initially inspire you. So it’s best to be prepared with tips and tricks you can use to keep yourself on track before the block hits. You can find 20 solid tips here — including how to establish a relationship with your inner critic and apps that can help you defeat procrastination or lack of motivation.

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Never Forget: 5 Writing Prompts to Commemorate the 9/11 Events

Demme Learning · September 1, 2022 · 3 Comments

Although students today don’t have their own memories of the 9/11 events, it’s important that they learn about that day and its long-term effects. One of the best ways to remember and recognize the immense impact of September 11, 2001, is to write about it. Here are five writing prompts that you can use to get your students to reflect on this American tragedy.

1. Ripple Effect

You may be too young to remember the 9/11 events, but you’re certainly not immune to their ripple effect. Write about how the September 11th attacks continue to affect all Americans—even those who have no memory of that day.

The September 11th tragedy brought forth many heroes. Write about a hero or a heroic event that you have read about or observed in a documentary. If you need some inspiration, check out some of these hero stories:

7 Incredible Stories of Heroism on 9/11 Police Officer Moira Smith Rick Rescorla Saved 2,687 Lives on September 11

The Firemen of 9/11 ; History Documentary (38:45) The Town of Gander: Unlikely Hero of 9/11 ; Tom Brokaw (5:57) 9/11: The Man in the Red Bandanna ; ESPN (13:40)

3. A Different World

Much has changed in the years since 9/11. The events of that day impacted not only the United States, but the world as a whole. Do you think the world is more or less vulnerable today than in 2001? How have our freedoms been impacted? Write a paragraph explaining your thoughts.

4. Through Their Eyes

Interview a parent, grandparent, or other adult who remembers the tragedy of September 11, 2001. Ask about where they were or what they were doing when they found out about the attacks. How did they react? What are their feelings about 9/11 today? Assemble their responses into an essay or poem.

5. Gratitude Is an Attitude

September 11th is a hard day to think about. As we honor those who lost their lives on this day in 2001, make a list of at least 10 things in your life that you are thankful for and provide a brief explanation why.

The 9/11 events are an emotional topic to cover, and having students complete thoughtful writing can be a great way to learn about them. By exploring a variety of writing formats, students can better understand the importance of this historical day.

Reader Interactions

September 2, 2022 at 11:23 pm

Thank you for this! We must never forget!

September 10, 2022 at 10:29 pm

We will always remember 9/11 as a powerful day to others

September 11, 2023 at 3:27 pm

Remembering all lives lost that day. We will NEVER forget.

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