grade 6 creative writing prompts

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100 creative 6th Grade Writing Prompts

Writing Prompts |

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100 Creative 6 th Grade Writing Prompts

Sixth grade is the right time to introduce students to activities that promote self-expression and improves their overall writing skills. In this post, we have come up with a list of 100 writing prompts — from storytelling and expository to research and creative writing prompts — to help students tap into their creativity and hone their writing skills.

In this post, we have for you:

• Storytelling writing prompts
• Research writing prompts
• Reflective writing prompts
• Narrative writing prompts
• Expository writing prompts
• Procedural writing prompts
• Creative writing prompts

So, let’s put this show on the road.

Storytelling writing prompts for 6 th grade

• When we found that the grandpa’s closet opens up to a deep forest, we decided to…
• As I was walking around the local park, a dog came up to me and said, “You have got to listen to my story.” And then he began speaking…
• The most surprising thing we have found in our school was…
• As I was cleaning the attic in my grandparent’s house, I found the genie’s lamp. I decided to…
• My brother and I were in the first fight ever. It all began when…
• Our dream family vacation to… got canceled my younger brother woke up with…
• As the world’s first 12-year scientist, I need to share my invention…
• My first road trip with my dad didn’t go as per the plan. First…
• When Lucy opened her lunch box, she couldn’t help exclaiming “Ugh” because the food looked as gross as…
• I got the biggest surprise of my life when my dog…
• I had never laid eyes on a dragon until that morning when our school took us to the nearby jungle as part of a trekking tour.
• I woke up one morning only to find I have been turned into a big bug. While I was still coming to terms with this, my mother shouted, “Hurry up or you’ll be late for the school.” So I did what I had to do, which was…

Research writing prompts for 6 th grade

• How much time do students spend on the internet?
• How much screen time students have per day?
• Does social media makes peer pressure worse?
• How long can human beings survive without water?
• How long can human beings survive without food?
• How long can fish survive out of water?
• Research your dream career? Mention all the things you must do to achieve it.
• Research the childhood of your favorite writer?
• When, why, and how was your country founded?
• How long camels can go without drinking water? Can they survive long? If yes, how do they manage that?
• How smoking affects your lungs?
• Which has been the most important discovery in the last 50 years?
• What steps can we take to minimize global warming?
• What are civil rights? Who fought for them?
• How do penguins survive in extreme cold?
• Are polar bears good swimmers? If yes, how are they able to swim efficiently in spite of their weight?
• How much food does an elephant needs in a day?
• How shark uses senses to hunt?

Reflective writing prompts for 6 th grade

• Write about a time when you were not able to keep a promise. What had happened? How did you feel?
• What’s the best thing about being in the 6 th grade?
• What’s the worst thing about being in the 6 th grade?
• What has been your biggest learning in the last six months?
• What are the qualities that a good friend must have?
• Write about three qualities you admire in your dad?
• Which sport you like the best and why?
• List your favorite extracurricular activities. What have you learned from them?
• Track the weather for five days? Which was the most comfortable day?
• How students can reduce their screen time?
• Is reading a more satisfying activity than watching television?
• What are the negative effects of social media?

Narrative writing prompts for 6 th Grade

• Do you think you can go three months without the internet?
• Write a letter to your emotional self?
• Is it important for kids to have responsibilities and chores at home?
• What advice would you give to someone who is being bullied at the school?
• Which animal in your opinion represents your personality the most and why?
• Do you like making new friends? Why or why not?
• If you could change one thing about your school, what would it be?
• Write a poem or essay about your parents?
• Describe your favorite family vacation?
• Think about the best day in your life so far. What made the day so memorable?
• Think about the worst day in your life so far. What made the day so miserable?
• Which is your favorite book? How has it impacted you?
• Which your favorite movie? Why do you like it so much?
• Think about your future self. Write about a day in your life, five years from today.
• Tell a family story from the perspective of your mom.
• Who is the fittest person you know? Would you like to become as fit as this person? Why or why not?
• Write about how it feels to spend a night at home alone?
• What are three great things about your school?
• Describe your life if you lived during the Middle Ages?
• What is the biggest problem the world is facing today? How would you solve it?
• How did computers affect our lives?
• Imagine you were asked to pick a new holiday. Describe what you’ll be celebrating and how.
• Could you live without a cell phone for a year? How would you communicate with your friends?
• How hearing and listening are two different things?
• If you could go back in time, which year would you choose?
• You meet a wise man who knows answers to all questions, but you can ask him only one question. What would you ask?
• Who is the oldest person you know?
• Think about a time you were not able to keep a New Year’s resolution? What had happened? Why did you fail?

Expository prompts for 6 th grade

• Describe your favorite short story in your own words.
• Find an interesting story in the newspaper or a local magazine and write it in your own words.
• Write an essay explaining the similarities and differences between you and your sibling or your best friend.
• In what ways Barrack Obama and Abraham Lincoln are similar? In what ways they are different?
• Is life as a sixth grader today different than it was when your parents were studying in the sixth grade? If yes, how it is different.
• Compare and contrast your two close friends.
• How has been your school year so far? What are the main highlights? 
• What was the cause of the recent argument you had with your mom or dad? How did it go?
• Compare and contrast two of your most favorite books?
• How is empathy different from sympathy? Explain the concept of empathy?
• How important is to have a hobby? Explain the benefits of having a hobby.
• Explain a problem in your school? How would you solve it?
• How has cell phone changed our lives?
• Is there really something as cell phone addiction? If yes, what it is?
• Gaming addiction is on the rise among kids? How do you think we can tackle this problem effectively?

Procedural writing prompts for 6 th Grade

• Your friend wants to learn how to play your favorite board game. Explain the steps to him or her.
• Explain a grandparent how to use Facebook.
• Explain a reader how to play your favorite computer game.
• Write step-by-step instructions to tie shoelaces.
• Explain a reader how to play your favorite card game.
• Write step-by-step instructions to create a post on Instagram.
• Explain how to complete all the levels of a video game.
• Describe how you get home from school.

Creative writing prompts for 6 th Grade

• If you could spend a week in any holiday destination in the world, where would you go?
• If you had the power to communicate with pets, what conversations would you have?
• Write a poem that describes your family.
• If you could meet one media personality, who would you choose and why?
• If you could change one thing about your country, what would you choose and why?
• You wake up one morning to find that you can fly. What adventures will you have?
•  You wake up one morning to find that you have grown taller and your clothes and shoes don’t fit you anymore. What would you do?

We hope these writing prompts will help get your pen or pencil moving. Some of these writing prompts need research, some are intellectually challenging, and some others are fun and creative. If you would like more writing prompts, have a look at this post , which offers tons of additional writing prompts you can use to unleash your writing talent. Good luck!

• Get other writing prompts for kids here :
• 3rd-grade writing prompts
• 4th-grade writing prompts
• 5th-grade writing prompts
• Middle School Writing Prompts

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50 Exclusive 6th Grade Writing Prompts that are Printable for Free

• February 22, 2024

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Table of contents, personal narratives:, creative stories:, opinion pieces:, descriptive essays, expository essays, book reviews, research projects, journal entries:, exclusive 6th grade writing prompts , 6th-grade writing prompts , creative writing topics for grade 6 , 6th grade writing prompts with reading passages , recommendations.

For sixth graders, imagination can be the key to creative expression. It’s a strong weapon. With specialized 6th Grade Writing Prompts, you can have an insight into the distinctive thoughts of these young authors and inspire a wide range of creative and inventive ideas.

As a student, every prompt offers you the chance to use narrative to explore new aspects of yourself, from ones that take them to far galaxies to those that delve deeply into your feelings and experiences.

In this article, we will take you through 50 exclusive 6th grade writing prompts that are printable for free. Carefully read through!

• Exclusive 6th Grade Writing Prompts
• 6th-grade Writing Prompts
• Creative Writing Topics for Grade 6
• 6th Grade Writing Prompts with Reading Passages

What Should a 6th Grader Write about?

A sixth grader’s writing can cover a wide range of subjects, contingent upon their experiences, interests, and the particular assignment or goal of the writing work. Some possibilities for topics a sixth grader could write about are as follows:

Students are encouraged to explore their own experiences and share them with others through the use of personal narratives.

They can relive with vivid detail special occasions, like the time they overcame their fear of heights by scaling a mountain, obstacles they’ve overcome, like learning to ride a bike without training wheels, or memorable times spent with loved ones, like a touching holiday celebration or an adventure that strengthened their bond with siblings.

Students acquire insight into their own lives and ideals by thinking back on these experiences and expressing them in writing, in addition to honing their storytelling abilities.

Students can express their imagination and ingenuity via creative stories. Authors can showcase their storytelling skills by creating inventive stories with captivating characters, compelling narratives, and unique settings.

Students are free to let their imaginations run wild, whether they go on an exhilarating journey through a magical kingdom, solve a mystery in a chilling haunted mansion, or explore the depths of space in a futuristic starship.

They hone their narrative abilities, create gripping stories, and bring their imaginative ideas to life on paper via the process of storytelling.

Students can express their opinions on a variety of subjects that are important to them through opinion pieces. Students can use persuasive writing to communicate their ideas, advocate for their beliefs, and express their perspectives on a variety of topics, from pop cultural phenomena to environmental issues to school laws.

Students gain the ability to effectively express their thoughts, provide evidence to back up their claims, engage in critical thinking, and debate—whether they are advocating for tighter environmental rules, defending their favorite book or movie, or suggesting changes to school procedures.

Descriptive essays require students to use language to conjure up vivid images in the readers’ minds and arouse their senses. They can paint a detailed picture of a location they have been to, such a busy city street, a calm beach at dusk, or a comfortable lodge in the woods.

As an alternative, individuals can use rich descriptions and striking pictures to delve into the sensory nuances of a beloved memory, a favorite dish, or an interesting object. Students who practice descriptive writing are better able to arouse readers’ emotions, appeal to their senses, and produce immersive writing.

Expository essays educate students how to present facts and provide a clear, structured explanation of difficult subjects.

They can delve into a variety of topics, including historical events, cultural customs, how-to manuals, and scientific ideas.

Whether they’re breaking down a cultural ritual, exploring the history of ancient civilizations, or explaining how photosynthesis works, students learn how to effectively research, analyze, and present information. This helps them improve their writing, research, and critical thinking abilities.

Through the skillful use of language and images, poetry provides students with a unique means of expression, enabling them to explore themes such as nature, emotions, friendship, and identity. They can play around with various poetry forms, including limericks, sonnets, haikus, or free verse, and investigate the lyrical and rhythmic aspects of language.

Students learn how to use words to express emotions, generate images, and build meaning in their poetry, whether they’re writing a whimsical limerick, a heartfelt sonnet, or a haiku that captures the majesty of a sunset.

By giving students a platform to express their ideas and opinions about books they’ve read, book reviews support the growth of their analytical and critical thinking abilities.

They can assess the book’s advantages and disadvantages, character and topic analysis, and storyline summary.

Students gain the ability to engage with literature thoughtfully, express their opinions clearly, and participate in literary discussions and debates—whether they are analyzing a classic work of literature, suggesting a favorite novel to their peers, or delving into the themes of a recent bestseller.

Research projects allow students to explore interesting subjects in-depth, gather data, and present their results in an orderly and systematic manner. They can delve into a variety of topics, such as social issues, cultural customs, historical events, and scientific occurrences.

Whether they’re looking into the origins of climate change, studying the past of ancient civilizations, or examining how social media affects society, students gain important research skills from these projects.

These skills include how to collect data from trustworthy sources, assess the validity of the data, and effectively and persuasively present their findings.

Keeping a journal gives students a private place to consider their feelings, ideas, experiences, and observations. Journaling allows them to keep track of their daily activities, examine their feelings and responses to situations, and think back on their development and education.

Regular journaling helps kids develop self-awareness, introspection, and mindfulness. This can be done by having them write down their ideas before going to bed, reflect on their experiences after a difficult day, or capture moments of inspiration and insight.

Read ALSO:  107+ Creative Writing Prompts For Middle School Students

• Write a tale about a time-traveling excursion to a significant historical occasion.
• Describe a world in which all people’s dreams come true.
• Which historical figure, and why, would you want to meet if you could?
• Ten years from now, write a letter to yourself.
• Consider being able to teleport to any location on Earth. Which place would you visit first?
• Describe a superhero’s typical day in the life of a neighborhood resident.
• If you could communicate with animals, how would you respond?
• Write a story about a magical item that, although granting desires, has drawbacks.
• Describe a future society in which all aspects of existence are governed by technology.
• What superpower, if any, would you choose to have, and how would you use it?
• Write a tale about a bunch of pals figuring out a mystery in their community.
• Describe an unruly world. How would that feel?
• What exactly does being a good friend entail? Write about an instance where you showed friendship.
• Which disciplines would you include in your own curriculum, if you could create one?
• Write a letter expressing your admiration for the writing of your favorite author.
• Tell about a moment when you had to make a tough choice and how you came to an answer.
• Consider being able to travel to any fictitious place from a book. To what place would you go?
• Write about a moment when, despite the difficulty, you stood up for what you believed in.
• What would you alter, and why, if you could, in the world?
• Write a tale that takes place in a bleak future when humanity is about to perish.
• Write about a day in the life of your favorite movie or book character.
• For you, what does success mean? Write about a moment when you felt accomplished.
• Consider being able to speak with extraterrestrials on a different world. How would you respond?
• Write a letter expressing your admiration for your role model.
• Describe a society in which mind reading is a common skill.
• What new technology, and how might it help civilization, if you could create it?
• Write about a failure you’ve had and the lessons you took away from it.
• Describe a civilization that is utopian and in balance with the natural world.
• What would you change if you could travel back in time to alter one particular historical event?
• Write a tale about a party of adventurers finding a lost culture.
• Describe a world in which magic exists but is kept out of the public eye.
• What does being brave really mean? Write about a brave moment in your life.
• Which historical period—past or future—would you like to live in, and why?

Read ALSO:  140 Exclusive Writing Prompts For Adults

• A Magical Land : Describe a world where magic is real and part of everyday life.
• Time Travel Adventure : Write a story about traveling back in time to a significant historical event.
• Superhero Origins : Create the origin story of a new superhero, including their powers and motivations.
• Mystery Mansion : Describe a spooky mansion and the mysteries hidden within its walls.
• Animal Kingdom : Imagine a world where animals can talk and interact with humans.
• Dream Vacation : Describe your ideal vacation destination and what you would do there.
• Invent a New Planet : Design a planet with unique geography, inhabitants, and customs.
• Lost in the Wilderness : Write about being lost in the wilderness and the adventures that follow.
• Sports Star : Imagine becoming a professional athlete in your favorite sport. Describe your journey to success.
• School of Magic : Enroll in a school for wizards and witches. Describe your experiences learning spells and potions.
• Alien Encounter : Describe an encounter with an alien species and the impact it has on Earth.
• Underwater Adventure : Dive deep into the ocean and explore an underwater world full of wonders and dangers.
• Robot Revolution : Write about a future where robots have become sentient and demand equal rights.
• Time Capsule : Imagine burying a time capsule with items representing your life. What would you include and why?
• A Day in the Life of a Celebrity : Describe a day in the life of a famous celebrity of your choice.
• The Quest for a Magical Artifact : Write a story about a quest to find a powerful magical artifact and the challenges faced along the way.
• Haunted House : Explore a haunted house and uncover its dark secrets.
• Space Exploration : Describe a journey to explore a distant planet in search of new life forms.
• Future Career : Imagine your future career and what a typical day in that profession would be like.
• Invisible Friend : Write about having an invisible friend and the adventures you have together.

Read ALSO:  50 Exclusive 4th Grade Writing Prompts That Are Printable For Free

• Prompt : Imagine you are one of the characters in the passage below. Write a diary entry describing your thoughts and feelings about the events that unfolded.

Reading Passage : “The bell rang, signaling the end of the school day. As Sarah packed her bag, she couldn’t shake off the feeling of dread. She knew she had to face her bully on the bus ride home.”

• Prompt : After reading the passage below, write a persuasive essay arguing whether or not schools should implement a dress code policy like the one described.

Reading Passage : “As students entered the school gates, they were greeted by the sight of their peers dressed in a rainbow of colors and styles. Some wore jeans and T-shirts, while others donned skirts and blazers. There was no uniform requirement, allowing students to express their individuality through their clothing choices.”

• Prompt : Use the information from the passage to write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper expressing your opinion on the issue discussed.

Reading Passage : “The town council is considering banning plastic bags in an effort to reduce pollution and protect the environment. Many residents are divided on the issue, with some arguing that it would inconvenience shoppers and hurt businesses, while others believe it is a necessary step towards a greener future.”

• Prompt : After reading the passage below, write a narrative describing a day in the life of the protagonist, using details from the passage to inspire your story.

Reading Passage : “Jake woke up to the sound of birds chirping outside his window. As he stretched and yawned, he glanced at the clock and realized he was running late for school. He quickly dressed, grabbed his backpack, and raced out the door, eager to start the day.”

• Prompt : Based on the information provided in the passage, write a summary of the main arguments presented by each side of the debate.

Reading Passage : “The school cafeteria is considering replacing unhealthy snacks with nutritious options. Proponents of the change argue that it will improve student health and academic performance, while opponents worry about increased costs and decreased student satisfaction.”

• Prompt : Use the passage below as inspiration to write a descriptive essay about your favorite outdoor activity.

Reading Passage : “As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape, Sarah and her friends gathered around the campfire. They roasted marshmallows, told stories, and gazed up at the starry sky, feeling at peace in the great outdoors.”

• Prompt : After reading the passage below, write a compare and contrast essay discussing the similarities and differences between the two characters.

Reading Passage : “Emily was outgoing and adventurous, always eager to try new things and meet new people. In contrast, her sister Olivia was shy and reserved, preferring to spend her time lost in books or exploring nature alone.”

• Prompt : Using the information provided in the passage, write a persuasive speech arguing for or against the proposed changes.

Reading Passage : “The city council is considering implementing a curfew for teenagers in an effort to reduce crime and keep young people safe. Supporters believe it will decrease juvenile delinquency, while opponents argue it will unfairly restrict the freedoms of law-abiding teenagers.”

• Prompt : Write a narrative inspired by the passage below, imagining yourself as the protagonist navigating the challenges described.

Reading Passage : “Mark stared at the blank page in front of him, feeling overwhelmed by the enormity of the task ahead. He had a history essay due tomorrow, but he had no idea where to begin. With a sigh, he picked up his pen and started writing, determined to conquer his writer’s block.”

• Prompt : Based on the information provided in the passage, write a response discussing your opinion on the topic and providing evidence to support your viewpoint.

Reading Passage : “The debate over homework continues to divide educators, parents, and students alike. Some argue that it reinforces learning and teaches responsibility, while others believe it causes stress and detracts from family time. What is your stance on the issue?”

Yes, these writing prompts are designed to be age-appropriate and engaging for all 6th graders.

Yes, these writing prompts have been carefully crafted to align with common core standards for 6th grade writing.

It’s recommended to introduce a new prompt regularly, such as once a week, to keep your students inspired and practicing their writing skills consistently.

Engaging with a variety of creative and thought-provoking prompts can definitely help enhance your students’ writing abilities over time.

These varied subjects for sixth-grade writing assignments are sure to stimulate young writers’ creativity and critical thinking. Teachers and parents can easily include these prompts in their lesson plans or home-schooling activities because they are free to print.

Students will be able to convey their own views and perspectives while practicing a variety of writing abilities by responding to these prompts.

These writing prompts can be used as homework assignments, daily warm-ups, or creative writing exercises. They are an invaluable tool for supporting the development of young writers.

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50 Engaging 6th Grade Writing Prompts for Thoughtful Essays

Sixth grade marks a big transition in students’ lives. They’re no longer little kids, but they’re not quite teens either–that’s what middle school is all about. To help your students bridge this transition with ease, it’s important to give them plenty of opportunities to practice their writing skills since they’ll be doing a lot of writing in high school and beyond.

Over and above that, writing can be the perfect way for kids to express themselves and explore the world around them. That will only happen if you give them the space to do so, though, so here are 50 engaging 6th-grade writing prompts to help your students get their creative juices flowing.

Narrative Writing Prompts

Narrative writing revolves around telling a story with a plot that has rising action, a climax, and a resolution. These narrative writing prompts will give your 6th-grade students plenty to think about–and write about.

Story Starters

Students will often struggle with where to start their stories. These story starters will help them get past that initial hurdle by giving them some ideas to get their narratives going.

1. I had the biggest fight with my best friend yesterday. It all started when…

2. My first trip to the beach wasn’t what I expected. I thought it would be…

3. I’ll never forget the time when I was lost in the city. It was…

4. I had the biggest surprise of my life when…

5. My family went on the craziest road trip last summer. We started out by…

As you guide your students through their writing journey, make sure to encourage them to be creative and have fun with it – but still have them include the essential elements of a story, like rising action, a climax, and a resolution, so that their stories are well-rounded and engaging.

Personal Narrative Prompts

Personal narratives are all about giving students the opportunity to tell their own stories in descriptive ways. Here are writing prompts to get them started.

6. What’s the best (or worst) birthday you’ve ever had? Why was it so great (or terrible)?

7. What’s the bravest thing you’ve ever done? What made you do it?

8. Think about your future self–where do you see yourself in 1 year? Write about it.

9. Think about the best day you’ve ever had. What made it so special?

10. Describe a time when the weather was really extreme. Describe it.

Reflective Writing Prompts

Reflective writing is a lot like journaling–it gives students the opportunity to process their thoughts and feelings on a given topic. These reflective writing prompts/journal prompts will encourage thoughtful reflection in your students while giving them some fun.

11. Make a list of your favorite things about yourself.

12. Take a walk in nature and describe what you see. What emotions does it evoke in you?

13. Describe your sports or extracurricular activities. What have you learned from them all?

14. Make a list of all the emotions you experience throughout the day.

15. Make a record of your daily objectives. Consider which one was the most simple to accomplish.

Journal prompts are usually effective because they make you think about a certain topic in a different, more introspective way, and so students should be encouraged to approach these writing prompts with open minds and hearts.

Informational Writing Prompts

Informational writing is an essential skill for middle-schoolers, especially as they head into high school and college, where they’ll be expected to write long-form essays rather than fiction. These informational writing prompts will give your students plenty of practice with this type of writing.

Expository Prompts

Expository writing is a type of nonfiction writing that requires students to investigate an idea, assess evidence, expand on the idea, and present an argument concerning that idea in a clear and concise manner. These prompts will help your students hone their expository writing skills.

16. Compare and contrast two of your friends.

17. Choose a challenge at your school. What’s the ideal solution for it?

18. Discuss a problem in a movie you enjoy. What was the outcome of the situation?

19. What was the cause of a recent argument you had? What was the effect?

20. Find an interesting story/narrative in your local newspaper and tell it in your own words.

Research Prompts

Next, research writing prompts will help students practice their research skills by investigating a given topic and finding credible sources to support their claims. These research writing prompts will allow your students to conduct investigative research and write about what they’ve found in detail.

21. How long can fish survive without water?

22. What animals are on the verge of extinction?

23. What’s the history of your favorite sport, and how did it develop?

24. What are people’s civil rights, and who has fought for them?

25. Explore your dream career. What skills would you need to succeed in it?

This may be a good time to introduce your students they could use to reference their information and give credit where it’s due. Inform them that not all sources are created equal, and brainstorm some tips for evaluating the credibility of a website.

Procedural Prompts

As their name suggests, procedural writing prompts provide students with the opportunity to write clear and concise instructions on a given topic. These prompts will help your sixth graders learn the essentials of procedural writing.

26. Make a user guide for anything you use frequently (e.g., your computer, smartphone, video game console).

27. Write a set of instructions for cleaning your room.

28. Teach a younger reader how to do homework without wasting time.

29. What’s the quickest way for you to go to the library if you’re in your classroom now?

30. Describe the steps involved in tying a shoe.

Argument Writing Prompts

The next type of writing prompt is argument writing. Argumentative writing is a type of nonfiction writing that requires students to investigate a topic, collect evidence, and assess their findings to defend a point of view while also considering the perspectives of others.

These argumentative writing prompts will give your young writers practice with this type of persuasive writing.

Argumentative Essay Prompts

The most common type of essay prompt on standardized tests is the argumentative essay question since it’s intellectually challenging. In these questions, students will be given a prompt and they’ll be asked to take a position on an issue or topic.

They’ll then need to provide satisfactory evidence from their research to support their position. Here are some prompts to get them started.

31. Should school uniforms be required in all schools?

32. Is it ever okay to break the law?

33. Do you think people should be required to vote? Why or why not?

34. Is Monday through Friday the best school schedule?

35. Is it important to learn science?

Persuasive Prompts

Emotional appeals can be a powerful tool in persuasive writing. In these prompts, students will need to use their powers of persuasion and other rhetorical strategies to convince their readers to see their point of view. Here are persuasive prompts to put your students’ powers of persuasion to the test.

36. Make a case for or against year-round schooling.

37. Should there be a limit on the amount of homework students can receive?

38. Persuade your parents to let you choose your own bedtime.

39. What’s the best way to deal with bullies in schools?

40. Who’s the greatest sports athlete of all time?

Poetry Prompts

Poetry prompts are a great way to get your students to write creatively. These prompts will help your students tap into their imaginations and write poems that are both beautiful and moving. Whether in free verse or strict meter, your students will be sure to impress you with their poetic prowess.

41. Write about how you’re feeling right now in a  haiku .

42. Create a poem in memory of a book, TV, or film character who has died.

43. Choose an onomatopoeia and use it five times in a poem.

44. Consider a metaphor for the current school year and create a poem about it.

45. Write a friendship poem in which every line includes a  rhyme for “friend.”

Creative Writing Prompts

Last but not least, creative writing is all about using imagination to create a piece of writing that’s unlike anything else. This creative writing prompts will help your students tap into their imaginations and write some truly unique pieces revolving around self-expression.

46. If I could have any superpower, it would be…

47. Write about a day in the life of your favorite cartoon character.

48. If you could be a historical figure for a day, who would you choose to be?

49. Write a family story from the perspective of your pet.

50. Invent a new holiday and describe how it’s celebrated.

Jump In : Better prepare your 6th graders for this activity by improving their reading comprehension first! Proceed to read my list of fun comprehension exercises here —  11 Fun 6th Grade Reading Comprehension Activities (& Games) .

Dust Off Those Pencils and Get Ready to Write! 

While many students lose motivation as their first middle school year goes on, these 50 6th grade writing prompts will help keep them excited about writing all year long. With tons of different genres and modes of writing to choose from, there’s something here for everyone! So get those pencils sharpened and those minds thinking—it’s time to start writing!

Last Updated on July 24, 2022 by Emily

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Home » Tips for Teachers » The 9 Best Creative and Argumentative Writing Prompts for 6th Grade

The 9 Best Creative and Argumentative Writing Prompts for 6th Grade

Keeping middle schoolers excited about writing is important. Writing is such an essential skill that students will need as they complete their education and move on to finding a real job.Many middle school-age students, however, often begin seeing writing as something that isn’t fun or worthwhile. Other students get discouraged about their abilities as a writer and may stop trying their best.

Finding the best writing prompts for 6th grade is so important in keeping students excited and writing and seeing it as something that is worth their time.A few years ago, I took a job as a 6th grade writing teacher. I almost immediately noticed that many of my students seemed bored with writing, while others seemed to shut down when asked to write.I searched and found some engaging writing prompts that sparked my students’ interest. What a difference it made! Students that claimed writing was ‘useless’ were now engaged and sharing their work with others!

I’d love to help you bring about this change in your students, too! Continue reading, and I’ll share:

• The 6th grade writing standards →
• Advantages of using writing prompts with your lessons →
• My favorite creative writing prompts for 6th grade →
• My favorite argumentative writing prompts for 6th grade →

5 Creative Writing Prompts for 6th Grade

Providing students with opportunities for creative writing is important. Creative writing can help students process their emotions, build their confidence, express their individuality, and increase their imagination.

Below are some of my favorite creative writing prompts for 6th grade.  You can use document cameras in order to follow your student’s writing.

Prompt: When you become disappointed, what do you do to manage your emotions?

Before having students begin writing, brainstorm some possible reactions as a class. These may include crying, breathing deeply, counting to 10, taking a break/removing oneself from the situation. After brainstorming, have students select the strategy (or strategies) that best describe their reactions and write about what they do.

2. Flying Superpower

Prompt: One morning, you wake up and realize that you are suddenly able to fly. What adventures would you like to go on?

This writing prompt will really tap into students’ creativity and imagination. Since flying is something they clearly have never done, they will have to think about all the things that would be possible and choose a few to write about.

3. Letter to Future Self

Prompt: Write a letter to your future self. What would you want yourself to know?

Tell students that they will be writing a letter to themselves to read when they are older. You can either pick an age/milestone (graduating from college, getting their first job, having children, etc.), or allow students to pick. Ask students to think about what they believe would be important to know at that juncture in their life and include it in their letter.

You could also modify this by having students write a letter to their past selves. What would they have wanted to know at the beginning of the school year, before they lost their first tooth, or before they even learned how to walk?

4. No Internet for a Month

Prompt: If there was no internet available for a month, what would you do?

This could be a fun one to do with middle schoolers who are so dependent on technology and the internet. Before students begin writing, get them to brainstorm a list of all the ways their lives are dependent on the internet.

Encourage them to think beyond the ‘obvious’ online game play and video streaming to consider other impacts such as ordering items online or communicating via email with friends and family.

5. Genie in a Bottle

Prompt: You released a genie from her magic bottle, and she said she would give you any talent that you ask for. What talent would you want and why?

This is another great creative writing prompt for sixth graders. They’ll have fun thinking about a talent they would like and what they would like to do with that talent.

4 Argumentative Writing Prompts for 6th Grade

Argumentative writing is another important skill for students to practice and develop. With argumentative writing, students must decide their opinion or position related to an issue and provide reasons that support their position. These reasons should be evidenced based, so research to find the support is often required.

You’ll find some of my favorite argumentative writing prompts to use with 6th grade students below.

Prompt: Which animal makes the best pet? Support your opinion with facts and examples.

I like this writing prompt for introducing students to argumentative writing. The topic of pets is something all students are familiar with, even if they don’t personally own a pet.

You can also use this topic to introduce students to providence factual reasons, versus opinions, to support their answers. For example, if students want to say that a cat is the best pet, a factual reason can’t be that cats are cute. However, they could say something like cats are the best pet because they do not have to be taken outside to go to the bathroom on a cold or rainy day.

2. Teaching Math in School

Prompt: Is it necessary to teach math in school? Why or why not?

I liked using this writing prompt with my 6th graders. Before I had students start, I took an initial poll by having the students raise their hands. Not surprisingly, a fair number of hands went up to vote against teaching math in school.

However, after we discussed the pros and cons of eliminating math instruction and students had to make their final decision before starting on their prompt, a lot of students changed their minds. It was encouraging to see them looking at the stronger reasons for leaving math in the curriculum and letting them outweigh their desire for ‘easier’ school.

3. Screen Time Limits

Prompt: Should parents place limits on how much screen time their children can have? Why or why not?

However, once they start thinking about reasons to limit screen time and examine evidence showing the impact of too much screen time on children, they may change their mind.

4. Conserving Energy

Prompt: What is the most important thing all households should be doing to conserve energy?

This writing prompt can pair nicely with a science unit on energy conservation. Clearly, there are a number of things that families can do to reduce their environmental impact.

However, for this writing prompt, students must decide which one thing is the most important and provide evidence to support their opinion.

Writing Standards for 6th Grade

Sixth graders will continue to build on the knowledge and skills they learned in elementary school. As the first of the middle school years, the writing expectations for sixth grade will be greater than those during the elementary school years.

Sixth grade is a critical year for students in regards to writing and other subject matters. They are transitioning from elementary school to the upper grades and will need the right supports to help them master the grade-level standards.

Below is an overview of the writing standards for 6th grade related to the writing process, writing purposes, writing evaluation, conventions, and research and inquiry.

Writing Process

Students should receive instruction and practice on each stage of the writing process. They should independently implement each of the stages when producing their own written work.

The stages of the writing process that sixth graders are expected to know and use include:

Writing Purposes

Sixth graders should be composing texts for a variety of purposes and intents. Many of these texts should be at least 500 to 700 words long.

Some of the different forms/intents that students should be writing about in sixth grade include:

• Research Reports
• Responses to Literature

Writing Evaluation

In sixth grade, students should practice evaluating and giving constructive feedback for another student’s wiring.

They should also begin evaluating their own work and identify their strengths and weaknesses as a writer. Then, they should use this information to set persona writing goals for improving their work.

Conventions

Below are some of the key convention skills that sixth graders should be proficient with:

• Sentence structure
• Capitalization
• Punctuation
• Cursive or manuscript

Research and Inquiry

Research and inquiry is another important standard for sixth graders to show proficiency with. By the end of the year, students should be able to:

• Compile information from multiple sources to complete a report
• Use graphic organizer to show prior knowledge about a subject
• Create a plan for research and take notes about a topic
• Create appropriate questions to research
• Choose appropriate and authoritative sources
• Locate relevant information from resources
• Summarize the information found from various sources
• Document and cite sources
• Understand and articulate the importance of avoiding plagiarism

Advantages of Writing Prompts at the Lessons

You may be wondering why you should use writing prompts with your sixth graders. There actually are a number of benefits associated with using writing prompts, some of which may surprise you.

A few of the benefits of using writing prompts during your writing instruction include:

• The ability to focus student writing on a specific form of writing (informative, narrative, expository, etc.).
• Giving students the opportunity to practice writing and strengthen their skills as a writer.
• Presenting students with engaging tasks and assignments.
• Helping us as teachers come up with new ideas to get our students interested and engaged.
• You can find many writing prompts online for free, which is always a benefit when you are a teacher.

Got to sub in 6th grade today, the predictions were coming fast and furious for today’s writing prompt. Got to love engaged students! pic.twitter.com/nBfzMxxP0T — Nick Jurrens (@NickJurrens) February 20, 2021

43 Narrative Writing Prompts for 6th Grade

Narrative writing is a great way to help students take a break from more structured, academic writing, in order to reflect on their own thoughts or on things they’ve learned and experienced over time.

Below, you’ll find a list of narrative writing prompts to encourage your sixth graders to open up and write about things they typically might not.

Using This Guide

When it comes to reflective journaling, students often participate more when they aren’t being graded or judged based on what they write.

Consider keeping these prompts handy for downtime between activities, quiet time, or when it seems like a student needs a little extra nudge.

Here are some ways you can use this list in your classroom:

• Print prompts on strips of paper, and have students pick their assignments randomly.
• Include a copy of these prompts in your start-of-year paperwork for students to keep handy when they need them.
• Consider letting students keep a separate, ungraded journal for more personal prompts and writing activities.

The Writing Prompts

• Write about a time when you struggled with your self-esteem.
• What is your favorite elementary school memory?
• Who is someone you see as a role model? Why do they inspire you?
• What would you do with your free time if you had less access to technology?
• Write about a time when you felt afraid. What happened to make you feel better?
• Have you ever been in a fight with your best friend? Write about your fight and how it was resolved.
• If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Why?
• Write 10 things you have in common with someone from your class with whom you aren’t friends.
• What would you do if you woke up tomorrow with wings?
• What sort of books would make you more interested in the required reading for class? Why?
• Have you ever been a victim of racism? How did it feel?
• Have you ever witnessed someone being bullied? What did you do?
• What is one thing you wish you could change about your community to make it more inclusive?
• Which video game character do you relate to most? Why?
• Which book character do you relate to most? Why?
• Which superhero do you relate to most? Why?
• Write about a time when you felt betrayed. What happened next?
• What is your favorite holiday memory?
• Write about the last time someone surprised you. How did you react?
• Would you rather spend the summer at a camp on a lake or in a condo on the beach? Why?
• Do you have a secret you’ve never told anyone? Write about it here, with as little or as much detail as you’d like.
• What are three careers you would like to have in the future? Why do these things interest you?
• If you could live in the world of any video game, which would you choose? Why?
• Do you think kids and teens spend too much time using technology? Explain your answer.
• Do you think that students should have mandatory homework? Why or why not?
• Write about someone in your family who you look up to.
• Does your family have any holiday traditions? What are they?
• Write the schedule of your typical day.
• Do you have a particular teacher who has affected your life in a positive way? Write a letter to them.
• If your best friend was a color, what color would they be? Explain.
• If you woke up tomorrow and learned that you could talk to your pet, what would you talk to them about?
• What is something that you’re afraid of? What do you think you could do to overcome this fear?
• Which do you prefer: online learning or school in the classroom? Explain your answer.
• What is your favorite restaurant? What do you like to order there?
• Who is someone you can always depend on? Write about what makes them dependable.
• What does it mean to be an ally?
• What do you think it means to be a feminist?
• When you are sick, what are some things that make you feel better?
• Write about a time when you were excited about something. 
• What is your favorite type of weather? Why?
• Which holiday is your favorite? Why?
• Make a list of ten ways you can help the environment.
• Compare and contrast yourself with a friend or sibling.

Looking For More?

Our site is home to a ton of great teacher, parent, and guardian resources that can be used in the classroom or at home. If you’re looking for something specific and can’t find it here, let us know. We’d love to help you out.

• Unlock Creativity with Writing Prompts for Grade 6 Students

Unlock Creativity with Writing Prompts for Grade 6 Students Writing prompts for grade 6 students are valuable tools for educators and parents to help students explore their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through creative writing exercises. These prompts cover a variety of topics, including personal experiences, thought-provoking scenarios, and ethical dilemmas. They encourage critical thinking, effective expression, and the development of writing skills.

At the 6th-grade level, it is important to provide a supportive and engaging environment for students to practice and improve their writing abilities. Writing prompts specifically designed for 6th graders can inspire them to ponder real-world issues, reflect on personal experiences, and imagine creative solutions to hypothetical situations.

The importance of writing prompts lies in their ability to serve as a starting point for students to express their thoughts and ideas, helping them overcome writer’s block. They also expose students to different genres and styles of writing, expand their writing horizons, and enhance their analytic and problem-solving abilities. Writing prompts encourage creativity, self-discovery, and the development of crucial communication skills.

• Key Takeaways:
• Writing prompts for grade 6 students help them explore their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through creative writing exercises.
• These prompts cover a variety of topics and encourage critical thinking, effective expression, and the development of writing skills.
• Writing prompts provide a starting point for students to express themselves, overcome writer’s block, and enhance their communication skills.
• They expose students to different genres and styles of writing, expanding their horizons and improving analytic and problem-solving abilities.
• Using writing prompts aligns with the 6th-grade writing curriculum and supports the transition to middle school.

The Benefits of Writing Prompts for Grade 6 Students At the 6th-grade level, it is important to provide a supportive and engaging environment for students to practice and improve their writing abilities. Writing prompts specifically designed for 6th graders can inspire them to ponder real-world issues, reflect on personal experiences, and imagine creative solutions to hypothetical situations.

• Examples of Writing Prompts for Grade 6 Students
• Imagine a hidden room in your home: Describe the room and explain why it is hidden.
• Write a story about a day when everyone’s dreams come true.
• If you could communicate with animals, what would you say to them and why?

The transition from elementary to middle school brings new challenges and expectations for 6th-grade students’ writing skills. The curriculum emphasizes narrative writing, essay writing, personal narratives, reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and problem-solving. Various types of prompts, such as narrative prompts, short story ideas, personal narratives, descriptive prompts, persuasive prompts, and expository prompts, help students practice different writing styles and develop their writing abilities.

• The Writing Prompts and the 6th Grade Writing Curriculum

Exploring Different Types of Writing Prompts for Grade 6 Students

• Creative Writing Prompts

Examples of creative writing prompts for grade 6 students include imagining a hidden room in their home, a day when everyone’s dreams come true, and communication with animals. These prompts encourage students to think outside the box and explore their imagination. Through these exercises, students can develop their storytelling skills and express their ideas in unique and engaging ways.

• Imagine stumbling upon a mysterious portal in your school courtyard. What adventures await on the other side? Describe the new world you discover, its peculiar inhabitants, and the challenges you face.
• You find a magical pocket watch that allows you to travel through time. Would you explore the wonders of the past or venture into the unknown future? Share your experiences and the lessons you learn.
• Your pet gains the ability to speak overnight. What conversations would you have? Delve into the humorous dialogues, heart-to-heart talks, and unexpected adventures with your newfound talking companion.
• One day, your class takes a field trip to a mystical forest where every plant has a magical property. Describe the enchanted flora, the challenges faced, and the ultimate goal of your quest.
• If you woke up with superpowers tomorrow, what would they be? Craft your superhero origin story, detailing your newfound abilities, the challenges faced, and the responsibilities that come with being a hero.
• You have the opportunity to invent one groundbreaking device. What is it, and how does it revolutionize the world? Dive into the details of your invention, its purpose, and the impact it has on society.
• Your class is creating a time capsule to be opened in 50 years. What items would you contribute, and what messages would you leave for the future generation? Share your thoughts on the legacy you wish to impart.
• You receive a letter from an extraterrestrial pen pal. Describe your correspondence, the cultural exchange, and the intergalactic adventures that unfold through your written exchanges.
• While exploring a cave, you discover a hidden underground world. Describe the fantastical creatures, landscapes, and challenges you encounter on your subterranean adventure.
• You receive a paintbrush with the power to bring your drawings to life. Illustrate the magical scenarios you create, the characters that come alive, and the enchanting tales that unfold.
• Narrative Writing Prompts

Narrative writing prompts for 6th grade students provide opportunities for them to create their own stories, develop characters, and plot thrilling adventures. These prompts can challenge students to write about their own personal experiences or engage in fictional storytelling. They help students develop their narrative skills, build a strong foundation in storytelling, and improve their ability to captivate readers.

• You stumble upon an ancient map hidden in the attic. As you decipher its cryptic symbols, it leads you on a thrilling adventure. Describe your journey, the challenges faced, and the ultimate discovery awaiting you at the journey’s end.
• One morning, you wake up in a different time period. Chronicle your experiences as you navigate the customs, technologies, and societal norms of this unfamiliar era. Reflect on the lessons learned during your time-travel escapade.
• While exploring your school’s archives, you discover a forgotten artifact with mysterious powers. Detail the artifact’s origin, the secrets it holds, and the impact it has on your life and those around you.
• Imagine a day in the life of a superhero with unique powers. Describe your superhero persona, the challenges faced, and the moral dilemmas encountered while balancing a double life.
• During a camping trip, you stumble upon a forest imbued with magic. Share your encounters with mythical creatures, enchanted landscapes, and the transformative experiences that occur within this mystical realm.
• Write about an unexpected friendship that blossoms between you and someone seemingly different. Explore the challenges faced, the shared adventures, and the lessons learned about acceptance and understanding.
• You invent a revolutionary device with unintended consequences. Delve into the ethical dilemmas, societal impacts, and personal reflections as you grapple with the aftermath of your groundbreaking creation.
• Your class creates a time capsule to be opened in the future. Detail the items you contribute, the significance behind each choice, and the messages you convey to future generations.
• You participate in an intergalactic exchange program, living on an alien planet. Chronicle your experiences, the extraterrestrial customs you encounter, and the friendships forged across the cosmos.
• You discover a book that brings its stories to life. Dive into the fantastical worlds, characters, and adventures that unfold as you read this enchanted tome.
• Persuasive Writing Prompts

Persuasive writing prompts for grade 6 students introduce them to the art of persuasion and argumentation. These prompts encourage students to express their opinions, support them with evidence, and convince others to see their point of view. Persuasive writing prompts cover a range of topics, from current events to social issues, allowing students to practice critical thinking, research, and persuasive techniques.

• Convince your classmates that incorporating more outdoor education into the curriculum is essential for a well-rounded learning experience. Support your argument with examples of the benefits of outdoor learning.
• Present a persuasive case either for or against abolishing homework. Use evidence and logical reasoning to support your stance, considering the impact on students’ well-being and academic performance.
• Convince your family or classmates to adopt a pet. Provide compelling reasons for the positive impact of having a pet, including companionship, responsibility, and the joy they bring to a household.
• Persuade your school or community to implement or enhance recycling programs. Present the environmental benefits of recycling and the responsibility we have in preserving the planet for future generations.
• Argue either for or against limiting screen time for children. Support your position with evidence regarding the potential effects on physical and mental health, as well as the importance of alternative activities.
• Convince your school to adopt or abandon a uniform policy. Discuss the potential benefits of uniforms in promoting equality and reducing distractions, or argue for the importance of individual expression through clothing.
• Persuade your peers to engage in volunteer activities. Highlight the personal and societal benefits of volunteering, emphasizing how it contributes to character development and community well-being.
• Convince your classmates and school administration to limit or eliminate sugary drinks from school vending machines. Provide evidence of the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption and advocate for healthier beverage options.
• Persuade your classmates about the importance of learning a second language. Discuss the cognitive, cultural, and career advantages of being bilingual or multilingual.
• Argue for the importance of balancing technology use with outdoor playtime, especially for children. Present evidence on the benefits of outdoor activities for physical and mental well-being, urging a healthy equilibrium.
• Descriptive Writing Prompts

Descriptive writing prompts for grade 6 students focus on enhancing their ability to vividly describe people, places, objects, and experiences. These prompts challenge students to use sensory details, figurative language, and descriptive techniques to bring their writing to life. By engaging their senses and imagination, students can improve their descriptive writing skills and create immersive stories that captivate readers.

• Transport your readers to an enchanting winter scene. Describe the glistening snow, the crisp air, and the sounds of nature hushed by the blanket of white. Engage all senses to create a magical winter wonderland.
• Take your audience on a virtual journey through a tropical rainforest. Detail the vibrant flora and fauna, the cacophony of exotic sounds, and the humidity that hangs in the air. Paint a rich, sensory portrait of this lush environment.
• Explore the eerie atmosphere of an abandoned amusement park. Describe the rusted rides, overgrown pathways, and the whispers of a bygone era lingering in the air. Create a sense of mystery and nostalgia.
• Capture the beauty of a sunset over the ocean. Describe the changing colors of the sky, the rhythmic sounds of the waves, and the gentle breeze that carries the salty scent. Convey the tranquility and majesty of this coastal moment.
• Step into a timeless library with ancient books and hidden corners. Detail the scent of aged paper, the creaking wooden floors, and the profound silence broken only by the turning of pages. Immerse readers in the world of knowledge.
• Transport your readers to a bustling night market. Describe the vibrant colors of stalls, the enticing aromas of street food, and the lively chatter of people. Convey the energy and diversity of this nocturnal marketplace.
• Explore the contents of an old attic filled with forgotten treasures. Describe the dusty furniture, the cobweb-covered boxes, and the nostalgic items that hint at tales from the past. Evoke a sense of history and mystery.
• Paint a picture of a tranquil meadow in springtime. Describe the blossoming flowers, the buzzing of bees, and the gentle rustle of a light breeze. Capture the essence of renewal and growth in this idyllic setting.
• Take your readers inside a magical cave adorned with glowing crystals. Describe the colors, the reflections, and the otherworldly feel of the cavern. Create a sense of awe and wonder within the depths of the earth.
• Explore the eerie ambiance of a haunted house atop a hill. Describe the creaking doors, the flickering candlelight, and the mysterious shadows that dance on the walls. Convey the spine-tingling atmosphere of this mysterious abode.
• Types of Writing Prompts for Grade 6 Students

Incorporating these different types of writing prompts can help grade 6 students develop their creative, narrative, persuasive, and descriptive writing skills. These prompts provide a framework for students to explore their ideas, refine their writing techniques, and engage in critical thinking. By utilizing a variety of prompts, educators can create an inclusive and stimulating learning environment that nurtures students’ writing abilities.

By offering a diverse range of writing prompts, educators can cater to students’ individual interests and learning styles. This encourages active participation and fosters a love for writing in grade 6 students. Through regular exposure to writing prompts, students can build a strong foundation in communication skills, boost their self-confidence, and develop their unique writing voice. So, why wait? Unlock your creativity with these writing prompts for grade 6 students and start your writing journey today!

Conclusion In conclusion, using writing prompts in grade 6 classrooms can unlock creativity, engage students, and improve their writing skills. Writing prompts for grade 6 students are valuable tools for educators and parents to help students explore their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through creative writing exercises. These prompts cover a variety of topics, including personal experiences, thought-provoking scenarios, and ethical dilemmas. They encourage critical thinking, effective expression, and the development of writing skills.

In the 6th grade, various types of prompts, such as narrative prompts, short story ideas, personal narratives, descriptive prompts, persuasive prompts, and expository prompts, help students practice different writing styles and develop their writing abilities. These prompts align with the 6th-grade writing curriculum, which emphasizes narrative writing, essay writing, personal narratives, reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and problem-solving.

Using writing prompts in grade 6 classrooms can provide students with a solid foundation in writing, enable them to think critically and creatively, and prepare them for the challenges of middle school and beyond. By incorporating writing prompts into their teaching methods, educators can foster a lifelong love for writing and equip students with essential skills for success in academic and professional endeavors.

• Writing prompts for grade 6 students are creative writing exercises that help students explore their thoughts, feelings, and ideas through different topics and scenarios.
• Writing prompts encourage critical thinking, effective expression, and the development of writing skills. They also help students overcome writer’s block, expose them to different genres and styles of writing, and enhance their analytic and problem-solving abilities.
• Grade 6 students can explore various types of writing prompts, including creative writing prompts, narrative prompts, persuasive prompts, and descriptive prompts.
• Writing prompts align with the 6th-grade writing curriculum, which emphasizes narrative writing, essay writing, personal narratives, reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and problem-solving.
• Source Links
• https://www.prodigygame.com/main-en/blog/writing-prompts-for-kids/
• https://brilliantio.com/6th-grade-writing-prompts/
• https://scienceandliteracy.org/writing-prompts-for-6th-grade/

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

Written by Maria Kampen

Prodigy English is here! Get your students playing — and learning — today.

• 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. 

Where will your students’ imaginations take them?

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6th Grade Writing Prompts

If your 6th grader enjoys creative writing, print this free 6th grade writing prompts PDF. With worksheet was created t0 help aspiring writers and language arts teachers. There are 20 writing prompts to get your pen moving. Some of the writing prompts are intellectually challenging, while others are fun and will inspire your imagination.

Click the image thumbnail below to download the PDF version. Alternatively, you can read online by scrolling further down the page.

6th Grade Writing Prompts List

• The year is 1700, and you are in charge of starting a colony in the New World. Name your colony, and describe how you would build it. What challenges would you face, and how would you overcome them?
• You meet a wise man at the top of a mountain, who knows all the answers. He will let you ask him one question. What do you ask?
• Humans have colonized Mars, and now you are on a space ship traveling to the new Martian settlement. Describe your thoughts about traveling to this new planet. Why are you going? What will you see? Who will you meet?
• The year is 1880, and your sailing ship has just crashed on a tropical island in the Pacific. How will you survive?
• You have just found a time machine. What happens next?
• What is the difference between hearing and listening?
• Your space ship has been sucked through a black hole and miraculously you have survived the trip to the other side. Describe what you encounter.
• If you could not longer use a cell phone for an entire year, how would you communicate with people?
• You’re a detective in the 1930s. Write a story about your first case.
• How did computers affect the world?
• Invent a new holiday. Describe what you’re celebrating and some traditions that go along with the holiday.
• Name one problem that currently exists in the world. How would you solve it?
• What is your definition of creativity? How are you creative?
• Write an autobiographical haiku.
• Write a plot summary of a story that contains three fictional characters from three separate books by three different authors.
• Write myth explaining how the world was created.
• Write a story about a superhero with a ridiculous superpower.
• You’re spending the day with the wizard Merlin. Write down some of the wise lessons he teaches you.
• The campfire grew out of control…
• Describe your life if you lived during the Middle Ages.

35 Thought-Provoking Persuasive Writing Prompts For 6th Graders

Looking for a solid persuasive essay topic for your 6th grader?

The below post contains tons of great ideas that will get your 6th-grade students thinking, researching, debating, and writing!

I’m not talking about simple opinion writing topics – like their favorite food, favorite book, or how much money they should get for an allowance.

That is the the thing that my 3rd grade student would delight in arguing. 

No, sixth graders are ready for more meaty topics that require a bit of research and thought. The more they dig into the topic and refine their point of view, the more they will sharpen their critical thinking and writing skills!

Don’t miss the free pdf printable at the bottom of this page with all of the ideas in one place!

Persuasive Writing Prompts For The 6th Grade Student

1. Is a dress code ever necessary?

In this prompt, students will be asked to take a stance on whether or not they think there is ever a time to enforce a dress code. Are there times when someone should be told how to dress? Such as a school dress code or wedding? Or should people be allowed to dress in any way that expresses themselves or their personality? 

2. Should recycling be mandatory instead of suggested?

Students will be asked to consider whether the government should be more aggressive about recycling. They will  be working with the concepts of the benefits of recycling vs. the freedoms of people.

3. Should  vending machines ban junk food?

6th grade students will be asked to argue for or against the ban of junk food in vending machines. Vending machines are often used by people who are hungry and in a hurry. The vending options are usually less than healthy. Should vending machine owners be required to provide better choices? Or should they be allowed to stock their machines as they see fit?

4. Is it okay to keep exotic animals as pets?

This persuasive topic will have students take a stance on whether or not it is a good idea to keep exotic animals as pets. They will need to consider the benefits and drawbacks of keeping exotic pets and present a strong argument for their position. Make sure the student has a good understanding of the topic and the different types and sizes of animals that some people keep as pets.

5. Should the federal government impose a tax on sugary drinks?

In this prompt, students will be asked to argue for or against a government tax on sugary drinks – similar to the tax on cigarettes. They will need to consider the potential benefits of such a tax. What would the tax money be spent on? Or should people be free to drink any kind of beverage they wish, no matter how healthy or unhealthy? 

6. Should life skills be a greater focus for education?

In this prompt, students will be asked to take a stance on what should be taught in school. Should the schools be doubling down on the basics of reading, writing, and math since test scores have dipped? Or should schools start allotting more time for important life skills, like time management, personal finance, and cooking, which are things many young adults struggle with.

7. Should there be age limits to use social media? 

Students will list specific reasons why there should or should not be age restrictions for facebook pages and other forms of social media.

8. Is it important to save endangered species?

Students will be asked argue why enndangered animals should or should not be protected. They may be quick to make up their mind, but make sure they do research and find factual reasons that support their opinions.

9. Should video games be considered a sport?

Even though video games do not require the physical activity of traditional sports, does it still require focus, skill, and grit that would make it a modern sport? Or should that title only be awarded to an activity that requires you to sweat?

10. Should there be a ban on plastic bags?

Everyone knows plastic bags are bad for the environment, but should they be banned? What would the alternative be? 

11. Is it necessary to have physical books anymore?

In the age of digital everything, are paper books still necessary? College students are already buying digital books instead of expensive physical ones. What benefits would come from doing away with paper books? What drawbacks would there be for those without a computer or solid internet?

12. Is it important to teach physical education in schools?

What is the goal of physical education? Does it have a place in the academic environment of education? Should those things be taught at home or on a sports team instead of during school hours? Shouldn’t physical activity be optional? Or is PE a vital piece of knowledge for a well-rounded education?

13. Should zoos be banned?

Do zoos raise money and awareness for animal conservation…or do they imprison animals for a lifetime that should be free and in the wild?

14. Should recess be scheduled for all kids in school? Even high school students?

What are the benefits of taking an outside break with fresh air for students? Are other subjects too important to sacrifice the time? Could older students be more productive with some sunshine and fresh air during the day?

15. If a student has good grades all school year, should they still have to take standardized tests?

If a student has shown that they are learning and progressing academically, should they have to take a long standardized test? Are there other reasons to take these tests? 

16. Is hunting cruel to animals?

Most people buy their meat at grocery stores these days, so is there really any reason to still hunt animals? Does harvesting animals keep humans safe? Or does it make sport of animal lives?

17. Should gas powered cars be outlawed?

Fossil fuels are wreaking havoc on the planet, so should gasoline powered vehicles become illegal? Are electric cars a better option? Do electric cars have any drawbacks? 

18. Is a rewards program or discipline more effective to motivate students?

What incentivizes kids to dive into their work, when maybe they don’t want to? Is it a really strong rewards program that will motivate them to finish a difficult task? Or fear of a consequence if they don’t complete their work?

19. Should the United States require military service for men and women, like other countries do?

Many countries require their population to do some form of federal service. America has a draft registration for men, but not for women. Should both genders be required to serve our country? Would it strengthen our nation and our people to have a common experience with service? Or is it unfair to require people to pause their lives for 2 years during the prime of their youth?

20. Should healthcare be free for everybody?

Is it a human right to get healthcare for free? If the patient doesn’t pay, then who should pay for the treatment? What benefits and/or consequences could come from reshaping our healthcare system?

21. Should candy purchases be limited based on how many cavities you have?

Dental health is very serious. Should a kid’s candy be rationed based on their dental records? The more cavities, the less candy you can have – and vice versa?

22. Is it appropriate to let kids work at younger ages, like 10 or 12, if they can do the job?

Many kids today have a strong desire to work, make money, and be successful. We have child labor laws in place to protect kids, but could that be holding them back? If they can do a job, should they be allowed to be hired? Or would that be robbing a kid of their right to a carefree childhood?

23. Should foreign language be required in school or should it be one of the elective courses?

English is spoken nearly worldwide, as it is taught in many countries around the world. What benefits come from learning another language? Should students be able to choose another elective if they don’t want to learn a new language? Or should American children try harder to be multilingual?

24. Should students be allowed to use their cell phones during tests?

You cannot get away from cell phones these days. Even small children have them! They will be a readily available resource in most work places, so shouldn’t they be allowed during tests? Or are memorization and internalization of information important skills for students to learn?

25. Should plastic water bottles be banned?

Plastic water bottles are a huge problem in our environment. Should we outlaw them to help the Earth? What kind of things are one-use water bottles used for that might be important? 

26. Is it more important to continue exploration of space or the ocean?

Many wonderful advancements and knowledge have come from space exploration, but we know precious little about our ocean which covers 2/3 of the planet. Should governments be investing money into finding what lies beneath the surface instead of what’s above our heads?

27. Should reading an analog clock still be taught in school?

Digital clocks are everywhere – on your phone, stove, microwave, computer, cable box. Do you really need to learn how an analog clock works anymore? Are there times that digital clocks may not be available? Or are they becoming as archaic as a sundial?

28. Is learning  proper handwriting or fast typing more important in today’s world?

Many have stopped learning cursive handwriting, so should schools also stop focusing so much on print handwriting? Should kids be spending that time learning how to type on a keyboard instead? 

29. Should the voting age be lowered so elementary school students can vote?

Kids today are developing opinions and beliefs at younger ages and want to be heard. Should we lower the voting age so that children can make more of a difference? Or are most children not quite ready to handle the responsibility of voting?

30. Should AI be allowed in writing school papers if calculators are allowed in math?

Many teachers are concerned about how to tell the difference between an AI-written essay and one written by a student. Should that be a concern? If math allows calculators, can’t English classes allow help from another form of artificial intelligence? What drawback could come from not expecting kids to write their own essays?

31. Are cell phones good or bad for your health?

Cell phones are common around the world now, but are they good for us? How do they benefit our health? How might they hurt our overall health?

32. Should bees become a protected species?

Many scientists have expressed concern about the dwindling number of bees. Should these important pollinators become a protected species like the bald eagle? Or is it unreasonable to expect a person not to kill a bee that is buzzing around them?

33. Is it ever appropriate to ban a book?

Many heated discussions have come up recently about banning books. Is there ever a time that certain books should be kept from kids – like an R rating on a movie? Or should kids be allowed to read whatever they are interested in? Should offensive content be censored or should it be learned from?

34. Should community service be required for kids, middle schoolers and up?

What good could come of requiring community service from children? Or should people only serve because they genuinely want to help their community?

35. Is reading or math more important in today’s world?

Which is a more crucial skill to master? Should kids be focused on reading at the highest levels? Or should they be focused on learning the language of math at the highest levels?

Click Here To Download A One Page PDF Printable Of All The Argumentative Essay Topics

The above text link will take you to a new window where you can download and print the topics today. No email required! Terms of Use : Homeschool, classroom, co-op, and personal use only.

These essay topics will go along with any persuasive writing unit in your  writing curriculum ! Let your student go through the list and find the one that really gets them excited.

If you’re looking for more fun writing prompts, be sure to check out the picture writing prompts below. There are 40 images with corresponding text that will get your kid excited to write!

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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?

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#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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What If? Inspiring 6th Grade Writing Prompts for Creative Minds

Embracing the Power of "What If"

The key to unlocking your creative potential.

Creative writing is a gateway to unlocking your imagination and nurturing your ability to think outside the box. Research has shown that engaging in creative writing not only enhances language skills but also fosters creativity in young minds. According to a study by Project Zero's Creating Cultures of Thinking, 85.6% of fourth-grade students demonstrated a developing level of creative writing skills after participating in creative writing activities.

Why "What If" Questions Spark Imagination

"What If" questions serve as catalysts for imagination, prompting us to explore uncharted territories within our minds. These open-ended queries encourage divergent thinking and push us beyond conventional boundaries. When children are encouraged to ponder questions like "What if gravity stopped working tomorrow?" or "What if animals could talk?", their creativity flourishes. The significant improvement in creative writing skills observed in students who engage with such prompts highlights the power of these questions in sparking imagination.

My First "What If" Adventure

I vividly remember the first time I delved into a "What If" scenario during a creative writing workshop. The prompt was simple yet intriguing: "What if you woke up one day with the ability to fly?" This question ignited a spark within me, leading to a story where I soared above clouds and explored unseen realms. That initial adventure fueled my passion for storytelling and taught me the boundless nature of creativity.

How to Use "What If" in Your Writing

Incorporating "What If" scenarios into your writing can breathe life into your narratives and captivate your readers. By transforming these imaginative questions into compelling stories, you can transport your audience to fantastical worlds and evoke powerful emotions.

Transforming Questions into Stories

To harness the full potential of "What If" questions, consider weaving them seamlessly into your plotlines. Allow these prompts to guide your characters through unexpected twists and turns, creating an element of surprise for both yourself as the writer and your readers.

Examples of "What If" Prompts to Get You Started

If time travel were possible, where—and when—would you go?

What if you discovered a hidden portal to another dimension in your backyard?

Imagine a world where everyone has superpowers—what would yours be?

By immersing yourself in these thought-provoking scenarios, you'll embark on a journey of endless possibilities and unearth stories waiting to be told.

In the realm of creative writing, embracing the power of "What If" opens doors to infinite creativity and allows you to craft narratives that resonate deeply with both yourself and your audience.

Journey into the Unknown: Crafting Your Adventure

Embarking on a creative journey is akin to setting sail on uncharted waters, where every wave carries the promise of discovery. As we delve into the realm of storytelling, we encounter the essential elements that form the bedrock of a captivating adventure narrative.

The Elements of a Great Adventure Story

Creating your hero.

In crafting an unforgettable adventure tale, the protagonist serves as the beacon guiding readers through perilous challenges and triumphant victories. Heroes come in various forms, from courageous knights to curious explorers, each imbued with unique qualities that resonate with audiences. By infusing your hero with depth and complexity, you breathe life into their journey, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles and celebrate their growth.

Designing the Quest

Central to any adventure narrative is the quest that propels our hero forward towards their ultimate goal. Whether it be a quest for truth, redemption, or treasure, quests add layers of excitement and intrigue to the story. The path our hero treads is fraught with obstacles and temptations, testing their resolve and character along the way. Through skillful storytelling, you can weave a tapestry of challenges that push your hero to their limits and showcase their inner strength.

Adventure Writing Prompts to Explore

A quest for a lost city.

Imagine a world shrouded in mystery where whispers of a lost city echo through ancient ruins. Your hero receives a cryptic map leading to this fabled city, rumored to hold secrets that could change the course of history. As they navigate treacherous jungles and outwit cunning adversaries, they unravel clues that unveil the city's enigmatic past. Will they emerge victorious or succumb to the shadows lurking in forgotten corridors?

The Mystery of the Enchanted Forest

Deep within an enchanted forest lies a realm untouched by time, where magic dances among whispering leaves. Your hero stumbles upon this mystical domain and discovers an ancient prophecy foretelling imminent danger. Armed with courage and curiosity, they must decipher riddles woven into nature's tapestry to prevent calamity from befalling both mortal and magical beings. Can they unlock the forest's secrets before darkness descends?

Crafting your adventure requires weaving together these fundamental elements—the hero's journey intertwined with quests that challenge their mettle—to create a tapestry of wonder and excitement that captivates readers young and old alike.

The Magic of Everyday Life: Finding Wonder in the Mundane

In the realm of creative writing, we often seek inspiration from the extraordinary, yet there is a profound magic hidden within the tapestry of everyday life. 6th graders possess a unique ability to uncover enchantment in the seemingly mundane aspects of their world, transforming ordinary moments into extraordinary adventures.

Seeing the Extraordinary in the Ordinary

The secret life of household objects.

Have you ever paused to consider the untold stories that reside within your household objects? Each item holds a history, a purpose, and perhaps even a touch of magic waiting to be discovered. From the well-worn teddy bear perched on a shelf to the antique clock ticking away time's secrets, every object has a tale to tell. 6th graders can embark on a literary journey by imagining the secret lives of these inanimate companions, breathing life into them through storytelling.

A Day in the Life of Your Pet

Pets are more than just furry friends; they are loyal confidants and silent companions who witness our daily triumphs and tribulations. Imagine stepping into your pet's paws for a day—what adventures would unfold? Through their keen senses and unique perspectives, pets experience the world in ways we can only imagine. 6th graders can explore this narrative avenue by crafting tales from their pet's point of view, delving into whimsical escapades and heartfelt connections.

Everyday Magic Writing Prompts

The adventures of a classroom chair after school.

After hours, when silence envelops the classroom like a comforting shroud, what tales does the solitary chair whisper to itself? Picture a scenario where a humble classroom chair embarks on nocturnal escapades, navigating an empty room filled with forgotten dreams and unfinished stories. Through its eyes—or rather legs— 6th graders can weave an enchanting narrative that blurs the lines between reality and imagination.

If Your Favorite Book Could Talk

Books hold within their pages worlds waiting to be explored and characters yearning to come alive. Envision a scenario where your favorite book gains the gift of speech—what would it say? How would it regale you with its tales or offer wisdom gleaned from countless journeys? Encourage 6th graders to engage with this prompt by penning dialogues between themselves and their cherished literary companions, fostering a deeper appreciation for storytelling's enduring magic.

Through these writing prompts rooted in everyday wonders, young writers can hone their craft while discovering that magic resides not only in distant realms but also within the familiar embrace of their daily lives.

Voices from the Future: Imagining Tomorrow

The role of futuristic thinking in creative writing.

Exploring the realms of tomorrow through futuristic thinking not only ignites our imagination but also shapes the narratives we craft. As young writers delve into the possibilities of future worlds, they are not merely envisioning what could be, but also honing their creative prowess. Scientific research findings have highlighted the profound impact of futuristic thinking on creative writing skills, emphasizing its role in fostering innovative storytelling.

How to Build Your Future World

Constructing a future world within your narrative requires a blend of imagination and logical extrapolation. Consider the technological advancements, societal shifts, and environmental changes that may shape the landscape of tomorrow. By integrating these elements thoughtfully, you can create a vivid and immersive setting that captivates readers and sparks their curiosity about what lies ahead.

The Importance of Hope in Dystopian Stories

In dystopian tales where societies face bleak futures and formidable challenges, hope emerges as a guiding light amidst darkness. While these narratives often depict oppressive regimes or post-apocalyptic landscapes, it is the glimmer of hope that resonates with readers and infuses the story with depth. Encouraging young writers to infuse their dystopian worlds with themes of resilience, courage, and optimism can transform bleak narratives into powerful reflections on human spirit and perseverance.

Futuristic Writing Prompts for Young Minds

A day in the life of a space explorer.

Imagine waking up aboard a spacecraft hurtling through the cosmos, surrounded by stars glittering like diamonds against an endless expanse. As a young space explorer embarking on a mission to uncharted galaxies, every moment presents new wonders and challenges. Describe your daily routine onboard the ship—from zero-gravity workouts to navigating alien landscapes—and share the exhilaration and solitude that come with exploring the vast unknown.

The Invention That Changed the World

Inventors hold the key to shaping our future through groundbreaking creations that revolutionize how we live, work, and interact with our environment. Picture a world where a single invention has transformed society—whether it be teleportation devices, sentient AI companions, or sustainable energy sources. Explore the ripple effects of this innovation on everyday life, economy, and relationships, delving into both its benefits and unforeseen consequences.

By immersing themselves in futuristic scenarios and contemplating the implications of technological advancements or societal shifts, young writers can cultivate their imaginative faculties while honing their storytelling skills. Through these prompts inspired by tomorrow's possibilities, they embark on a journey of exploration and discovery that transcends time and space.

Scientific Research Findings :

Impact of Montessori Education on Creative Thinking and Brain Mechanisms : Montessori-schooled children demonstrated higher scores on creative thinking tests .

Impact of Educational Program on Creative Writing Skills in Fourth-Grade Students : Significant differences were observed in students' development of creative writing skills between experimental and control groups.

Importance of Creative Thinking in Education : Learning through critical thinking fosters creative solutions in real-world contexts within feedback-rich environments.

Incorporating elements from scientific research findings underscores the significance of nurturing creativity through futuristic thinking in educational settings while empowering young minds to envision brighter tomorrows through their written words.

Reflecting on Your Journey

As a writer, the journey of growth and self-discovery through creative writing exercises is a transformative experience that shapes not only your craft but also your perspective on storytelling. Each prompt, each word written, and each revision undertaken contributes to your evolution as a writer, guiding you towards honing your unique voice and narrative style .

The Growth of a Writer

From the inception of your writing journey with the first prompt to the refinement of a polished piece, every step along the way marks a milestone in your growth as a writer. Kathleen Flanagan , reflecting on her experience with Emma Heatherington's writing course, emphasizes the profound impact of structured guidance and unwavering support in fostering creativity. Through exercises that range from crafting poems to developing full-length novels, writers like AJ have discovered newfound depths in their storytelling abilities, propelled by a desire for continuous improvement.

From First Prompt to Polished Piece

The transition from tentative beginnings to confident storytelling is akin to embarking on an odyssey where challenges are met with resilience and uncertainty gives way to clarity. University of Pittsburgh MFA Program Graduates recount how workshops and interactions with accomplished writers shaped their understanding of craft and instilled in them a sense of responsibility towards their work. The iterative process of drafting, revising, and seeking feedback serves as a crucible for refining ideas into cohesive narratives that resonate with readers.

Celebrating Your Creative Achievements

Each creative achievement—whether it be completing a short story or receiving recognition for published work—is cause for celebration and reflection. University of Pittsburgh MFA Program Graduates highlight the importance of supportive communities and rigorous academic environments in nurturing their growth as writers. By acknowledging milestones achieved along the writing journey, you affirm your dedication to continuous learning and improvement in pursuit of artistic excellence.

Looking Forward: Your Next Creative Adventure

As you reflect on past accomplishments and milestones reached, it is essential to look ahead towards new horizons brimming with creative possibilities. Keeping the spirit of "What If" alive within your writing practice ensures that curiosity remains at the heart of your storytelling endeavors.

Keeping the "What If" Alive

Embracing the essence of speculative thinking and imaginative exploration infuses freshness into your narratives, sparking innovation and originality in your storytelling. Just as William Faulkner found inspiration through interactions with renowned writers during his formative years at Pitt, engaging with diverse perspectives can invigorate your creativity and propel you towards new literary heights.

Inviting Others into Your Stories

Building connections within literary communities—be it through workshops, reading groups, or online platforms—fosters collaboration and mutual growth among writers. As University of Pittsburgh MFA Program Graduates attest, forming lasting friendships with fellow writers enriches not only your creative process but also provides invaluable support during challenging times. By inviting others into your stories, you create shared experiences that transcend individual narratives, weaving a tapestry of collective imagination.

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Grade 6 Picture Writing Prompts

20 picture prompts for grade 6.

1. Imagine you could glow in the dark like this shark. How would you feel and how do you think it would affect your life?

2. Write a story about a volcano, a necklace, a key and a skateboard!

3. Write an article about the importance of protecting the world’s trees.

4. How do you think the jaguar uses their excellent night vision to help them in the wild?

5. Which place would you like to visit most in the world and why?

6. What would you do if you found a lost cat? How would you help them to find their owner?

7. Use this picture to inspire a piece of poetry.

8. Write a persuasive argument for the importance of libraries in the community. Why should we increase the number of libraries in the world?

9. Imagine you are stranded on this island all alone. How would you survive? What skills would you need?

10. Write a report about an aspect of ocean life that interests you.

11. Explain the importance of gravity to an alien from outer space.

12. You are about to set off on a 3-day hike. What do you need in your backpack and why?

13. This is Will, Riya and Sam the Spying Giraffe. Why do you think they are so happy?

14. You have the chance to design your perfect home. What do you include and why?

15. Write a profile for a wanted character. Draw and describe their appearance. What are their character traits? Why are they wanted?

16. Music is hugely important to people around the world. Can you explain why you think this artform is so popular?

17. Scientists believe that dolphins demonstrate a high level of intelligence. Write a report based on your research to explain how dolphins show their intelligence.

18. Write a story set in the desert about a lioness, a flamingo, and a robot.

19. In a digital world, making notes and writing by hand is still important.

Write an argument stating your point of view in relation to the statement above.

20. Write a story in the first person about the time you stepped through this icy doorway.

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More writing prompts & activities

• Elementary Writing Prompts - Grade 6
• Grade 6 Writing Activities

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• Elementary Language Arts
• Elementary Writing Curriculum
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100 Creative Writing Prompts for Middle & High School – 2024

April 15, 2024

Some high school students dream of writing for a living, perhaps pursuing an English major in college, or even attending a creative writing MFA program later on. For other students, creative writing can be useful for school assignments, in English and other subjects, and also for preparing their Common App essays . In a less goal-oriented sense, daily freewriting in a journal can be a healthy life practice for many high schoolers. Not sure where to start? Continue reading for 100 creative writing prompts for middle school and high school students. These middle/high school writing prompts offer inspiration for getting started with writing in a number of genres and styles.

Click here to view the 35 Best Colleges for Creative Writing .

What are Creative Writing Prompts?

Similar to how an academic essay prompt provides a jumping-off point for forming and organizing an argument, creative writing prompts are points of initiation for writing a story, poem, or creative essay. Prompts can be useful for writers of all ages, helping many to get past writer’s block and just start (often one of the most difficult parts of a writing process).

Writing prompts come in a variety of forms. Sometimes they are phrases used to begin sentences. Other times they are questions, more like academic essay prompts Writing prompts can also involve objects such as photographs, or activities such as walking. Below, you will find high school writing prompts that use memories, objects, senses (smell/taste/touch), abstract ideas , and even songs as jumping-off points for creative writing. These prompts can be used to write in a variety of forms, from short stories to creative essays, to poems.

How to use Creative Writing Prompts

Before we get started with the list, are a few tips when using creative writing prompts:

Experiment with different formats : Prose is great, but there’s no need to limit yourself to full sentences, at least at first. A piece of creative writing can begin with a poem, or a dialogue, or even a list. You can always bring it back to prose later if needed.

Interpret the prompt broadly : The point of a creative writing prompt is not to answer it “correctly” or “precisely.” You might begin with the prompt, but then your ideas could take you in a completely different direction. The words in the prompt also don’t need to open your poem or essay, but could appear somewhere in the middle.

Switch up/pile up the prompts : Try using two or three prompts and combine them, or weave between them. Perhaps choose a main prompt, and a different “sub-prompt.” For example, your main prompt might be “write about being in transit from one place to another,” and within that prompt, you might use the prompt to “describe a physical sensation,” and/or one the dialogue prompts.  This could be a fun way to find complexity as you write.

Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School Students (Continued)

Write first, edit later : While you’re first getting started with a prompt, leave the typos and bad grammar. Obsessing over details can take away from your flow of thoughts. You will inevitably make many fixes when you go back through to edit.

Write consistently : It often becomes easier to write when it’s a practice , rather than a once-in-a-while kind of activity. For some, it’s useful to write daily. Others find time to write every few days, or every weekend. Sometimes, a word-count goal can help (100 words a day, 2,000 words a month, etc.). If you set a goal, make sure it’s realistic. Start small and build from there, rather than starting with an unachievable goal and quickly giving up.

100 Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School Teens

Here are some prompts for getting started with your creative writing. These are organized by method, rather than genre, so they can inspire writing in a variety of forms. Pick and choose the ones that work best for you, and enjoy!

Prompts using memories

• Begin each sentence or group of sentences with the phrase, “I remember…”
• Describe a family ritual.
• Choose an event in your life, and write about it from the perspective of someone else who was there.
• Pick a pathway you take on a regular basis (to school, or to a friend’s house). Describe five landmarks that you remember from this pathway.
• Write about your house or apartment using a memory from each room.
• Write an imaginary history of the previous people who lived in your house or apartment.
• Write about an ancestor based on stories you’ve heard from relatives.
• What’s your earliest memory?
• Who was your first friend?
• Write a letter to someone you haven’t seen since childhood.
• Write about yourself now from the perspective of yourself twenty, or eighty, years from now.
• Write about the best month of the year.
• Write about the worst day of the year.
• Rant about something that has always annoyed you.
• Write about the hottest or coldest day you can remember.
• Visualize a fleeting moment in your life and as though it’s a photograph, and time yourself 5 minutes to write every detail you can remember about the scene.
• Draw out a timeline of your life so far. Then choose three years to write about, as though you were writing for a history book.
• Write about a historical event in the first person, as though you remember it.
• Write about a memory of being in transit from one place to another.

Objects and photographs as creative writing prompts

• Describe the first object you see in the room. What importance does it have in your life? What memories do you have with this object? What might it symbolize?
• Pick up an object, and spend some time holding it/examining it. Write about how it looks, feels, and smells. Write about the material that it’s made from.
• Choose a favorite family photograph. What could someone know just by looking at the photograph? What’s secretly happening in the photograph?
• Choose a photograph and tell the story of this photograph from the perspective of someone or something in it.
• Write about a color by describing three objects that are that color.
• Tell the story of a piece of trash.
• Tell the story of a pair of shoes.
• Tell the story of your oldest piece of clothing.

Senses and observations as creative writing prompts

• Describe a sound you hear in the room or outside. Choose the first sound you notice. What are its qualities? It’s rhythms? What other sounds does it remind you of?
• Describe a physical sensation you feel right now, in as much detail as possible.
• Listen to a conversation and write down a phrase that you hear someone say. Start a free-write with this phrase.
• Write about a food by describing its qualities, but don’t say what it is.
• Describe a flavor (salty, sweet, bitter, etc.) to someone who has never tasted it before.
• Narrate your day through tastes you tasted.
• Narrate your day through sounds you heard.
• Narrate your day through physical sensations you felt.
• Describe in detail the physical process of doing an action you consider simple or mundane, like walking or lying down or chopping vegetables.
• Write about the sensation of doing an action you consider physically demanding or tiring, like running or lifting heavy boxes.
• Describe something that gives you goosebumps.
• Write a story that involves drinking a cold glass of water on a hot day.
• Write a story that involves entering a warm house from a cold snowy day.
• Describe someone’s facial features in as much detail as possible.

Songs, books, and other art

• Choose a song quote, write it down, and free-write from there.
• Choose a song, and write a story in which that song is playing in the car.
• Choose a song, and write to the rhythm of that song.
• Choose a character from a book, and describe an event in your life from the perspective of that character.
• Go to a library and write down 10 book titles that catch your eye. Free-write for 5 minutes beginning with each one.
• Go to a library and open to random book pages, and write down 5 sentences that catch your attention. Use those sentences as prompts and free-write for 5-minutes with each.
• Choose a piece of abstract artwork. Jot down 10 words that come to mind from the painting or drawing, and free-write for 2 minutes based on each word.
• Find a picture of a dramatic Renaissance painting online. Tell a story about what’s going on in the painting that has nothing to do with what the artist intended.
• Write about your day in five acts, like a Shakespearean play. If your day were a play, what would be the introduction, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution?
• Narrate a complicated book or film plot using only short sentences.
• Read a short poem. Then write a poem that could be a “sister” or “cousin” of that poem.

Abstract ideas as creative writing prompts

• Write about an experience that demonstrates an abstract idea, such as “love” or “home” or “freedom” or “loss” without ever using the word itself.
• Write a list of ways to say “hello” without actually saying “hello.”
• Write a list of ways to say “I love you” without actually saying “I love you.”
• Do you believe in ghosts? Describe a ghost.
• Invent a mode of time travel.
• Glass half-full/half-empty: Write about an event or situation with a positive outlook. Then write about it with a miserable outlook.
• Free-write beginning with “my religion is…” (what comes next can have as much or as little to do with organized religion as you’d like).
• Free-write beginning with “my gender is…” (what comes next can have as much or as little to do with common ideas of gender as you’d like).
• Write about a person or character that is “good” and one that is “evil.” Then write about the “evil” in the good character and the “good” in the evil character.
• Write like you’re telling a secret.
• Describe a moment of beauty you witnessed. What makes something beautiful?

Prompts for playing with narrative and character

• Begin writing with the phrase, “It all started when…”
• Tell a story from the middle of the most dramatic part.
• Write a story that begins with the ending.
• Begin a story but give it 5 possible endings.
• Write a list of ways to dramatically quit a terrible job.
• Write about a character breaking a social rule or ritual (i.e., walking backwards, sitting on the floor of a restaurant, wearing a ballgown to the grocery store). What are the ramifications?
• You are sent to the principal’s office. Justify your bad behavior.
• Re-write a well-known fairytale but set it in your school.
• Write your own version of the TV show trope where someone gets stuck in an elevator with a stranger, or a secret love interest, or a nemesis.
• Imagine a day where you said everything you were thinking, and write about it.
• Write about a scenario in which you have too much of a good thing.
• Write about a scenario in which money can buy happiness.
• Invent a bank or museum heist.
• Invent a superhero, including an origin story.
• Write using the form of the scientific method (question, hypothesis, test, analyze data conclusion).
• Write using the form of a recipe.

Middle School & High School Creative writing prompts for playing with fact vs. fiction

• Write something you know for sure is true, and then, “but maybe it isn’t.” Then explain why that thing may not be true.
• Write a statement and contradict that statement. Then do it again.
• Draft an email with an outlandish excuse as to why you didn’t do your homework or why you need an extension.
• Write about your morning routine, and make it sound extravagant/luxurious (even if it isn’t).
• You’ve just won an award for doing a very mundane and simple task. Write your acceptance speech.
• Write about a non-athletic event as though it were a sports game.
• Write about the most complicated way to complete a simple task.
• Write a brief history of your life, and exaggerate everything.
• Write about your day, but lie about some things.
• Tell the story of your birth.
• Choose a historical event and write an alternative outcome.
• Write about a day in the life of a famous person in history.
• Read an instructional manual, and change three instructions to include some kind of magical or otherwise impossible element.

Prompts for starting with dialogue

• Write a texting conversation between two friends who haven’t spoken in years.
• Write a texting conversation between two friends who speak every day and know each other better than anyone.
• Watch two people on the street having a conversation, and imagine the conversation they’re having. Write it down.
• Write an overheard conversation behind a closed door that you shouldn’t be listening to.
• Write a conversation between two characters arguing about contradicting memories of what happened.
• You have a difficult decision to make. Write a conversation about it with yourself.
• Write a conversation with a total lack of communication.
• Write a job interview gone badly.

Final Thoughts – Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School & High School 

Hopefully you have found several of these creative writing prompts helpful. Remember that when writing creatively, especially on your own, you can mix, match, and change prompts. For more on writing for high school students, check out the following articles:

• College Application Essay Topics to Avoid
• 160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics
• 150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
• Good Transition Words for Essays
• High School Success

Sarah Mininsohn

With a BA from Wesleyan University and an MFA from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sarah is a writer, educator, and artist. She served as a graduate instructor at the University of Illinois, a tutor at St Peter’s School in Philadelphia, and an academic writing tutor and thesis mentor at Wesleyan’s Writing Workshop.

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