narrative essay prompts for middle school

The Best Narrative Writing Prompts for Middle School

Narrative writing can be super exciting, especially when guided by a super fun prompt!

Prompts are powerful tools for inspiring students to their best writing. They allow you to guide and help young learners stay focused on a specific topic as they engage in the writing process. Furthermore, the sheer simplicity of writing prompts in middle school classrooms, compared to worksheets or handouts , makes them the perfect last-minute addition to any lesson plan.

In this article, we’re giving you a few narrative writing prompts for middle school that students will absolutely love! Before we begin, however, let’s take a quick look at the importance of narrative writing.

The importance of narrative writing

People ask–why do students need to learn narrative writing? For teachers, the answer is simple. Many standardized tests , such as the Louisiana Education Assessment Program (LEAP), require students to demonstrate their ability to analyze and write narratives.

Learning to write narratives helps learners understand narrative structure, which in return, improves their reading comprehension. Thus, a wholistic approach to narrative instruction, which includes both reading and writing, is an effective way to help students place higher on standardized assessments.

Aside from test-related motivations to study narratives, this particular style of writing gives students a creative outlet for expressing themselves. As a matter of fact, narrative writing is often called “creative writing.”

The purpose of a narrative is to tell audiences a story, and students are given countless opportunities to make creative choices when telling stories. Through writing, they learn to develop a unique voice and imbue their work with a distinct, personal touch.

“…students are given countless opportunities to make creative choices when telling stories.”

Example middle school narrative writing prompts

As promised, here are a the best–and only–narrative writing prompts for middle school students you’ll ever need!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live as your favorite animal? What animal would you be? What would you do during a typical day? What challenges might you face? Write a narrative essay about what a day in the life as your favorite animal would be like. Use the questions in the prompt to guide your response.
Imagine winning the lottery tomorrow. What would you do with the money? Would you spend it? If so, what would you buy? Would you save it? If so, why? Write a narrative essay describing what you would do after winning the lottery. Use the questions in the prompt to guide your response.
Everyone has fears, and sometimes we have to face them. What is your worst fear? When did the fear begin? Why does it make you afraid? How could you overcome it? Write a narrative about overcoming your worst fear. Use the questions in the prompt to guide your response.
At some point, we have all had an opportunity to be strong. What has been your strongest moment? Were you mentally or physically strong? Or both? What did it feel like? Write a narrative essay about a time when you were strong. Use the questions in the prompt to guide your response.
Imagine you are elected president of the United States. What would you say to the American people during your inauguration speech? How would you run the country? What laws would you pass? What laws would you abolish? Write a narrative essay about what you would do as the president of the United States. Use the questions in the prompt to guide your response.

Rather use narrative writing handouts? Make sure to explore our Resource section for additional teaching tools.

Final words

These narrative writing prompts for middle school students are simple, fun, and effective. Try them out and witness the endless creative stories your students will come up with!

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50 Narrative Essay Topics

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but a narrative essay can also tell an exciting story and create vivid pictures in the reader’s mind! We’ve got 50 narrative essay topics designed to prompt students to craft memorable written narratives. These can be modified for students in elementary, middle and high school. Feel free to print the entire narrative essay topics list for plenty of inspiration for your next narrative essay assignment!

Narrative Essay Topics

Your first day of school.
Your most exciting day of school
A field trip that your class took.
Your favorite summer vacation.
A trip that included something unexpected or surprising.
A time that you experienced something spooky.
A time that you experienced something truly frightening.
A time that you learned something new that changed you in some way.
The moment when you met someone who changed your life.
The day that you got your first pet.
A move from one place to another.
Something funny that happened to you.
Something funny that happened to one of your family members or friends.
Something embarrassing that happened to you.
Your favorite birthday party.
A birthday that was disappointing.
A big storm (rain, snow or even a tornado!).
A time that the power went out.
A summer day when the temperature got much higher than expected.
A time when you went to an amusement park.
A time when you got lost somewhere.
A memorable experience with a favorite family member.
A sad experience with someone about whom you care.
Your most exciting moment playing sports.
Your most exciting moment performing in a play, singing, playing music or dancing.
An experience that left you feeling frustrated.
An experience that was hard but ended up being worth it.
A time that you experienced rejection.
A weird encounter with a stranger.
A random act of kindness.
A time that you took a stand for someone or for an issue that you care about.
A moment when you thought you might get hurt but didn’t.
Breaking a bone (or otherwise suffering an injury).
Your first time away from home for the night (or longer).
A time when you experienced a historic event.
Where you were when a major event happened. (Note: You don’t need to have been at the site of the event; this prompt is about where you were when you found out about the event and how you reacted.)
A time when you rebelled against your parents or teacher.
A dangerous experience.
A misunderstanding between yourself and someone else.
A difficult decision that you had to make.
The end of a friendship or relationship.
The beginning of a friendship or relationship.
A time when you judged someone first and then realized that you were wrong about the person.
A time when someone judged you first and then realized that he or she was wrong about you.
A moment when you felt that you were starting to grow up.
A time when you saw one or both of your parents in a different light.
A time when you looked up to your older sibling.
A time when your younger sibling looked up to you.
A time when you were grateful to be an only child.
An experience that you think has only ever happened to you!

Looking for more essay topics? Compare and Contrast Essay Topics Descriptive Essay Topics Cause and Effect Essay Topics Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics

Writing Prompts

150 Writing Prompts For Middle School (+Free Printable)

Make writing fun and easy, with these 150 writing prompts for middle school students.

The more you write, the better you become at writing. But the problem is not all middle schoolers enjoy writing. There’s always something better to do, playing video games , watching YouTube videos , hanging with friends , lazing about the house – Why bother writing, right? The trick is to understand that even the smallest piece of writing can make a huge difference in a student’s attitude towards writing.

If you unload too many lengthy assignments, such as writing 1,000 words on topic X or 3,000 about something, something – Writing can seem like a long, boring chore for some students. But if you break it down, and mix it up a bit, then your students have a real chance of actually liking writing for fun. Think of creating small writing tasks that take no longer than around 10 or 15 minutes to complete. As students complete these small tasks with ease, their confidence will grow, eventually turning them into avid young writers.

To help inspire and motivate young writers, we have created this list of 150 quick and easy writing prompts for Middle School students. Keep reading for a free printable writing pack for middle schoolers as well! Here is a quick generator that will generate a random middle school prompt for you:

For more fun writing ideas, check out this list of over 300 writing prompt for kids .

150 Writing Prompts For Middle School Students

This list of prompts is great for whenever your middle-schooler is bored and needs some quick ideas to write about:

Make a list of at least three different opening lines for this story idea: A space knight living in outer space wants to fight a real fire-breathing dragon.
Complete this sentence in at least three different ways: When I’m bored, I like to…
Draw a picture of your dream house, and describe some of the coolest features it has.
Make a top ten list of the scariest animals in the animal kingdom. You could even write down one scary fact about each animal.
Write an acrostic poem using the letters that spell z-o-m-b-i-e.
Describe the scariest monster that you can think of. You could even draw a picture of it.
Complete the following sentence in at least three different ways: My goal for the next month is to…
Make a top ten list of your favourite foods of all time. You could even write down one reason for why each food is your favourite.
Create your own A-Z book or list of monsters. For A is for Abominable Snowman, B is for Bogeyman and so on.
Research and write down five facts about an endangered species of your choice. Examples of endangered species include the blue whale, giant pandas, snow leopards and tigers.
Create a postcard for your local town or city. What picture would you draw on the front? And what message could you include on the back?
Write an acrostic poem using the letters that spell out your own first name. This poem could be about yourself.
Make a top ten list of your favourite movies of all time.
Make a top ten list of your favourite songs of all time.
Complete the following sentence in at least three different ways. When I grow up I want to…
Which is your favourite season, Winter , Spring , Summer or Autumn? Write a haiku poem about your favourite season.
Create a party invite for a dinner party at your house. Think about the party theme, entertainment, food and dress code.
Write down a recipe that uses eggs as one of the ingredients.
Write a how-to guide on how to take care of a kitten or puppy.
What do you enjoy doing on the weekends? Start by making a list of activities that you do on the weekend. Then you can pick one to write about in more detail.
Using a photograph (or one of these picture writing prompts ), write a short caption or description to go alongside it.
Imagine you are the owner of a new restaurant. Create a menu of the dishes you will serve at this restaurant.
What has been the best part of your day so far? And what has been the worst part of the day?
Imagine that you have a time machine. What year would you travel to and why?
If you could have one superpower, what would it be and why?
If you could keep one dinosaur as a pet, which dinosaur would you pick and why?
Write down everything you remember from a recent nightmare that you had.
What is your favourite country in the whole wide world? List at least five fun facts about this country.
Make a list of at least 3 different story ideas about aliens.
Create a character description of the world’s most evil supervillains.
What is your greatest achievement to date? What are you most proud of and why?
Write an action-packed scene that contains the following: A car chase, a lucky pair of socks and a talking parrot.
What advice would you give to someone who is being bullied? You could make a list of at least three pieces of advice that you might give.
Imagine you are stuck on a desert island. Write a diary entry of your first day on the island.
Imagine you are a pirate sailing the seven seas. Talk about the scariest thing you faced while out at sea.
You just discovered a new planet . Can you describe this new planet in detail? What would you call it? Does any life exist on the planet? What type of climate does it have?
Would you rather have a magical unicorn as a pet or a fire-breathing dragon?
Complete the following sentence in at least three different ways: One day I was walking through the forest and discovered…
Write a letter to your friend about a favourite memory you have of them. You can use the following starter as inspiration: Remember that time…
Make a list of book title ideas for a story about a girl who can go invisible whenever she wants.
A talking cat is fast asleep, then suddenly someone wakes it up. Write down a short script between the cat, and the person arguing.
What is the nicest thing that anyone has done for you recently?
Make a list of 10 online safety tips to help you stay safe online.
Can you think of at least 5 ways to prevent climate change in your daily life?
Make a list of your top ten favourite books of all time.
Think about a movie that you’ve seen recently. What did you enjoy most about this movie, and what did you dislike about it?
You are just about to take a bite of an apple. And then suddenly the apple starts screaming. What do you do next?
Describe a magical forest in great detail. What makes this forest so magical?
Write a super scary scene, using the following starter: As I walked into the haunted house…
What is your greatest fear? Is it possible to ever overcome this fear? If so, how would you do it?
Make a list of at least five things you like about yourself. And then make a list of five things that you would change about yourself.
What would the perfect day look like for you? How would it start? What activities would you do? And how does it end?
You are standing in the playground when you hear two of your classmates making fun of your best friend. What do you do next?
A young boy yells at his pet eagle to fly away into the wild. The eagle does not respond. Write down this scene between the two characters in great detail.
Describe a pencil in the greatest detail possible.
Create your own superhero character. What are their strengths and superpowers? What about their weaknesses? Also, think of a cool superhero name for them!
What is your dream job? What skills and traits do you need to do this job well?
Imagine that you have had the worst day ever. Write down what happened to make it so bad.
What is your favourite colour? Now write a short rhyming poem about this colour.
If you had three wishes, what would you wish for and why? Wishing for extra wishes is not allowed.
Write an action-packed scene of a lion chasing a zebra in the wild from the perspective of the lion.
Imagine you own a video gaming company. Your task is to come up with a new video game idea. Explain this new video game idea in detail.
What would you do if you were given $1 million dollars?
What is your favourite hobby or interest? Can you provide at least five tips for beginners who might be interested in starting this hobby?
Make a top ten list of your favourite celebrities or YouTube stars.
Write the opening paragraph of a fairytale about a zombie prince who has returned from the dead.
Write an alternative ending to a fairytale that you are familiar with. For example, you could write a sad ending for Cinderella or a cliff-hanger style ending for Jack and the Beanstalk.
Write down a conversation in a script format between two people waiting for the bus at a bus stop.
Would you rather get abducted by aliens, or discover a magical portal to another realm in your bedroom? Explain your answer.
Write a shape poem about your favourite food in the shape of this food.
If you had to prepare for a zombie invasion, which three items would you pack in your bag, and why?
Describe the most beautiful garden in the world in detail. What type of flowers would it have? Would it have any garden furniture?
You receive a strange parcel in the middle of the night. You open the parcel to discover… Write down at least one paragraph of what you discover in the parcel.
Use the word, ‘Stampede’ in at least three different sentences.
Complete the following metaphor in at least three different ways: Your smile is like…
Describe the city of the future. What would the buildings look like? How will people travel? What kind of homes will people live in?
What is Marie Curie (the physicist) famous for? Research and write down five facts about her research and studies.
You have just been made leader of the Kingdom of Kinloralm. As the leader, what rules would you set for the kingdom? Make a list of at least 10 rules that you will enforce.
A witch has cast a spell on you. Every night at midnight, you turn into a werewolf. Describe this transformation in great detail. What does it feel like when you are transforming? How does your skin change? What about your teeth and fingernails?
Using the following starter , write at least one paragraph: When I look outside the window…
After a deep sleep, you wake up to find yourself locked inside a cage. No one else is around. What do you do next?
You keep on having the same nightmare every night. In your nightmare, you are running as fast as you can, and then you suddenly fall. When you turn around you see… Write at least one paragraph about what you see.
Write down at least 10 interview questions that you can ask your favourite celebrity. If you have time, you can even write down the potential answers to these questions from the perspective of the celebrity.
Write a how-to guide on how to grow tomatoes at home.
Make a list of at least five tips for keeping your bedroom clean.
Would you rather drive the fastest car on Earth for one hour or own a custom-made bicycle? Explain your choice.
Write a limerick poem about an old snail.
Find something in your room that begins with the letter, ‘R’, and write a paragraph describing this object in detail.
Research the history of how the first mobile phone was invented. Create a timeline of mobile phone inventions from the very first mobile to the current time.
If you were the headteacher of your school, what changes would you make and why? Try to list and describe at least three changes.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of having access to the internet? Try to think of at least five benefits and five drawbacks.
Write about the best day of your life so far. Then write about the worst day of your life so far.
Imagine that you are an agony aunt for a newspaper. A reader has written to you with the following problem: Dear Agony Aunt, I have no friends at school. And my classmates are always making fun of me… What advice would you give this reader?
Imagine that you are a salesperson. Your task is to sell a new chocolate bar to customers. Write down a sales pitch that was selling this chocolate bar. What features would you highlight? What are the benefits of this chocolate bar?
Can you complete the following sentence in three different ways: When I feel upset, I …
What is the most difficult part about being in middle school? What is the best part of middle school?
Imagine that your best friend has just revealed a huge secret. How would you react? Write down a script of the conversation between you and your best friend.
Have you learned any new skills recently? How did you learn these?
Imagine you are sitting at a dinner party with a group of strangers. Describe the atmosphere in great detail. Who are you sitting next to? What sort of conversations are the other guests having? What food is being served?
Five years from now, where will you be? Will you be the same person? How would you have changed?
Write about your plans for the weekend.
Describe a day in the life of being a goldfish in a fishbowl at a pet shop.
While at the seaside, a message in a bottle washes up onto the shore. You open the bottle and read the message. The message reads: Help Me! I’m stranded on an island! What do you do next?
A mother and her son are baking some muffins in the kitchen. Write down a conversation that they might have while they bake together.
Make a list of indoor activities you can do when it’s raining outside. Try to think of at least ten activities.
Write down a diary entry from the perspective of an alien secretly living undercover on Earth.
Write at least three different opening lines for the following story idea: A king needs to keep his kingdom safe from the ravenous trolls that come out at night.
Imagine you are a secret agent cat, write about your most recent mission.
Complete the following sentence in at least three different ways: If I could change the world, I would…
If you could program a robot, what tasks would you program it to do, and why?
Imagine you are the owner of a toy shop. Your task is to hire some toy makers. Write a job description for a toymaker. Think about the skills and traits required to become a toymaker.
You are the owner of a zoo. Suddenly you hear people screaming as the lions are accidentally released. What do you do next?
Your future self comes from the future to warn you about something. Write a conversation that you would have with your future self.
If you had a choice to become a superhero or a supervillain, which one would you be and why?
Can you think of at least three things that no one knows about you? Why have you kept these things a secret?
During a science experiment, you mix up the wrong chemicals. The liquid turns blue and jumps out of the glass container. It then slides into your backpack. What do you do next?
Write down at least five things that you are grateful for in your life right now.
You notice some strange footprints in your backyard leading to your shed. You follow these footprints and discover…
When was the last time someone upset you or hurt your feelings? How did they hurt your feelings? Do you remember what was said?
You walk inside a magic shop. You see all sorts of weird and fun things. Describe the inside of the shop in as much detail as possible.
Write at least three different opening lines for the following story idea: A young werewolf wants to be a human again.
Make a list of three different story ideas about dragons.
Write from the perspective of a kite flying high in the sky. Think about what you feel, see and hear.
Write about your favourite subject at school. Why do you like this subject?
Write a haiku poem about the full moon.
Imagine you are the manager of a TV channel. Make a list of at least three new TV show ideas you can air on Saturday evening.
You find a baby alien in your basement. What do you do next?
Think of at least three newspaper headlines for the following article idea: The new mayor of your town/city is planning on creating more homes.
Imagine that your pet dog has gone missing. Create a missing poster to find your dog. Remember to describe any important details relating to the dog in your power.
Write an advertisement for the brand new mixer 3000. It mixes all the best music tracks with sounds to create the ultimate track.
Write down three sentences. One of something interesting that happened to you today. Another of something positive that happened. And finally another sentence of something negative.
Write down four different character descriptions. Each character must have a different background story or history when growing up.
Imagine you had a terrible experience at a restaurant. Write a complaint letter to the restaurant manager, outlining the problems you had.
Imagine your family is planning to go on a cruise. As you drive to the boat, a person walks up to your car window, holds up a flyer, and demands that they do what they were told. What is your family’s reply?
As you’re making your way home, you pass by a group of people. It turns out the person who was walking next to them is a ghost. What do you do next?
Your best friend has had a terrible year. You need to plan the best birthday party ever for them. Make a list of items that you will need for the party.
Using the 5 W’s and 1 H technique, outline the following newspaper article idea: A new breed of wolves was discovered nearby. The 5 W’s include: What, Where, When, Who and why. The one H is How.
Write a positive self-talk poem, using the following starter: I am…
Take a recent picture that you have drawn at home or during art class. Using this picture, can you think of at least three ideas for stories from it?
How can you prevent bullying in your school? Make a list of at least five different ways to prevent bullying.
Write a list of at least 10 interview questions that you can ask your favourite teacher at school. If you want, you can actually ask these questions and write down the responses your teacher gives.
Describe a day in the life of being a mouse that lives in your school.
What qualities to look for in a friend? Make a list of at least 3 qualities. Also, think about what qualities you try to avoid.
Complete the following sentence in at least three different ways: When I wake up in the morning, I feel…
Do you ever wish you could do more to help people? Make a list of at least five ways you can help a friend who is going through a tough time.
When was the last time you felt angry? How did you deal with this anger? Do you think it is okay to be angry all the time?
Write down at least three predictions for the future. These predictions can be personal or about the world. You can use the following starter: In 10 years time…
Do you enjoy writing? If yes, then what kind of things do you enjoy writing about. Explain your answer.
Think about the last book you read. Which scene in the book stood out to you the most? Why did it stand out for you?
Complete the following sentence in at least three different ways: The biggest question on my mind right now is…

What did you think of this list of quick and easy writing prompts for Middle School students? Did you find this list useful or difficult to use? Let us know in the comments below!

Printable Writing Pack for Middle Schoolers

Thank you for reading this post! You can download the free PDF writing prompts for Middle School students pack here .

Marty the wizard is the master of Imagine Forest. When he's not reading a ton of books or writing some of his own tales, he loves to be surrounded by the magical creatures that live in Imagine Forest. While living in his tree house he has devoted his time to helping children around the world with their writing skills and creativity.

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20 Prompts for Narrative Writing That Spark Creativity

Using prompts for narrative writing motivates kids and gets them excited to write. Read on to learn more about narrative writing, mentor texts, ideas, and assessments. Plus you will find 20 fun prompts for narrative and personal narrative writing. These will be sure to spark student’s creativity and imagination!

What’s Narrative Writing?

Narrative writing tells a story using a beginning, middle, and end. It includes elements such as characters, setting, problem, and solution. The author’s purpose is usually to entertain or teach a lesson. Narrative writing can be fact or fiction but the process is the same. When it’s a real story from the author’s life, it is considered a personal narrative.

Examples for Narrative Writing

There are so many wonderful examples of narrative writing. Some are even written as personal narratives. Below you will find a list of mentor texts for elementary school. It’s helpful to immerse students in the genre before and during a narrative writing unit. These books model different strategies that kids can try in their writing.

Narrative Writing Mentor Texts:

Owl Moon by Jane Yolen
Come on, Rain! by Karen Hesse
Those Shoes by Maribeth Boelts
Fireflies! by Julie Brinckloe
Knuffle Bunny by Mo Willems
Jabari Jumps by Gaia Cornwall
Enemy Pie by Derek Munson
Blackout by John Rocco

Narrative Writing Teaching

There are many features to include in narrative writing, but it depends on the grade level being taught. For the lower grades, it’s important to start with the concept of beginning, middle, and end written in sequential order. Then you can expand to the introduction, body, and conclusion using details. Other important elements are character, setting, problem, and solution. As the student’s abilities increase the number of sentences will grow and expand to paragraphs.

For the older grades, you can introduce plot structure. It follows the beginning, middle, and end format but on a higher level. This story arc includes exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution. Use the diagram below to see how these features overlap.

Plot Structure

Topics for Narrative Writing

The possibilities are endless when it comes to narrative writing ideas. Kids can create a fiction piece or write about an experience in their life. Check out some writing prompt ideas below for narrative and personal narrative writing. You might also like this blog post about opinion writing prompts: 20 Prompts for Opinion Writing That Motivate Kids

Writing Prompts for Narratives

I was taking my friend’s picture in front of the volcano when all of a sudden . . .
What if you were given 3 wishes but couldn’t use them on yourself. Tell a story about what you would wish for and why.
Write a story called, “The Luckiest Day of My Life.”
Imagine you went to the zoo and could take home any animal for the day. Tell a story about your time together.
Write a silly story that uses these words: airplane, grapes, elephant, and book.
You have just been shrunk down to the size of an ant. Write a story including the good and bad things about being so small.
Think about your favorite character from a book. Tell a story about getting to meet them for the first time.
What would happen if you lived during a time when there was no electricity? Write a story about your school day.
Finish this story: The pirates set sail on their ship in search of . . .
Suppose you were teacher for a day. Write a story about the changes you would make.

Writing Prompts for Personal Narratives

Have you ever been so proud of yourself for learning something new? Write a story about a time this happened.
Write a story about a time you felt your heart race. What happened and how were you feeling at the end?
What was your most memorable vacation? Tell a story from part of that trip and why it stands out in your mind.
Have you ever done something you knew would get you in big trouble? Write a story about a time this happened and how you felt about it.
Write a story about the strangest thing that has ever happened to you. Why was it so unusual?
What was your most memorable moment from this year? Write a story telling why it’s so special.
Tell a story about a time when you were so excited and couldn’t wait for an event to happen.
Write a small moment story about a time you had with your favorite person.
Write about a time that you lost something important. Tell whether or not you found it.
Think about the worst day you ever had. What made it so terrible and did it get better by the end?

Rubrics for Narrative Writing

I often hear from teachers that one of the most difficult parts of teaching writing is how to assess it. Assessments should be accurate and helpful for both the student and teacher. When it comes to narrative writing, there are many different approaches. Some teachers prefer to do a more informal assessment for daily writing pieces and then a formal assessment for the final copy. Informal assessments can be completed with written comments or student-teacher conferences.

It would be very difficult to use a rubric for every narrative writing a student completes in their notebook. Instead, most teachers prefer to choose one to three writing pieces to assess with a rubric. These assessments are ideal for benchmarks, progress reports, and report cards. Below you will find three types of narrative writing rubrics. Check out this blog post to learn more about student-friendly, teacher-friendly, and time-saving rubrics: 3 Types of Writing Rubrics for Effective Assessments

Narrative writing enables kids to be creative and use their imagination. They can write a fiction story or about a real event from their life. Writing prompts are a helpful tool to get kids engaged and ready to get started. Did you grab your Free Writing Prompt Guide yet? I love using prompts for morning work, writing time, centers, or as a homework assignment. The possibilities are endless! Be sure to try these prompts for narrative writing with your students!

Genre Based Prompts

20 Prompts for Opinion Writing That Motivate Kids
What is Narrative Writing
A Complete Guide to Narrative Writing
Personal Narrative Writing for Elementary School
Narrative Writing: How to Teach a Story Arc That’s as Exciting as a Roller Coaster

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Narrative Writing Prompts to Assign Your Students: 10 Writing Prompts for Narrative Essays

While I am a huge advocate of assigning writing to students at the beginning of the school year , middle school ELA and high school English teachers can assign narrative writing at any point in the year. In this blog post, I’m going to share 10 narrative writing prompts with you!

Teaching students about narrative writing and assigning a narrative writing project helps students work on their creativity, while also focusing on important literary elements. I explain to my students that just like the short stories that we read and analyze in class, they also need to create a setting that enhances the lot. Just like the short stories we read and analyze in class, they also need to fully develop the protagonist and antagonist.

Once students see this connection, they become stronger readers and writers. To help with this concept, my narrative writing teaching unit helps walk students step-by-step throughout the process.

Here are 10 narrative writing prompts to consider using in your classroom.

Personal narrative prompts.

When I choose one of these personal narrative writing prompts, since I teach high school, I also explain to my students that they most likely will be able to use some of what they’ve written for a college admissions essay or scholarship essay.

Write about a time when you worked hard toward accomplishing a goal. Tell the story about the goal, why you set the goal, the steps you took to accomplish the goal, and how you felt once it was accomplished.
Write about the accomplishment you are most proud of. In your narrative, explain your accomplishment, describe why you are most proud of it, and tell the story surrounding it.
Write about a time when you experienced hardship or failure. In your narrative, elaborate on the hardship. Explain the events and your feelings surrounding the hardship or failure, and how you have grown from the experience.
Write about your best childhood memory. In your narrative, tell the story of that memory.
Write about an event from your past that has shaped the person who you are today. In your narrative, tell the story surrounding that event and explain its significance on who you are today.

Fictional Narrative Prompts

Fictional Narrative Writing Prompts for the Secondary ELA Classroom

The day started out like any other. However, as soon as I woke up, I quickly realized…
Two characters explore an area in a field. During their explorations, they find a secret passage, a sort of tunnel to a new dimension. The characters step into the tunnel and are immediately transported to…
Choose your favorite fictional character from any fairy tale or superhero story and write an alternate story for that character.
The clock was tickly so slowly. It seemed as if time was moving backward and now forwards…
Cautiously, she/he/they opened the door and stepped inside. There was no going back now…

Teach Narrative Writing in Your Secondary ELA Classroom

Engage your students in this exciting and comprehensive narrative writing unit! This standards-based narrative writing unit includes materials for both a personal narrative and a fictional narrative and includes everything you need to teach narrative writing to your middle and high school students, including both the print and digital files!

Walk your students step-by-step through the writing process with the materials in this unit. From brainstorming and organizing to peer editing, this narrative writing unit has it all!

Here is what fellow teachers say about this narrative writing unit!

Narrative Writing Prompts for the Secondary ELA Classroom

“This was an excellent resource for narrative writing in my special education class. My students use the Amplify ELA curriculum, but struggle with writing. Our first unit was in writing narratives, so I chose this resource to help break down the parts of their story by focusing on characters, settings, conflict, and planning out the plot separately. The result was more well thought out responses to their prompt. The slideshow for instruction was also well made and easy to read. Thank you!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Extremely satisfied

“ I used this as part my short story writing unit with my grade eights. It was an excellent way to set up their stories. I wanted to make sure my students really know all parts of their story before sitting down to writing their first draft. This resource really helped them get to know all aspects of their story.”

“ Teaching narrative writing is definitely NOT my strength! However, this resource made it so much easier!! Piecing together our stories by plot elements was so effective in getting my students on the path to creating some awesome stories! I will never teach narrative any other way! This is it!”

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65 Engaging Personal Narrative Ideas for Kids and Teens

Tell a story to engage the reader.

Personal narrative essays are all about telling stories. Engage your reader with lots of descriptive language, and ensure you have a beginning, middle, and end. ( Get more tips about teaching narrative writing here. ) Try these personal narrative ideas to inspire kids and teens to tell meaningful stories from their own lives, no matter what they’ve experienced.

“Describe a Time When You …” Personal Narrative Ideas

Firsts and bests personal narrative ideas, general personal narrative essay ideas, college essay personal narrative ideas.

These personal narrative ideas urge students to dig into their past experiences and share them with their audience. Be sure to share the details, including what took place and how it made you feel, and anything you learned from the experience.

Describe a time when you:

Were scared
Overcame a big challenge
Learned an important life lesson
Had to make a difficult decision

Were proud of a friend or family member
Did something you didn’t want to and ended up liking it
Met a celebrity or someone you really admire
Tried something new
Made a mistake and had to apologize and/or fix the mistake
Were in danger
Helped someone in need
Had a dream come true
Felt inspired
Had a really terrible day

Were a leader
Made someone else laugh
Did something you later regretted
Set a goal and achieved it

These essay topics explore the times you did something for the first time ever, or when you were the best version of yourself.

Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.

Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
Tell about your proudest moment.
What is your happiest memory?
What is your earliest memory?
Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
What’s the best (or worst!) vacation you’ve ever taken?
Tell the story of the time you got your first pet.
Describe your favorite field trip of all time.
Tell the story of your first day of kindergarten.
What’s the best meal you’ve ever eaten?
Describe the best party or celebration you’ve ever attended.
Tell about the first time someone ever paid you for work (first job, chores for a neighbor, babysitting, etc.) and how it made you feel.

Describe the first time you spent a night away from home without your family.
What’s the best gift you’ve ever been given?

Here are more personal narrative topics to inspire young writers.

Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.
Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.

Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
Describe your morning routine from the time you wake up until the moment the school bell rings to start the day.
Share what you do on a typical non-school day.
Tell about a time when you were injured. How did it happen?
Describe an argument you and a friend had and how you resolved it.
Tell about what you think your life will be like when you’re 25 years old.
Explore a time when you felt you were treated unfairly.
What makes your family different from everyone else’s family?
If you could relive any day in your life, what would it be? Would you want it to be the same or different?

These personal narrative essay topics all come from real 2022–2023 college applications. ( See more college essay prompts here. )

Discuss a time when reflection or introspection led to clarity or understanding of an issue that is important to you.
Share an example of how you have used your own critical-thinking skills on a specific subject, project, idea, or interest.

Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you.
Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.
When was the last time you questioned something you had thought to be true?
Reflect on a time when you or someone you observed had to make a choice about whether to act with integrity and honesty.
Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
Describe a time when you were challenged by a perspective that differed from your own. How did you respond?
Elaborate on an activity or experience you have had that made an impact on a community that is important to you.

Describe any meaningful travel experiences you’ve had.
Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.
What is the greatest compliment you have ever been given? Why was it meaningful to you?
What has been your best academic experience in the last two years, and what made it so good?
Describe a time when you’ve felt empowered or represented by an educator.
Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

What are your favorite personal narrative ideas? Come share on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the big list of essay topics for high school (100+ ideas) ..

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EveryWriter

A New Community of Writers

300 Writing Prompts for Middle School Students

February 15, 2024 by Richard Leave a Comment

Here are 300 Writing Prompts for Middle School Students, when looking to engage middle school students in daily writing, it can be difficult to come up with enough creative yet educationally meaningful prompts to fill the school year. That’s why I was thrilled to uncover an incredible list of over 300 Writing Prompts for Middle School Students. With about 180 school days, this mega list of prompts could last nearly two school years without repeating! As a middle school teacher striving to make writing fun while also pushing my students to think deeper, stretch their perspectives, and grow their skills, I appreciate prompts tuned specifically to 11-14 year olds on topics that resonate with their developmental stage and experiences.

The list has prompts spanning popular middle school genres and themes ranging from relationships with friends, family, teachers, and community; to personal growth around emotions, hardships, ethics, and decision making; to navigating their changing identity and society around them. Examples that caught my eye include: “How can peers positively stand up to bullying?” and “What leadership lesson challenged you?” Imagine how students will light up responding to prompts that speak their language and tap into what they care about! With 300 on deck, I can target different skills and rotate in new prompts easily. This treasury of writing ideas unlocks an exciting year ahead!

These prompts are organized in the following categories:

On Relationships

On technology, on emotions.

Issues in Schools
Entertainment
On Hero/Role Models
Write about what being a good friend means to you.
Describe your best friend and what makes your relationship special.
Write about a time a friend disappointed you. What happened and how did you handle it?
What is the best advice about friendship you have ever received? Who gave you the advice?
Describe a time you and your friend had an argument. How did you resolve it? What did you learn?
What qualities do you look for in choosing friends? Explain why those qualities are important.
What is your favorite memory with your best friend? What happened that makes it so memorable?
Should friends always agree with each other? Explain your opinion using an example from your life.
Write about a person who has been a mentor for you. How have they impacted your life?
Describe how you balance time between family and friends. Give examples.
Do you find making new friends easy or hard? Discuss a time you made a new friend.
Explain three qualities that make someone a good family member. Provide examples from your experiences.
Describe your relationship with your siblings or extended family members. Use examples.
Should family always come before friends? Discuss why or why not using examples from your experiences.
Write about a family tradition or ritual you have. Why is it meaningful to you?
How can families best support teenagers? What is something you wish your family understood better?
Have you ever had a teacher that was an important mentor for you? If yes, describe how they supported you.
Describe an adult aside from your family who has been a positive influence on you. Explain how they have helped you.
Do teachers have lasting impacts on students? Describe one of your teachers who inspired you.
Write about a figure you admire but do not personally know, like a celebrity, author, or athlete. Explain why you admire them.
Describe a disagreement you witnessed between two people. How did each handle it? Who handled it better in your view?
Think of someone you had a disagreement with in the past. Looking back, how could you have handled it better?
Why is it important to admit when you are wrong? Describe a situation when you had to admit you were wrong. What was it like?
Write about a time you compromised with someone who had an opposing view from yours. How did you find common ground? What did you learn?
Do you find it easy or difficult to get along with people different from you? Explain using examples.
How can people move past stereotypes? Share a time when you or someone else overcame a stereotype.
Describe a situation where jealousy impacted a friendship or relationship. What damage did it cause? What did you learn?
Why is trust so essential in relationships? Describe the building or breaking of trust in one of your relationships.
What have you learned from both good and bad relationships? How have those lessons shaped how you interact with people?
How do you define respect? Write about a time when respect was present or absent from a relationship.
Describe a time when words were very hurtful or healing in a relationship. What impact did this have on you?
Think about a relationship that is difficult. How could you act to improve it?
Write about a stranger who did a kind deed for you or someone else. How did this small act of kindness make a difference?
Should people give second chances? Share a story from your own life on second chances.
For what reasons do conflicts happen between family or friends? Share a personal story.
How can people prevent or resolve conflicts between each other? Share a time when conflict was prevented or resolved positively.
Think about a relationship that recently improved. What specifically changed for the better? What can be learned?
What does it mean to truly listen to someone? Why is listening skills important in relationships? Give an example.
Choose one word to describe each member of your family and explain why you chose those words.
What are fun ways for families to spend quality time together? What does your family do and what do you enjoy most? Explain.
If you had the chance to give advice to a good friend right now, what would it be and why?
What goals can people set to become better friends or family members? What’s one goal you have set for yourself?
Who do you turn to when you have problems? Why have you chosen to talk to this person/people?
Should we forgive friends or family who lie to us? Share your thoughts and experiences with forgiveness.
Is it ever okay to keep secrets from friends or family? Explain why or why not.
What does “being responsible” with friendships and family relationships mean to you? Give examples.
Do you think rules should be different for friends than family? Explain your thoughts with examples.
Describe a time you felt support from your friends or family during a difficult situation.
For you, what is the difference between a close friend and an acquaintance? Give examples from your life.
Explain why friendships and family relationships should be valued and prioritized. Use personal examples.
Describe your extended family like grandparents, aunts/uncles, and cousins. How often do you see them? What do you enjoy about those relationships?
What traditions or rituals does your family have? Why are they meaningful?
Has a relative ever given you great advice? What was it and why was it helpful?
How can families best support pre-teens and teenagers? What do you wish your parents understood better?
What qualities make someone a good brother or sister? Do you think you have those qualities? Explain.
Describe your mom, dad, or another caregiver’s personality. What are 3 great qualities they have?
If you had magical abilities, what problem would you solve for a family member? Why?
What does “unconditional love” mean to you? Describe how your family shows love.
Should parents be friends with their kids? Explain your view using examples and reasons.
How should parents handle teens who break rules or make poor choices? Discuss their responsibilities.
Describe one of your favorite memories with your family. What happened that makes it extra special?
For what reasons do conflicts happen in families? Share a story from your own family.
How can families prevent or resolve conflicts positively? Share a time your family resolved a conflict well.
If you could add a new family rule, what would it be and why? Would others agree it’s needed? Explain.
What does being a good listener mean in your family? Provide a time when good listening skills were helpful at home.
Describe one issue your parents had to compromise on while raising you and your siblings. Explain their perspectives.
What is one clue that a family member needs extra support? Describe a time you or someone else needed support.
How can trust be built, lost, or repaired in families? Provide a personal example.
What does “respect” require inside families? Describe how your family shows respect or could improve.
Share an example of how your family cooperates and supports one another. Why is this important?
How can families balance personal interests with responsibilities to the family unit or household? Give examples.
Have religious or spiritual beliefs impacted your family positively? Explain how.
What does “forgiveness” require in families? Describe someone forgiving or being forgiven. What was the outcome?
Is venting anger appropriately important in families? Share an example from your household.
What is one problem you think many families struggle with? Explain ideas for how to address this issue.
What is a rule that has helped create order or safety in your home? Why was it needed?
How do parents model good behavior for their children without realizing it? Give examples you’ve observed.
Write about an annoyance or frustration you have experienced with a parent, guardian, or sibling. How have you worked through this issue?
Explain why keeping promises and commitments to family matters. Provide a related example.
What are fun ways for families to spend quality time together? What does your family do that brings you together?
Should families pray or perform spiritual rituals together? Explain why this can be meaningful or not needed.
Is getting advice from elders important? Share an example of getting advice from your parents or grandparents.
How can parents and kids better understand each other’s perspectives? Explain with a personal example.
Describe one house rule you did not understand as a younger kid. Now that you are older, does it make more sense? Explain.
How should parents educate kids about racism or discrimination? Discuss using personal examples or observations.
Do you make friends easily outside your family? Explain how your family gives you confidence or holds you back socially.
What quality about your parents inspires you to be like them? Explain using examples.
What is one thing you wish you and your siblings would stop fighting about? Why does this issue cause problems? What could improve it?
Describe one thing you argue about a lot with your sibling(s) and one thing you get along well doing together. Compare the two relationship dynamics.
Explain one of your family’s funny little habits or traditions outsiders would find interesting or strange. Where did it originate?
For what reasons are family relationships often complicated? Share an example from personal experience.
If a new kid was joining your family as an adopted sibling, what advice would you give him or her about fitting into your established household?
Should parents give kids advice about friendship or let them learn those skills independently? Discuss, backing your view with reasoning.
Describe an ethical dilemma or complex problem your family faced together. How did working through it strengthen relationships? What did family members learn about each other?
How can parents and kids respect each other’s privacy? Discuss setting boundaries while still providing guidance.
How might experiencing hard times like illness, grief, job loss, etc. bring a family closer together? Describe a difficulty that ultimately strengthened bonds between your family members rather than weakening them.
Even in difficult or complex family relationships, what makes the bond stronger than conflict? Explain why you think family ties still endure.
Even if family relationships are challenging or imperfect, why work to understand versus give up on each other? Provide evidence that trying leads in a positive direction.
When do you think parents should stop influencing adult children’s choices? Explain where the line should be drawn and why.
What have you learned from your parents’ strengths and weaknesses? How will you carry these lessons into your future as an adult?
What is your favorite app or website? Describe what you like about it.
Explain 3 responsible ways you use the internet and social media.
Should there be laws about how people your age use the internet? Why or why not?
Describe when it’s okay or not okay to share information or photos online.
Write about a time technology like GPS maps or the internet really helped you or someone you know.
Explain why spending too much time on devices can be unhealthy. Provide evidence.
Describe problems or distractions technology like cell phones can cause at school. Should policies be made to address this issue?
How is communicating online and via text different from talking face-to-face? Include pros and cons of each.
Stories are spreading about technology like virtual reality. Describe what you think virtual reality will be like someday based on current information.
Do you think technology brings people together more than it isolates them? Use reasons and evidence to back your opinion.
How does the internet make researching for school easier and harder at the same time? Explain with examples from experience.
Write about a time technology failed to work properly. What problems did it cause? What was the backup plan to address needs?
How have smart phones impacted how youth and adults spend leisure time? Explain pros and cons.
Describe an app that helps make people’s lives easier somehow. Explain its standout features.
What are ways social media connects people positively? Also discuss risks and how to use social media responsibly.
Should everyone have access to affordable home internet? Explain pros and cons of internet access becoming an essential utility provided via programs for low income families.
Discuss an innovative medical technology that improves healthcare. How exactly does it help doctors treat patients better?
Would receiving instruction through technology at home some days help students learn? Explain the possibilities and challenges you envision.
How have delivery drones and self-driving vehicles started changing the way people transport items? Describe what future possibilities exist to revolutionize transportation.
Explain how smartphones both waste and make the best use of people’s time. Provide evidence.
How do various communication methods impact trust and relationships between people both positively and negatively? Cite examples.
Should schools invest in providing laptops or tablets to each student for learning? Explain reasoning using pros and cons.
How does advancing technology like electric cars, solar power, etc. positively and negatively impact the environment now and in the foreseeable future?
How have smartphones changed people’s behaviors for better or worse? Provide evidence from real world observations.
Should youth be on social media? At what age is appropriate? Cite reasons.
How does the online world impact body image perceptions? Discuss using observations or evidence. Provide solutions.
Explain pros and cons you see regarding video games’ impacts on things like kids’ brains, creativity, social skills, and values.
Discuss positive and concerning impacts highly advanced robotics may have on jobs, the economy, how people treat each other in relationships, self-worth and identity when more labor becomes automated.
How can the internet and connected technology increase existing inequities? Offer ideas to responsibly address this concern.
Explain why developing future technology sustainably matters. Provide examples like electric car batteries, solar panels, etc.
Should tech CEOs or companies do more about issues like device addiction? What exactly should change?
How does immediate access to so much information impact how people view issues? Explain how quality versus quantity of data impacts judgments made. Cite real world examples like politics, news stories, etc.
Discuss ways technology harms or helps entertainment quality and enjoyment like movies, shows, music, etc. Compare changes you see over time as innovation progresses.
How does the internet impact the spread of truth versus lies? Describe how credibility should be evaluated.
What existing technology truly excites you? Explain what you find interesting and innovative about it.
Share what harm has occurred when people use technology irresponsibly. Also discuss fixes to address concerns you see being neglected.
Should schools better educate students about using technology safely and wisely? Explain importance.
Discuss technology’s influence during an election. Consider media, voter engagement, political messaging, etc. Are changes mostly beneficial or concerning in your view? Explain.
Explain why websites and apps should value user privacy and security. What should companies transparently share and responsibly protect?
Has social media made peers kinder or less sensitive to each other? Explain your observations and solutions.
How does always on the go device access impact family relationships? Provide positives and hints for avoiding pitfalls.
How does being constantly plugged in emotionally impact people over time based on your observations?
Discuss an existing technology that worries you. Explain problems it fuels. What regulations could responsibly and ethically decrease harm?
How does social media impact mental health? Support your perspectives with observations, credible research sources, and possible solutions.
Share why empathy remains important even as technology progresses. Provide real world evidence supporting your claim.
Discuss how smartphones both hurt and help people fully live “in the moment.” Use personal examples and suggestions.
Explain effective tactics for determining if online content and interactions are credible versus manipulative or false. Cite real world examples like clickbait ads. What tips do you recommend?
Describe pros and cons of computers grading students’ writing versus teacher feedback. Which approach is better in your opinion? Support perspectives with reasoning.
How does always on technology impact people’s sense of wonder, curiosity to learn new things the old fashioned way, and ability to have insight? Provide observations.
What existing or emerging technology do you believe is getting too little or too much hype? Explain reasoning using evidence and examples.
Describe a time when you felt really proud. Why did this accomplishment make you feel that way?
When was the last time you felt grateful? What happened that made you appreciate something or someone?
Write about a situation where your emotions felt out of control. How did you eventually handle them?
What calms you down when feeling nervous or worried? Explain step-by-step what helps you.
What does courage feel like to you? Describe a situation where facing your fears made you braver.
Share about a hardship or failure after which you felt resilience. What gave you strength during the tough time?
Describe a memory where curiosity led to a fun adventure, interesting discovery, or new understanding.
What sparks your sense of joy or happiness most? Paint a picture with words sharing what that feels like.
How can friends show kindness to classmates who feel left out or lonely at school?
What should someone do when social media interactions stir up feelings like anger or envy? Explain smart strategies.
How might words impact someone’s self-worth without the speaker realizing it? Provide examples.
How can overcoming a challenge build grit to handle future tough situations emotionally? Recall a time this happened for you or someone else.
What values guide your life choices? Where did those become important to you?
How can students show more empathy and compassion at school? Provide examples.
How do responsibilities like chores influence attitudes and maturity levels? Explain using personal experience.
What action should people take if they witness bullying? Offer solutions.
Should students notify an adult if a peer’s joke goes too far emotionally? Explain why or why not.
How do colors impact someone’s mood? Describe colors that tend to make you feel peaceful, energized, cheerful, etc. and why.
What makes someone feel understood? Describe mindsets and behaviors that convey acceptance of others’ feelings.
Is letting anger out always required? Why or why not? Offer healthy strategies for processing anger.
Which is more important – self-confidence or self-awareness? Support your choice with sound reasoning.
How can students respect differences in learning abilities, cultures, beliefs, backgrounds, etc.? Provide positive examples.
Describe mindsets kids should avoid like blaming others for disappointments vs. taking responsibility for choices.
What advice would you offer someone who feels marginalized for being different like nationality, disability, etc?
Is perfectionism about looks and grades harmful? Explain problems and smarter mindsets to feel good enough.
How can families show members they matter through simple gestures like greeting questions, eye contact, etc?
Should people give second chances? Share why this does or does not make sense in certain relationships or situations.
When has a pet’s companionship lifted your spirits? Paint an upbeat picture sharing that memory.
Recount a time laughter healed hurt feelings between family or friends. What humor techniques restore connection?
Coach someone from your own past on building self-esteem despite mean kid behavior. Offer concrete empowering strategies.
How can students incorporate more emotional intelligence on social media? Consider acts of exclusion, meanness, etc. and remedies.
Provide examples of tone and body language that convey trust and acceptance of someone venting feelings. Offer additional tips.
Share how music enriches your life emotionally. Pick a song that impacts your mood and explain why.
Should people give compliments just to be nice? Explain pros and cons of this using personal examples.
How can focusing on gratitude, blessings, self-care, etc. safeguard mental health when undergoing stress? Discuss research-backed techniques.
Recount a time you put yourself in someone else’s shoes during a tense interaction. How did trying to understand them positively transform empathy?
Coach a shy student on making a tough social situation better through small acts of kindness. Provide uplifting guidance.
Suggest healthy emotional habits students should build to handle future challenges like first jobs, college, adulthood, etc.
How can recess sports and games nurture social skills like teamwork, good sportsmanship, managing disappointment after losses, etc.? Use examples.
Should students speak up about wrong assumptions peers make regarding diverse groups? Politely clarify truth to dispel stereotypes. Use examples.
Pick an emotion like awe, angst, delight, despair, wrath, bliss, etc. and paint a vivid personal picture where you felt that way.
How can social media interactions demonstrate more emotional intelligence? Consider exclusion, meanness, etc. and remedies.
When is it acceptable to hide feelings to spare someone pain versus speak truth with compassion? Explain where lines should be drawn.
How can focusing on society’s past moral progress fuel present optimism? Discuss using civil rights victories, democracy wins, etc.
Recount a time swallowing pride strengthened a valuable relationship. What wisdom did you gain?
How do fair leaders appeal to citizens’ highest ideals rather than stoke dark emotions like blame, fear, etc.? Share real examples like Lincoln.
Paint an inspirational picture of society lifting up youth wired to live meaningfully versus seek fleeting thrills. What specifically makes their lives shine?
How can rules promote ethical, wise digital community behavior versus thoughtless harm? Consider implementing guidelines for more supportive interactions.
Paint an inspirational picture of people uniting across political divides to solve real problems jeopardizing emotional and physical health like addiction, poverty, human trafficking, etc.
Recount a time you transformed hurt into helpfulness or comfort for someone else grappling with hardship. What emotional tools and insights can uplift both giver and receiver?

Issues in School

Describe a challenging project and how you completed it successfully.
Explain why cheating on schoolwork is unethical. Have you dealt with a cheater? Discuss honestly.
Share about a teacher who inspired you to work hard. Traits? Qualities? Teaching style? How were they excellent?
Tell how you improved at something that was difficult at first like sports, music, math, etc. Hard work pays off!
Pick an ethical dilemma at school and explore solutions. Consider rights, rules, safety, fairness.
Discuss pros and cons of letter grades verses pass/fail evaluation systems. Which promotes actual learning?
Describe obstacles when group projects frustrate and solutions teachers could try instead.
How do pressures like getting into college impact student priorities? Reflect on whether the tradeoffs are worth it.
Discuss technology’s impact on school both positively and concerningly. Consider distraction, behavior, values, etc. Share ideas.
How can teachers and students unite when controversial real-world issues arise in class conversations? Explore respectful solutions.
What should teachers say and allow regarding politics, religion, activism etc.? Explain appropriate policies and ethical reasoning.
How can school sports best prevent injury? Consider health risks of head trauma, ACL tears, etc. Offer student perspective on rule changes, gear requirements, rest guidelines etc. needed to protect players.
Describe an ethical way you used tech for schoolwork versus a rule you’d add to curb misconduct. Consider cheating potential, theft, privacy invasions, harmful uses, etc. and consequences.
Discuss public school funding debates. Consider formulas, competing priorities, misperceptions, pros/cons of programs cut or supplemented by parent fundraising. Should policies shift? Why/why not?
How should schools handle mental health crises? Consider stress, anxiety, depression, trauma’s impacts. Discuss counseling, staff training needs etc. Destigmatize struggles!
How might school safety improve? Consider emergency protocols, building modifications, security roles, technology aids. Balance protection with warm environments.
What extracurricular activities matter most to you? Explore their life lessons like teamwork, resilience, commitment. Fund programs empowering students.
Discuss controversies around school uniforms and dress codes. Consider disciplinary fairness, cost factors, Pros? Cons? Alternatives?
How can students improve school spirit? Consider event turnout, community service participation etc. Share fun ideas!
Describe a great teacher. Traits? Qualities? Teaching Style? Why were they excellent? How did they inspire students?
Share a time good writing instruction made ah-ha connections for you. What teaching approach finally demystified skills? How does this help adults see school positively?
Discuss positive side effects when youth pitch service projects. Consider impacts on agency, purpose, skill-building.
How can peers positively stand up to bullying? Consider strategies matching context like severity, ages, power imbalances, supervision etc. Apply compassion.
What career discovery approach best serves students? Consider guest talks, job shadows, project relevance etc. How can exploration pair with current coursework?
Should cash incentivize good grades? Consider pros, cons and alternative motivations.
How might better nutrition improve school performance? Consider food quality, budget disconnects, health ripple effects.
What advice would you give struggling peers? Consider perspectives affecting motivation like learning differences, attention challenges, skill gaps, emotional blocks. Share supportive guidance.
What leadership lesson challenged you? Consider group projects, captain positions, committee roles. How can educators further grow student leadership?
Should middle schoolers use social media? Explain appropriate usage, privacy, ethics. Explore impacts face-to-face versus online communication, identity-building.
How do sports build character and community? Consider award/recognition systems also encouraging nonsport interests.
Share a time good teaching eased subject struggles. Consider learning style pairings, tutoring, visuals etc. What finally made content click? How can teachers apply such insights schoolwide?
How can students practice self-advocacy asking for help? Consider communication method pros/cons. Normalize speaking up!
How should schools handle grief support? Consider student perspectives on memorials, counseling, handlings of loss. What sensitivity helps healing?
Should cellphones be allowed in schools? Consider classroom complexities. How to responsibly integrate usage?
What career skills should schools teach? Consider financial literacy, interview tactics, job applications, workplace ethics alongside math, literature etc. Blend knowledge fields.
What homework policies best serve students and family lives? Consider hour limits, vacation blackout periods. How can schools support balance?
Should middle schoolers have recess? Consider mental health benefits balancing packed academic schedules.
How can dress codes embrace personal style without straying from professionalism? Consider flexibility for religious diversity.
What grading system most accurately reflects learning? Consider test reliance, extra credit, participation, skill gains versus deficits.
How young should career advising begin? Consider early goal-setting, age views of self/interests. What roles can teachers play?
Should community service become a graduation requirement? Consider purpose, logistics.
How can better school-parent communication occur? Consider platforms, frequency, accessibility etc. Building partnerships around the whole child matters!
Should teachers incorporate art forms into standard subjects? Consider benefits of music, visual art etc. blending into math, literature, science etc. Explore cross-disciplinary learning pros.
Pick a controversial real-world issue arising in class study. Outline respectful discussion ground rules enabling equitable idea sharing. Consider rule modification by grade.
Should schools screen students for mental health needs? Consider care connectors, warning signs role in prevention. Destigmatize support.
Should schools provide career counseling? If so, what issues should be addressed and what topics avoided? Consider student feelings discussing economic challenges.
Describe an imaginative teacher capturing learning in creative ways you enjoyed. What did their innovations teach in terms of thinking differently?
Should students evaluate teacher performance? Consider aspects like tone, control, care shown. Explore survey goals – accountability, improvement insights etc. Discuss complex power dynamics sensitively.
Is starting school days later better for health and learning? Consider research on adolescent sleep needs.
How can team and individual activities coexist in gym class Cooperatively rotating through stations enabling choices might help those loving and loathing competition. Discuss solutions valuing all skill preferences.

entertainment

What is your favorite movie and why?
What is your favorite song and why does it make you happy?
Who is your favorite singer or musical artist? Describe their music.
What is your favorite TV show? Describe the characters and plot.
If you could star in any TV show or movie, what would you choose? Why?
What is the funniest video you’ve seen? Describe what happens in it.
What is your favorite book? Describe the main character and plot.
Who is your favorite author? What do you like about the stories they write?
Describe your perfect day watching movies or TV shows. What would you watch all day?
What is your favorite smartphone or tablet app for having fun? How do you use it?
If you could attend any concert, who would you see perform live? Why?
Describe the most entertaining YouTube video you’ve seen lately.
What entertainer or celebrity would you most like to meet? What would you talk about?
Describe a time when you laughed really hard at something funny. What happened?
What is the funniest joke you’ve heard? Why did you find it so funny?
Pick three famous people you’d invite to a dinner party. Why did you choose them? What would you talk about?
Describe a time when you performed in front of an audience. How did it make you feel?
What games or activities entertain your family when you’re all together? Why do you enjoy them?
Imagine you could enter any fictional world from a book, TV show or movie. What would you choose and why?
What local attractions or amusement parks have you visited for fun day trips? Describe what you did there.
What teachers at your school make learning the most fun? Describe their teaching styles.
Describe your ideal birthday party for entertainment. What would you do? Who would you invite?
What is the best school play, concert or other performance you’ve seen? Describe it.
What do you like doing on weekends for fun?
What entertainer or celebrity do you think has the best job? Why?
Describe your favorite hobby. How did you get started doing it? What do you like about it?
What is your favorite holiday? What entertainment traditions does your family have for it?
What outdoor activities entertain you? Describe one.
If you opened your own entertainment business for kids your age, what would you offer?
When you want to relax and destress, what TV shows, music or other things do you turn to? Why are they relaxing?
How do reality talent competitions like American Idol or America’s Got Talent entertain you? Do you want to someday audition for one?
Describe your perfect entertaining day off from school. What fun would you have?
What were the best fireworks you ever saw? Describe the display.
Write a short, imaginary dialogue between you and your favorite entertainer or fictional character. What do you talk about?
What is the funniest joke you know by heart? Why can you remember this one?
Describe an entertaining family tradition or celebration your family enjoys. What happens each time? What do you like about it?
What is your favorite live event you’ve attended, like a concert, play, or sporting event? Describe it. What entertained you?
Have you ever entered a talent show or performed for an audience? Describe your act and the performance. How did you feel?
Pick three famous historical figures you’d invite to dinner and describe why you chose them and what you might talk about.
What is the most beautiful place that you have visited that made you happy? Describe what you saw and did there.
What music always makes you smile and dance? Why does it have that effect on you?
Watching movies at home or going to the movie theater – which do you prefer and why? Describe your perfect movie experience.
What were your favorite school subjects as a younger kid? What made learning fun then?
Have you ever met someone famous? Who was it? Describe the experience.
If you had the power to become a fictional character for just one day, who would you be and why? Describe some things you would do as that character.
You can have superpowers for just one whole day. What powers would you choose and how would you use them for entertainment or to help yourself and other people?
You just won front row concert tickets to see your favorite band perform live. Who is the band and how excited are you as you take your seat? Describe the incredible night.
Describe your dream vacation – where would you go, who would you take, and what fun things would you make sure to do when you get there? Make your planning committee happy!
What outdoor summer hobbies and activities do you most look forward to each year? Describe your favorites in vivid sensory detail so the reader feels like they are there with you.
What do you find entertaining that most other people probably don’t? Describe or demonstrate it and try to convince readers to give it a try!

On Hero/role Model

Who is your personal hero? Describe why you admire this person.
What qualities make someone a hero? Describe your idea of a hero.
Who in your family do you look up to the most? Explain why.
Describe a fictional character that you consider a hero. What do you admire about them?
If you could spend a day with any hero (real or fictional), who would you choose and why? Describe what you would do together.
Have you ever met someone you consider a hero? Tell about your experience.
What does being a role model mean to you? Describe someone who is a good role model.
Who is a positive role model in your community? What makes them a good role model?
Describe a time when you helped someone. Do you think that made you a role model or hero to them?
If you had a special power, how would you use it to be a hero in your town? Describe the ways you would help people.
What central traits do all heroes share? Explain some key qualities heroes have.
Explain why teachers can be everyday heroes. What makes a teacher a hero to students?
Describe a fictional superhero origin story for yourself. How did you get your powers and decide to become a hero?
Whose poster would you hang on your wall: a sports star, entertainer, historic leader, inventor, or someone else? Explain why you admire this person as a role model.
Who do you think is a hero in your family’s history? Write about one of your ancestors who inspires you.
When have you felt like a hero? Describe a time you helped someone in an important way.
What song best describes the qualities of a hero? Explain your choice.
What is the most heroic career , in your opinion? Describe why.
Have you read about an inspirational figure who overcame difficulties? Write about why their life story is heroic.
What fictional place would you want to live where you could train to become a hero? Describe your training.
Which of your friends shows heroic qualities? Share why you think they are hero material.
Describe a way you would like to help animals and become their hero.
What career would you like to have one day where you could be a hero? Explain the ways you could help people in that career.
Tell about a time you stood up for someone. Do you think that took strength or heroism?
Describe a character in book who is a good role model for teens. Explain why.
Who is your hero in sports? Why do you find them inspirational?
Have you ever written a story featuring yourself as the hero? Share some details.
What is the most courageous thing you have ever done? Why did it require courage?
Describe a way you would protect others from bullies if you could.
Explain why nurses, doctors and other medical professionals are everyday heroes.
Who is a “hometown hero” where you live and why are they admired?
What animal is your favorite hero from a movie? Explain why.
What is more important for being viewed as a hero – talent or good character? Discuss why you think so.
Describe someone at your school who you think behaves like a hero to others.
Tell about a time you exercised wisdom in a difficult situation. Does that make you feel heroic?
Design a new superhero. Describe their costume, superpowers, vehicle, mission and who they protect.
Parents often tell kids – “Be careful climbing too high or you might get hurt!” Do you think a hero would be careful or bold? Discuss why.
What 3 traits best describe a hero? Explain your choices.
How can ordinary people become heroes? Give some examples of ways everyday people have been heroic.
Pick two fictional mentors you have read about and would want to learn life lessons from about being a hero. Explain your choices.
Should people think of themselves as heroes or is it best to be humble? Discuss this idea.
What inspires you to want to make a positive difference in the world? How does this relate to being a hero?
How are teachers and students heroes for each other? Describe their heroism.
Tell about a historical hero who inspires you. Why do you look up to them?
How can music and movies motivate people to be heroes? Give examples of inspirational songs and films.
What will be the next great challenge that tomorrow’s heroes need to tackle and overcome? Speculate what that challenge might realistically be.
How can young people reveal their “inner hero” more? What would help them develop heroism?
How do images of heroes vary across different cultures? How might your idea of a hero change if you lived in another country?
Do you think there will ever be a time period that doesn’t need any heroes? Explain why you think so.
Imagine yourself at age 60 looking back – what do you hope young people say about your life that might inspire them or make them see you as a hero?

With over 300 thoughtful writing prompts for middle school students, the possibilities for sparking student engagement are endless. I’m energized imagining how students will dive into these age-appropriate topics and questions that resonate with their experiences and invite them to explore identity, relationships, responsibility, and more.

Whether it’s debating policies around technology in schools or opening up about a time they felt marginalized for being different, students will surely find prompts on this comprehensive list that interest them while also pushing their perspectives and building key literacy skills. Teachers can easily integrate these into warm-ups, journal entries, discussion springboards, and more activities.

Best of all, using so many prompts over a school year prevents repetition and boredom while allowing teachers to customize difficulty, vary formats to meet different learning styles, and scaffold writing skill development. With around 180 school days, weaving these 300 gems in daily exposes students to less redundant ideas so they sharpen a greater diversity of skills through unique responses rather than formulaic approaches. I foresee this prompting richer writing and deeper engagement that unlocks students’ potential. I can’t wait to incorporate these into my lesson planning and unit development this summer to start the year strong and set my young writers up for ongoing success! We have many more writing prompts on our site if you found these useful.

100 what-if scenarios writing prompts for students

About Richard

Richard Everywriter (pen name) has worked for literary magazines and literary websites for the last 25 years. He holds degrees in Writing, Journalism, Technology and Education. Richard has headed many writing workshops and courses, and he has taught writing and literature for the last 20 years.

In writing and publishing he has worked with independent, small, medium and large publishers for years connecting publishers to authors. He has also worked as a journalist and editor in both magazine, newspaper and trade publications as well as in the medical publishing industry. Follow him on Twitter, and check out our Submissions page .

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120 Engaging Middle School Writing Prompts

Getting middle school students to write can be particularly challenging. However, if you provide your students with a fun, interesting, and engaging writing prompt, you’ll find that their creativity and enthusiasm for writing can be easily sparked.

Below is a list of writing prompts for middle school students, including creative prompts, journal prompts, persuasive writing prompts, expository writing prompts, and story starter prompts. These are perfect for classroom exercises, homework assignments, or even just for personal exploration, helping students to develop their writing skills, express their ideas, and discover the joy of writing.

Creative Writing Prompts for Middle School Students

These creative writing prompts are cues or scenarios that inspire imaginative storytelling and personal expression. These prompts will encourage middle school students to explore new ideas, develop their narrative skills, and express themselves in unique and creative ways. Here’s a list of creative writing prompts for middle school students:

Journal Writing Prompts for Middle School Students

These journal writing prompts are thought-provoking questions or ideas that will encourage middle school students to reflect on their personal experiences, feelings, and beliefs. These prompts are designed to help students develop self-awareness, enhance their writing skills, and express themselves in a safe, private space. Here’s a list of journal writing prompts for middle school students:

Persuasive Writing Prompts for Middle School Students

These persuasive writing prompts are designed to inspire middle school students to develop arguments and persuade readers about a particular viewpoint or idea. These prompts will encourage critical thinking and research skills and enable students to present and justify their opinions clearly. Here’s a list of persuasive writing prompts for middle school students:

Expository Writing Prompts for Middle School Students

Narrative writing prompts for middle school students.

These narrative writing prompts encourage middle school students to tell a story, either about themselves, someone else, or a completely fictional scenario. This type of writing helps students develop their storytelling skills, enhances their creativity, and allows them to express their thoughts and experiences in an engaging way. Here’s a list of narrative writing prompts for middle school students:

Story Starters for Middle School Students

The New York Times

The learning network | 500 prompts for narrative and personal writing.

500 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/roomfordebate/2014/03/10/can-writing-on-a-college-entrance-exam-be-properly-assessed">Related Article</a>

Updated, March 2, 2017 | We published an updated version of this list, “650 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing,” as well as a companion piece, “401 Prompts for Argumentative Writing.”

Every school day since 2009 we’ve asked students a question based on an article in The New York Times. Now, five years later, we’ve collected 500 of them that invite narrative and personal writing and pulled them all together in one place (available here as a PDF ).

The categorized list below touches on everything from sports to travel, education, gender roles, video games, fashion, family, pop culture, social media and more, and, like all our Student Opinion questions , each links to a related Times article and includes a series of follow-up questions. What’s more, all these questions are still open for comment by any student 13 or older.

So dive into this admittedly overwhelming list and pick the questions that most inspire you to tell an interesting story, describe a memorable event, observe the details in your world, imagine a possibility, or reflect on who you are and what you believe.

Childhood Memories

<a href="//well.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/03/11/a-firm-grasp-on-comfort/">Related Article</a><a href="//www.nytimes.com/2013/03/10/opinion/sunday/living-with-less-a-lot-less.html"><br /></a>

What Was Your Most Precious Childhood Possession?
What Were Your Favorite Childhood Shows and Characters?
What Were Your Favorite Picture Books When You Were Little?
What Things Did You Create When You Were a Child?
What Places Do You Remember Fondly From Childhood?
Have You Ever Felt Embarrassed by Things You Used to Like?
Do You Wish You Could Return to Moments From Your Past?
Was There a Toy You Wanted as a Child but Never Got?
What Objects Tell the Story of Your Life?
What Are Your Best Sleepover Memories?
What’s the Best Gift You’ve Ever Given or Received?
What’s the Most Memorable Thing You Ever Got in the Mail?
What Nicknames Have You Ever Gotten or Given?

Coming of Age

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2014/03/01/opinion/sunday/what-you-learn-in-your-40s.html">Related Article</a>

What Have You Learned in Your Teens?
What Personal Achievements Make You Proud?
What Are Some Recent Moments of Happiness in Your Life?
What Are You Grateful For?
What Rites of Passage Have You Participated In?
What Advice Would You Give Younger Kids About Middle or High School?
What Can Older People Learn From Your Generation?
What Do Older Generations Misunderstand About Yours?

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2013/05/12/opinion/sunday/too-much-helicopter-parenting.html">Related Article</a>

Who Is Your Family?
What Have You and Your Family Accomplished Together?
What Events Have Brought You Closer to Your Family?
What’s Your Role in Your Family?
Have You Ever Changed a Family Member’s Mind?
How Do You Define ‘Family’?
What Are Your Family Stories of Sacrifice?
What Possessions Does Your Family Treasure?
What Hobbies Have Been Passed Down in Your Family?
How Much Do You Know About Your Family’s History?
Did Your Parents Have a Life Before They Had Kids?
How Close Are You to Your Parents?
How Are You and Your Parents Alike and Different?
Do Your Parents Support Your Learning?
What Have Your Parents Taught You About Money?
Do You Expect Your Parents to Give You Money?
How Permissive Are Your Parents?
Do You Have Helicopter Parents?
How Do Your Parents Teach You to Behave?
How Do You Make Parenting Difficult for Your Parents?
If You Drink or Use Drugs, Do Your Parents Know?
Do You Talk About Report Cards With Your Parents?
Would You Mind if Your Parents Blogged About You?
How Well Do You Get Along With Your Siblings?
How Well Do You Know Your Pet?
What Role Do Pets Play in Your Family?
What Is Your Racial and Ethnic Identity?
Have You Ever Tried to Hide Your Racial or Ethnic Identity?
How Do You Feel About Your Last Name?
What’s the Story Behind Your Name?
What Are Your Favorite Names?
How Have You Paid Tribute to Loved Ones?

Community and Home

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2013/10/20/opinion/sunday/here-comes-the-neighborhood.html">Related Article</a><a href="//learning.blogs.nytimes.com/category/lesson-plans/"></a>

Would You Most Want to Live in a City, a Suburb or the Country?
How Much Does Your Neighborhood Define Who You Are?
What’s Special About Your Hometown?
What Would You Name Your Neighborhood?
Who Is the ‘Mayor’ of Your School or Neighborhood?
Who Are the ‘Characters’ That Make Your Town Interesting?
What Would a TV Show About Your Town Spoof?
What ‘Urban Legends’ Are There About Places in Your Area?
What Local Problems Do You Think Your Mayor Should Try to Solve?
Do You Know Your Way Around Your City or Town?
Have You Ever Interacted With the Police?
How Often Do You Interact With People of Another Race or Ethnicity?
Who Would Be the Ideal Celebrity Neighbor?
What Is Your Favorite Place?
How Much Time Do You Spend in Nature?
What Small Things Have You Seen and Taken Note Of Today?
What Would Your Dream Home Be Like?
What is Your Favorite Place in Your House?
How Important Is Keeping a Clean House?
Is Your Bedroom a Nightmare?
Do You Plan on Saving Any of Your Belongings for the Future?
With Your Home in Danger, What Would You Try to Save?
What Would You Put in Your Emergency ‘Go-Bag’?
Have You Ever Lost (or Found) Something Valuable?

Personality

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2009/08/29/business/29shortcuts.html">Related Article</a>

What Is Your Personal Credo?
What Motivates You?
What Makes You Happy?
What Are You Good At?
How Much Self-Control Do You Have?
How Good Are You at Waiting for What You Really Want?
What Role Does Procrastination Play in Your Life?
When in Your Life Have You Been a Leader?
How Well Do You Perform Under Pressure?
How Well Do You Take Criticism?
Are You Hard or Easy on Yourself?
How Full Is Your Glass?
Do You Have a Hard Time Making Decisions?
How Good Are You at Time Management?
How Productive and Organized Are You?
How Would Your Life Be Different if You Had Better Listening Skills?
How Competitive Are You?
Do You Perform Better When You’re Competing or When You’re Collaborating?
Do You Take More Risks When You Are Around Your Friends?
Do You Unknowingly Submit to Peer Pressure?
How Much of a Daredevil Are You?
What Pranks, Jokes, Hoaxes or Tricks Have You Ever Fallen For or Perpetrated?
How Do You React When Provoked?
How Often Do You Cry?
Do You Think You’re Brave?
What Are You Afraid Of?
What Are Your Fears and Phobias?
What Are Your Personal Superstitions?
Do You Like Being Alone?
How Impulsive Are You?
Are You a Novelty-Seeker?
What Annoys You?
Do You Apologize Too Much?
Do You Have Good Manners?
Are You a Saver or a Tosser?
Are You More Introvert or Extrovert?
Are You Popular, Quirky or Conformist?
Are You a Nerd or a Geek?
What Would Your Personal Mascot Be?
What Assumptions Do People Make About You?

Overcoming Adversity

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2014/03/23/opinion/sunday/what-id-say-to-my-fat-son.html">Related Article</a>

What Challenges Have You Overcome?
What Do You Do When You Encounter Obstacles to Success?
What Are Your Secret Survival Strategies?
How Do You Find Peace in Your Life?
How Have You Handled Being the ‘New Kid’?
Do You Ever Feel Overlooked and Underappreciated?
How Stressed Are You?
How Do You Relieve Stress?
Does Stress Affect Your Ability to Make Good Decisions?
What Challenges Have You Set for Yourself?
How Often Do You Leave Your ‘Comfort Zone’?
What Did You Once Hate but Now Like?
Does Your Life Leave You Enough Time to Relax?
Do You Set Rules for Yourself About How You Use Your Time?
Is ‘Doing Nothing’ a Good Use of Your Time?
What’s Cluttering Up Your Life?
What Work Went Into Reaching Your Most Difficult Goals?
When Have You Ever Failed at Something? What Happened as a Result?
When Have You Ever Succeeded When You Thought You Might Fail?
What Life Lessons Has Adversity Taught You?
What’s the Most Challenging Assignment You’ve Ever Had?
What Kind of Feedback Helps You Improve?
Is Trying Too Hard to Be Happy Making You Sad?
Do Adults Who Are ‘Only Trying to Help’ Sometimes Make Things Worse?
What Are Five Everyday Problems That Bother You, and What Can You Do About Them?

Gender and Sexuality

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2013/10/01/nyregion/city-unveils-a-campaign-to-improve-girls-self-esteem.html">Related Article</a><a href="//learning.blogs.nytimes.com/tag/tyell/"></a>

How Do Male and Female Roles Differ in Your Family?
Do Parents Have Different Hopes and Standards for Their Sons Than for Their Daughters?
Is There Too Much Pressure on Girls to Have ‘Perfect’ Bodies?
How Much Pressure Do Boys Face to Have the Perfect Body?
How Did You Learn About Sex?
How Should Parents Address Internet Pornography?
What Experiences Have You Had With Gender Bias in School?
What Have Been Your Experiences With Catcalling or Other Kinds of Street Harassment?
Do You Know Boys Who Regard Girls as ‘Prey’?
Do You Consider Yourself a Feminist?

Morality and Religion

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2014/10/19/opinion/sunday/does-everything-happen-for-a-reason.html">Related Article </a>

How Do You Help?
What Ethical Dilemmas Have You Faced?
Would You Help an Injured Stranger?
When Is the Last Time You Did Something Nice for a Stranger?
Have You Ever ‘Paid It Forward’?
How Much Do You Gossip?
How Comfortable Are You With Lying?
Have You Ever Taken Something You Weren’t Supposed To?
What Could You Live Without?
Do You Ever Feel Guilty About What, or How Much, You Throw Away?
Do You Ever Eavesdrop?
How Important Is Your Spiritual Life?
Do You Believe That Everything Happens for a Reason?
Can You Be Good Without God?
Are You Less Religious Than Your Parents?
Can You Pass a Basic Religion Test?
What Can You Learn From Other Religions?

Role Models

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2014/10/12/jobs/drowning-in-dishes-but-finding-a-home.html">Related Article</a>

Who Is Your Role Model?
Who Are Your Heroes?
Who Inspires You?
What’s the Best Advice You’ve Gotten?
Who Outside Your Family Has Made a Difference in Your Life?
If You Had Your Own Talk Show, Whom Would You Want to Interview?
To Whom, or What, Would You Like to Write a Thank-You Note?
What Leader Would You Invite to Speak at Your School?
What Six People, Living or Dead, Would You Invite to Dinner?

Technology and Video Games

Are You Distracted by Technology?
Do You Always Have Your Phone or Tablet at Your Side?
What Tech Tools Play the Biggest Role in Your Life?
What New Technologies or Tech Toys Are You Most Excited About?
To What Piece of Technology Would You Write a ‘Love Letter’?
Does Your Digital Life Have Side Effects?
Do Apps Help You or Just Waste Your Time?
Do You Spend Too Much Time on Smart Phones Playing ‘Stupid Games’?
When Do You Choose Making a Phone Call Over Sending a Text?
Do You Know How to Code? Would You Like to Learn?
Whom Would You Share Your Passwords With?
What Are Your Favorite Video Games?
What Have You Learned Playing Video Games?
Do You Play Violent Video Games?
When Should You Feel Guilty for Killing Zombies?
Who Are Your Opponents in Online Gaming?
Do You Like Watching Other People Play Video Games?

The Internet

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/interactive/2013/04/23/science/super-awesome-sylvia-video-grid.html#index">Related Article</a>

How Careful Are You Online?
Do You Ever Seek Advice on the Internet?
How Do You Know if What You Read Online Is True?
How Much Do You Trust Online Reviews?
How Do You Use Wikipedia?
What Are Your Favorite Internet Spoofs?
What Are Your Favorite Viral Videos?
What Would You Teach the World in an Online Video?
What Are Your Experiences With Internet-Based Urban Legends?
What Story Does Your Personal Data Tell?
Do You Worry About the Lack of Anonymity in the Digital Age?
Do You Wish You Had More Privacy Online?
California Notice
Have You Ever Been Scammed?

Social Media

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2013/01/09/booming/in-your-face-book-heres-the-party-you-werent-invited-to.html">Related Article<br /></a>

How Do You Use Facebook?
What Is Your Facebook Persona?
What Memorable Experiences Have You Had on Facebook?
Does Facebook Ever Make You Feel Bad?
Would You Consider Deleting Your Facebook Account?
Do You Have ‘Instagram Envy’?
Do You Use Twitter?
Why Do You Share Photos?
How Do You Archive Your Life?
Have You Ever Posted, Emailed or Texted Something You Wish You Could Take Back?
Have You Ever Sent an Odd Message Because of Auto-Correct?
Would You Want Your Photo or Video to Go Viral?
Do You Worry Colleges or Employers Might Read Your Social Media Posts Someday?

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2014/01/08/nyregion/seeking-clues-to-gangs-and-crime-detectives-monitor-internet-rap-videos.html">Related Article</a>

What Are You Listening To?
Who in Your Life Introduces You to New Music?
How Much Is Your Taste in Music Based on What Your Friends Like?
What Music Inspires You?
How Closely Do You Listen to Lyrics?
Which Pop Music Stars Fascinate You?
Who Is Your Favorite Pop Diva?
What’s Your Karaoke Song?
What Song/Artist Pairings Would You Like to Hear?

Movies, Theater and Television

<a href="//www.nytimes.com/2014/04/27/movies/from-internet-chat-to-related-projects-mean-girls-endures.html">Related Article</a>

What Were the Best Movies You Saw in the Past Year?
What Movies Do You Watch, or Reference, Over and Over?
What Movies, Shows or Books Do You Wish Had Sequels, Spinoffs or New Episodes?
Do You Like Horror Movies?
Who Are Your Favorite Movie Stars?
Would You Pay Extra for a 3-D Movie?
What Is Your Favorite Comedy?
What Are the Best Live Theatrical Performances You’ve Ever Seen?
Have You Ever Stumbled Upon a Cool Public Performance?
What Role Does Television Play in Your Life and the Life of Your Family?
What Television Shows Have Mattered to You?
Do Your Television Viewing Habits Include ‘Binge-Watching’?
How Often Do You Watch a Television Show When It Originally Airs?
What Old Television Shows Would You Bring Back?
Why Do We Like Reality Shows So Much?
What Ideas Do You Have for a Reality Show?
What Are Your Favorite Commercials?
How Much Are You Influenced by Advertising?

Reading, Writing and Fine Arts

Read Any Good Books Lately?
Do You Read for Pleasure?
What Are Your Favorite Books and Authors?
What Are the Best Things You’ve Read, Watched, Heard or Played This Year?
What Are Your Favorite Young Adult Novels?
What’s on Your Summer Reading List?
What Memorable Poetry Have You Ever Read or Heard?
What Are Your Favorite Cartoons?
What Magazines Do You Read, and How Do You Read Them?
Do You Enjoy Reading Tabloid Gossip?
When Have You Seen Yourself and Your Life Reflected in a Book or Other Media?
Do You Prefer Your Children’s Book Characters Obedient or Contrary?
Do You Read E-Books?
Would You Trade Your Paper Books for Digital Versions?
To What Writer Would You Award a Prize?
Why Do You Write?
Do You Keep a Diary or Journal?
Do You Have a Blog?
Do You Want to Write a Book?
When Do You Write by Hand?
Do You Write in Cursive?
Do You Write in Your Books?
What ‘Mundane Moments’ From Your Life Might Make Great Essay Material?
What’s the Coolest Thing You’ve Ever Seen in a Museum?
What Are the Most Memorable Works of Visual Art You Have Seen?
What Are Your Favorite Works of Art?

Language and Speech

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What Are Your Favorite and Least Favorite Words?
What Words or Phrases Do You Think Are Overused?
How Much Slang Do You Use? What Are Your Favorite (Printable) Words?
How Much Do You Curse? Why?
Why Do So Many People Say ‘Like’ and ‘Totally’ All the Time?
Do You Sometimes ‘Hide’ Behind Irony?
How Good Is Your Grammar?
What New Emoticons Does the World Need?
Are You Fluent in Vocal Fry, Creaky Voice or Uptalk?
How Much Information Is ‘Too Much Information’?
When Did You Last Have a Great Conversation?
Do You Speak a Second, or Third, Language?
When Do You Remember Learning a New Word?

School and Teachers

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Do You Like School?
What Are You Really Learning at School?
What Are You Looking Forward To, or Dreading, This School Year?
Would You Want to Be Home-Schooled?
Would You Like to Take a Class Online?
Would You Rather Attend a Public or a Private High School?
How Would You Grade Your School?
What Can Other Schools Learn — and Copy — From Your School?
Is Your School Day Too Short?
What Do You Hope to Get Out of High School?
Do You Have Too Much Homework?
Does Your Homework Help You Learn?
What Is Your Best Subject?
What Memorable Experiences Have You Had in Learning Science or Math?
Are You Afraid of Math?
Do We Need a New Way to Teach Math?
What Are the Best Ways to Learn About History?
How Would You Do on a Civics Test?
How Important Is Arts Education?
What Is Your Most Memorable Writing Assignment?
What Would You Like to Have Memorized?
Does Your School Value Students’ Digital Skills?
What Was Your Favorite Field Trip?
Do You Participate in Class?
What Are Your Best Tips for Studying?
Do You Use Study Guides?
Is Everything You’ve Been Taught About Study Habits Wrong?
How Well Do You Think Standardized Tests Measure Your Abilities?
Do You Have a Tutor?
Are Your Grades Inflated?
When Has a Teacher Inspired You?
What Teacher Do You Appreciate?
What Teacher Would You Like to Thank?
What Do You Wish Your Teachers Knew About You?
Do Your Test Scores Reflect How Good Your Teachers Are?
Do Your Teachers Use Technology Well?

School Social Environment

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What Role Do School Clubs and Teams Play in Your Life?
Who Has the Power in School Social Life?
How Big a Problem Is Bullying or Cyberbullying in Your School or Community?
Does Your School Seem Integrated?
What’s the Racial Makeup of Your School?
Do You Ever ‘Mix It Up’ and Socialize With Different People at School?
Can Students at Your School Talk Openly About Their Mental Health Issues?
Is Your School a ‘Party School’?
How Common Is Drug Use in Your School?
Do You Know People Who Cheat on High-Stakes Tests?
How Does Your School Deal With Students Who Misbehave?
How Much Does Your Life in School Intersect With Your Life Outside School?
Would You Ever Go Through Hazing to Be Part of a Group?

Senior Year, College and Applications

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Where Do You Want to Go to College?
What Are Your Sources for Information About Colleges and Universities?
Is College Overrated?
How Much Does the SAT or ACT Matter in Your Life?
What Personal Essay Topic Would You Assign to College Applicants?
What Qualities Would You Look For in a College Roommate?
What Would You Do With a Gap Year?
What Makes a Graduation Ceremony Memorable?
How Do You Feel About Proms?

Work and Careers

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What Are Your Longtime Interests or Passions?
Do You Have a Life Calling?
What Do You Want to Do With Your Life?
Do You Think You Will Have a Career That You Love?
What Investment Are You Willing to Make to Get Your Dream Job?
Would You Consider a Nontraditional Occupation?
Would You Want to Be a Teacher?
What Hidden Talents Might You Have?
What Do You Hope to Be Doing the Year After You Graduate From College?
Would You Rather Work From Home or in an Office?
What Career or Technical Classes Do You Wish Your School Offered?
What ‘Back-to-the-Land’ Skills Do You Have, or Wish You Had?
What Have You Made Yourself?
What Would You Create if You Had Funding?
How Did You Start Doing Something You Love?
Did You Ever Take a Break From Doing Something You Love?
What Have You Done to Earn Money?
Do You Have a Job?
Would You Quit if Your Values Did Not Match Your Employer’s?
What Are Your Attitudes Toward Money?
Can Money Buy You Happiness?
Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years?
What Do You Want to Be Doing When You’re 80?
Do You Want to Live to 100?
What Do You Want Your Obituary to Say?

Dating and Friendship

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Have You Ever Been in Love?
What Are the Most Meaningful Relationships in Your Life?
What Advice Would You Give to Somebody Who Just Started Dating?
What Are the Basic ‘Rules’ for Handling Breakups?
What Are Your Beliefs About Marriage?
Are You Allowed to Date?
Is Dating a Thing of the Past?
Do You Have a Best Friend?
How Do You Feel About Introducing Friends from Different Parts of Your Life?
How Should You Handle the End of a Friendship?
How Often Do You Have ‘Deep Discussions’?

Sports, Exercise and Games

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Do You Like to Exercise?
How Has Exercise Changed Your Health, Your Body or Your Life?
Why Do You Play Sports?
What Is the Most Memorable Sporting Event You’ve Ever Watched or Played In?
What’s the Most Impressive Sports Moment You’ve Seen?
When Has a Sports Team Most Disappointed You?
What Sports Teams Do You Root For?
Does Being a Fan Help Define Who You Are?
How Far Would You Go to Express Loyalty to Your Favorite Teams?
What Fan Memorabilia Would You Pay Big Bucks For?
What Rules Would You Like to See Changed in Your Favorite Sports?
What Game Would You Like to Redesign?
What Are Your Favorite Games?

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Where in the World Would You Travel if You Could?
What Is Your Fantasy Vacation?
What Would Your Fantasy Road Trip Be Like?
What Crazy Adventure Would You Want to Take?
How Has Travel Affected You?
What Famous Landmarks Have You Visited?
What’s the Coolest Thing You’ve Ever Seen in Nature?
What Are the Best Souvenirs You’ve Ever Collected While Traveling?
Would You Like to Live in Another Country?
Would You Want to Be a Space Tourist?

Looks, Fashion and Health

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What Does Your Hairstyle Say About You?
How Far Would You Go for Fashion?
What Are the Hot Fashion Trends at Your School Right Now?
Do You Have a Signature Clothing Item?
Has Anyone Ever Said That You Look Like Someone Famous?
Would You Ever Consider Getting a Tattoo?
What Are Your Opinions on Cosmetic Surgery?
Do Photoshopped Images Make You Feel Bad About Your Own Looks?
What Are Your Sleep Habits?
How Much of a Priority Do You Make Sleep?
Do You Get Enough Sleep?
What Health Tips Have Worked for You?

Shopping and Driving

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What’s Your Favorite Store? Why?
To What Company Would You Write a Letter of Complaint or Admiration?
To What Business Would You Like to Give Advice?
How Would You Make Over Your Mall?
Do You Shop at Locally Owned Businesses?
What Are the Best Things You’ve Acquired Secondhand?
How Important Is It to Have a Driver’s License?
Are You a Good Driver?

Food and Eating

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What Are the Most Memorable Meals You’ve Ever Had?
What’s Your Favorite Holiday Food Memory?
What’s Your Comfort Food?
What Are Your Favorite Junk Foods?
What Food Would You Like to Judge in a Taste-Off?
Do You Prefer Your Tacos ‘Authentic’ or ‘Appropriated’?
Do You Pay Attention to Nutrition Labels on Food?
How Concerned Are You About Where Your Food Comes From?
Are Your Eating Habits Healthy?
What Are Your ‘Food Rules’?
Do You Eat Too Quickly?
What Do You Eat During the School Day?
Do You Eat Cafeteria Food?
How Much Food Does Your Family Waste?
What Messages About Food and Eating Have You Learned From Your Family?
What’s Your Favorite Restaurant?
What Restaurant Would You Most Like to Review?
Do You Cook?
What Would You Most Like to Learn to Cook or Bake?

Holidays, Seasons, Weather and Weekends

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How Can People Make the Most of Long Holiday Weekends?
What’s Your Sunday Routine?
What’s on Your Fall Fashion Shopping List?
Will You Be Wearing a Halloween Costume This Year?
Do You Like Scary Movies and Books?
Do You Believe in Ghosts?
What Are Your Thanksgiving Traditions?
What Are Your Tips for Enjoying the Holiday Season?
How Will You Spend the Holiday Break?
Do You Make New Year’s Resolutions?
How Do You Fight the Winter Blues?
What Are Your Experiences With Severe Weather?
How Do You Feel About Valentine’s Day?
How Do You Celebrate Spring?
What Would Your Fantasy Spring Break Be Like?
How Careful Are You in the Sun?
What Are You Looking Forward to This Summer?
What Would Your Ideal Summer Camp Be Like?
What Are Your Favorite Summer Hangouts?
What’s Your Favorite Summer Food?
What Is Your Favorite Summer Movie?
Do You Have a Summer Job?
Do You Choose Summer Activities to Look Good on Applications?
What Are the Best Things You Did This Summer?
How Do You Prepare to Go Back to School?

Beliefs, Politics and Current Events

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How Would You Like to Help Our World?
What Cause Would Get You Into the Streets?
What Would You Risk Your Life For?
When Have You Spoken Out About Something You Felt Had to Change?
What Would You Invent to Make the World a Better Place?
How Do You Feel About Zoos?
What Is Your Relationship With Guns?
Do You Trust Your Government?
Do You Know Your First Amendment Rights?
Do You Worry About Terrorism?
Do You Believe in Intelligent Alien Life?
Given Unlimited Resources, What Scientific or Medical Problem Would You Investigate?
What Would You Do if You Were President?
Would You Vote This Year if You Could?
Do You Consider Yourself a Republican, Democrat or Independent?
What Event in the Past Do You Wish You Could Have Witnessed?
What Are the Most Important Changes, in Your Life and in the World, in the Last Decade?
What Do You Remember About Sept. 11, 2001?
What News Stories Are You Following?
How Do You Get Your News?
Why Should We Care About Events in Other Parts of the World?
What Questions Do You Have About How the World Works?
What Big Questions Do You Have?

If Only…

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What Would You Do if You Won the Lottery?
What Superpower Do You Wish You Had?
What Era Do You Wish You Had Lived In?
Would You Want to Be a Tween or Teen Star?
Would You Want to Grow Up in the Public Eye?
What Kind of Robot Would You Want?
What Would You Outsource if You Could?
What Would You Like to Learn on Your Own?
What Would You Wait in Line For?

This resource may be used to address the academic standards listed below.

Common Core E.L.A. Anchor Standards

3 Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details and well-structured event sequences.

Comments are no longer being accepted.

This is such a fabulous resource for inspiration! Thank you so much for putting this list together. I’ll refer to it often and share it with my readers on my poetry and writing blog.

These are great writing prompts. These remind me of the questions on StoryShelter.com. It’s nice to write there and have all your personal stories in one place where you can share them with friends or post anonymously. Anyone who does narrative or personal writing will find it really useful.

For example, this is how a bunch of people answered the question: “What would you do if you won the lottery?” https://www.storyshelter.com/question/what-if-i-won-the-lottery

Cool, right?

Wonderful list! The topics are thought-provoking and exciting to write. I can go writing on and on, on these topics.

How much do you know about your family history?

I know a little bit about my family history. My grandma talks about our religion sometimes, not every day. So I get to hear some facts about my religion. For example what we do on New Year’s or what happened when I wasn’t born yet. My family history is very interesting.

My mom she is Cambodian and my dad is Thai so I’m mixed Asian. Everybody say that I mostly look like my dad than my mom, and that’s interesting to me.

My dad side of the family, my great great grandma, grandpa and aunts and uncles. They are living in Thailand. I want to go to Thailand really bad. My mom side of the family, my great great grandpa, grandma and my grandma siblings. They are living in Cambodia. My grandma took some pictures in Asia. It looks so different than the United States of America.

So first off, my dad he was born in Thailand and my mom I think she was born in Cambodia. She said that she didn’t went to Cambodia so I really don’t know. So my family (parents, grandparents, aunts and uncle immigrated to the United States of America and became citizens. That time they lived in Stockton, California. I could of live there still. But my dad he went to school in New Hampshire and got a job here and the job over here paid a lot more money than California. So Then my mom side of the family came with my parents, and my dad side of the family stayed in California that was in the 1990s when they moved to New Hampshire. Then they separated, so now we don’t live together anymore.

Now my aunt lives in Massachusetts and my other aunt lives in Rhode Island. So when my parents lived in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, I wasn’t born yet. But I wish that we still lived in California. So we

My life is interesting to me. I have families in Cambodia and Thailand, and I haven’t met them yet. Also the things we do on New Year’s and other occasions. So that’s what I know about my family history.

Very interesting

OMG!! Where have you been all my life I am very excited about this!!

I wish I was more of a journaler. These are some fantastic prompts for writing personal stories. With 500 listed here, there’s no way you wouldn’t find an inspiring prompt.

I’m more of a fiction writer, and I’ve chosen to write prompts that help fiction writers expand their imagination.

What's Next

Bell Ringers

Middle school narrative essays and middle school writing conferences.

Five years ago, I had just started my first year of teaching 7th and 8th grade English Language Arts. We were working on writing middle school narrative essays and I did a blog post on how I taught it here .

I have grown SO much since that time. My students definitely learned a lot, but especially because I teach the same kids in 8th grade as I do in 7th, I knew that I had to really up what we are doing this year.

Disclaimer: I don’t teach “personal narratives.” I know. Writing gods across the universe are gasping in shock, but it’s a decision I made a couple years ago, kind of on a whim, but has been the best thing I have ever done.

NARRATIVE ESSAY PLOT DIAGRAMS FOR FREAK THE MIGHTY, GHOST, AND THE OUTSIDERS

WHY NOT PERSONAL NARRATIVES?

I just feel like kids have written 8-10 personal narratives by the time they get to me, and we are all over it. Plus, sometimes it’s REALLY hard for kids to write something meaningful about the first time they were stung by a bee… or whatever small moment I spend hours and days trying to help them come up with.

I found that when students have to use narrative elements to become a character from a narrative mentor text, they don’t spend days trying to figure out what to write. They truly use narrative craft because they have a complete and well done mentor text to constantly reference. Plus they’re final essay and their writing are just SO FREAKING GOOD.

My first year, we read Freak the Mighty in both seventh and eighth grade. Students had to write from Freak’s or from Killer Kane’s point of view. They were some of the best essay I’ve ever read.

I used my Realistic Fiction and Literature Terms/Devices unit, along with Freak the Mighty.

I use the novels to teach literary elements and they use that knowledge to write their middle school narrative essays. We also focus a lot on thinking critically about the texts we read.

middle school freak the mighty novel study

CHANGING IT UP EACH YEAR

My first year teaching middle school ELA, I taught a lot of the same lessons to both seventh and eight grade. It was honestly perfect as I learned two new grade levels, but that meant I changed things up a lot in the following years.

I still did the same thing with my 7th graders this year, and we are just about done writing our rough drafts.

For 8th grade, I had the same students, so I decided we would read The Outsiders . Even more so, instead of them just having to write from the point of view of a character, I actually wanted them to have to do some of that hard thinking that they might be missing out on by not doing a personal narrative.

With this in mind, my 8th graders had to continue Ponyboy’s narrative. Their middle school narrative essays still had to have a plot and climax that was completely developed. Essentially, I was asking them to write another chapter of the book.

It was REALLY HARD for all of us, especially in the planning stages, but I scaffolded and modeled A LOT. Now we’re on rough drafts too, and they’re seriously amazing.

I have since also added a sixth grade example for everything. We used Jason Reynolds novel, Ghost for their mentor text. Again, we used my realistic fiction unit and their novel study units.

COMPLETE NARRATIVE WRITING UNIT

Each year, I changed how we did our narrative writing unit, and I continued to update my examples and lesson plans each year.

I have since compiled all my middle school narrative writing lesson into one complete unit that you can get here.

Since I do teach middle school narrative essays differently than a lot of teachers, I thought I would give you a better overview of what the complete units looks like, plus show you some freebies you can get to use today!

middle school complete narrative unit cover with 3 weeks of lessons

NARRATIVE WRITING UNIT OVERVIEW

Session 1: Elements of Narrative Essays Part one
Session 2: Elements of Narrative Essays Part Two
Session 3: Narrative Plot Diagrams
Session 4: Using Sensory Details
Session 5: Using Dialogue Correctly
Session 6: Using Dialogue Effectively
Session 7: Ways to Start a Narrative, Writing Rough Drafts, Writing Conferences
Session 8: Using Narrative Transitions, Writing Rough Drafts, Writing Conferences
Session 9: Pacing Narrative Writing, Writing Rough Drafts, Writing Conferences
Session 10: Ways to End a Narrative, Writing Rough Drafts, Writing Conferences
Session 11 : Consistent Verb Tenses, Peer Editing, Writing Conferences
Session 12 : Editing vs. Revising Rough drafts, Writing Conferences
Session 13-15: Publishing final drafts, Writing Conferences

Each lesson plan has standard alignment, lesson plans for learning period, interactive notebook pages when applicable, teacher prep, writing conference forms and examples, and more!

INTERACTIVE NOTEBOOK PAGES

With middle school narrative essays I find that students need some front loading before drafting. Because of that, we do spend the first few days doing some interactive notebook lessons on elements of narrative.

elements of narrative essay interactive notebook lesson

Personal narratives are all about teaching students to use the elements of narrative writing. Since we aren’t doing a personal narrative, I focus heavily on the elements of a narrative to start. We start by defining each of the elements but then look for examples in our mento texts. This is huge because they use their mentor text to write their essays.

interactive notebook lessons for narrative elements plot dialogue sensory details

DIFFERENTIATED EXAMPLES BY GRADE LEVEL

As someone who taught all three grade levels of middle school at the same time, I always needed different examples. I like to be able to use the same units, but use different content. If there is an interactive notebook lesson, I made sure to differentiate examples by grade level.

middle school narrative essay elements interactive notebook for establishing context logical event sequence situate events in a time and place develop the point of view develop character motives and use dialogue

The same is done for all of the lesson plans when there are examples based on the mentor texts. I use Ghost for sixth grade, Freak the Mighty seventh grade, and The Outsiders for eighth grades, so I make sure I have different examples for each.

It drove me crazy when students would say things like, “I don’t get what to do.” So I made sure I had examples that were conceptualized for each grade level so there was no excuse.

middle school narrative essay plot diagram for mento texts

NARRATIVE ESSAY CHART PAPERS

I know I teach middle school ELA, but I still love using chart papers for students to reference. Most of my interactive notebook lessons were adapted and created based on the chart papers.

You don’t have to do both the chart papers and the interactive notebook lessons, but I did include images of all my chart papers. I honestly just made them as I came up with elements that I knew we need to dig deeper into throughout the unit.

When I was in a pinch some year, I honestly could just print the chart papers on 8×10 paper so students could glue them into their notebooks. I don’t think it is as effective as student taking their own notes, but sometimes you’re short on time.

middle school narrative essay chart papers for lessons

INDIVIDUAL WRITING CONFERENCES

I strongly believe that my students write really strong narrative essays because of how I do writing conferences with students.

I have a separate blog post all about how I do writing conference in my middle school ELA classroom , because there was a time when I did them like I “thought” I needed to do writing conferences.

I thought I needed to spend time training them, making them be prepared for them, and then trying to come up with discussion points. I’ve since learned that that just isn’t reality when you have 100+ middle school ELA students.

Check out my blog post all about this here.

I also have since made tons of editable middle school narrative essays rubrics and writing conference forms for teachers and students.

editable narrative essay rubrics and writing conference forms for middle school ELA

FREE NARRATIVE REFERENCE NOTEBOOKS

One of the biggest updates I made while redoing my narrative writing unit was making a narrative reference notebook.

It’s perfect for students to create at the beginning of the units and to reference while creating their narrative essays.

middle school narrative reference notebook free resource

Read more about: Back to School , Middle School ELA Assessment , Middle School Writing , Organization , Printables for Teachers

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Get your free middle school ela pacing guides with completed scopes and sequences for the school year..

My ELA scope and sequence guides break down every single middle school ELA standard and concept for reading, writing, and language in 6th, 7th, and 8th grade. Use the guides and resources exactly as is or as inspiration for you own!

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Narrative Essays: Examples And Topic Ideas For Students

Writing a narrative essay is a great way to share your life with others. Here, we’ll explore topics that will set you up to write a great narrative essay.

If you’re searching for a list of personal narrative essay topics, you’re likely writing a middle school, high school, or college essay. A personal narrative describes your life experience, usually from the first-person point of view.

There are many different approaches to take to writing a narrative essay. Good narrative essay topics are engaging and can be either serious or silly. A personal narrative is not an argument essay or a persuasive essay; rather, it tells a story from your point of view.

Narrative essay writers are constantly on the lookout for things that happen in their lives that teach a lesson, make a point, or tell a funny story. When brainstorming for the best topic for your narrative essay, think about something that happened in your life that you love sharing with others, and work to translate your story into written prose that will hook your readers.

Here, we’ll explore some of the best narrative essay topic examples and ideas, helping you get your writing started right.

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers

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Narrative Essay Examples

1. the power of potstickers by lauren brown, 2. everyone should have a best friend 30 years older than them by lucy holden, 3. all it takes is a small act of kindness by maddie huiras, 4. a reflection on working in labor & delivery by dr. amos grunebaum, md, 5. pressures of being a first generation american-born citizen by helen bezikyan, narrative essay topic ideas, 1. your first day of high school, 2. how you met your best friend, 3. your best birthday party, 4. your favorite (or most difficult) childhood memory, 5. your most embarrassing moment, 6. how you made a difficult decision, 7. an act of kindness, 8. a tribute to your first pet.

Although I find the exact measurements of recipes comforting, I do my best to add a pinch of this and a dash of that in my meals every so often. It’s how I get to go outside my comfort zone every day. And I see in myself a newfound wisdom: it’s ok to go off the beaten path, you can experiment, compromise can lead to something new and beautiful. My mother’s cooking taught me that and I expect to bring that with me wherever I may go.

In this food-based tribute to her mother’s ingenuity, Brown discusses important family memories while sharing lessons from her mother that she now carries through everyday life. The combination of rich descriptive language with an explanation of how the experience of cooking with her mother shaped her life draws the reader in, helping them to feel like they’re in the kitchen with Brown and her mother.

In short, we adopted each other as confidants and met regularly to discuss life in general. He was more supportive than anyone else I met during the whole three years and stepped out of his remit to give me tailored advice that definitely helped me to get a job in journalism. It was clear from the start that he cared more about what was right for me than what was right for the university league tables, perhaps because he actually knew me. When I told him I was worried that the long days I was doing in the student newspaper office would take a toll on my degree, he told me I could get a first if I wanted one, but thought the student paper stuff would help my career much more.

It can be hard to find a friend who knows you better than yourself, and Holden discusses that phenomenon in their essay on friendship. She discusses how her friend affected her life during their time together and how he affected her after being separated by distance. In this narrative essay, the author works to describe the feelings she experienced through the ups and downs of their friendship, writing about universal truths that all humans experience in relationships.

Throughout his life, he had gotten used to dealing with Dyskeratosis congenita, and as life went on, he eventually developed cancer; but even while battling cancer, my dad showed kindness. In fact, on the night before he passed away, even though he knew he wouldn’t be with us for much longer, he tried his best to focus on the positive stuff.

In this essay, Huiras reflects on the life and death of her father and celebrates his commitment to kindness to others throughout his life. While Huiras narrates the events that led to her father’s death, she also describes how his actions and character significantly affect her life, helping her grow into the woman she wants to be.

Labor & Delivery is getting tears in your eyes when you watch a couple you’ve connected with welcome their baby into the world. Even though you’ve just met and will likely never see each other again, there’s something special about sharing that experience that makes you feel like you’ve known each other forever. Labor & Delivery is a place full of opposites. A woman grieving a devastating loss can be in the room next door to a family celebrating a new addition and 14-year-old mother can be in the room next door to a 45-year-old mother. Regardless of the circumstances, each family that walks through the L&D doors will be forever changed.

In this essay on life behind the doors of the delivery room, Dr. Grunebaum shares what it’s like to both celebrate and grieve with families and how difficult it can be to manage both the chaos and joy that comes with the birth process. If you choose to write an essay about a process so personal as birth, leave out any details that could identify the people involved, as Grunebaum does in this essay.

The struggles that come with having immigrant parents may include constant seeking of approval, always having to be responsible, as well as immigrant parents discussing the future that they may have already planned for their child. More often than not, immigrant parents constantly remind their child, or children that they expect big and great things from them in the future, which is part of why they came to this country.

In this essay, Bezikyan discusses the unique pressures of being a first-generation American-born citizen. In addition to offering her perspective, she also offers the opinions of others in similar circumstances. This helps to support her opinion and help others see the shared experience of people born to immigrant parents.

Narrative Essay Topics: Your first day of high school

Whether you’re a college or high school student, you likely remember your first day of high school—stepping away from middle school and becoming a young adult. The first day of high school is rife with emotion, and describing your experience can provide your reader with an interesting perspective on how you deal with transition and change.

When describing the big day, use details. Explain how you felt as you walked toward the door, how you felt when you struggled to find your classes, and what it was like opening your new locker for the first time. As you write, you may find it helpful to avoid technical details (like the minute-to-minute scheduling of your classes) and instead focus on unique or tough moments or how accomplished you felt by the end of the day.

Your best friend has been there for you through thick and thin, and writing about how the two of you met can be a fun narrative essay topic, no matter your age or writing level.

As you tell the story of how you met your best friend, describe how your connection grew over time. Perhaps you were thick as thieves right away, or you needed some time to realize that you’d met a lifelong friend. For some inspiration, reach out to your best friend and ask them what they remember from the day you met—it can be fun and fresh to get their perspective on how your first meeting went.

Birthdays are a time to celebrate, and writing about a particularly excellent birthday can be a great topic for your narrative essay. When discussing your best birthday party, include all details, including who you invited, what you ate, and how you celebrated with family and friends.

You may also want to talk about why that particular birthday was so meaningful to you. If it was a landmark birthday (like your sweet 16) or a special event (like your last birthday party at home before you left for college), be sure to mention this, so your reader understands why this event was so significant in your life.

There’s no way around it: traumatic things happen in childhood, and wonderful things happen. Writing about childhood memories can be relatable and provide an instant connection with your readers.

When choosing a favorite childhood memory to write about, think back to memorable times in your life because they’re connected with strong emotions. Perhaps you want to write about when your baby sibling came home from the hospital or your first baseball game.

If you choose to write about a difficult childhood memory, the process for choosing a topic is still the same. Think back to a childhood memory that evokes strong emotion. While writing about a negative childhood memory can be an excellent way to write a compelling personal essay, it can also bring up challenging thoughts and may feel traumatic.

Have a particular time that made you red in the face? Writing about an embarrassing moment is relatable and can provide a humorous topic for your narrative essay.

When writing about your embarrassing moment, it can be helpful if you’re willing to laugh at yourself and find the humor in the situation you went through. Be sure to describe what happened from start to finish, painting a clear picture of the moment for your readers. Describe your emotions as the embarrassing moment occurred, and talk about what happened after the moment was over.

Wrestling with a difficult decision can feel impossible at the moment, and reflecting on the experience of making a difficult decision to your readers can make for an excellent narrative essay topic.

When you’re talking about a difficult decision in your narrative essay, give plenty of background information so that the reader fully understands why you’re wrestling with a tough choice. Don’t give away your decision at the start of the essay; rather, take the reader through your thought process as you had to decide what to do.

Sharing an act of kindness you did with someone else—or a random act of kindness that someone did for you—can provide a warm, fuzzy topic for your narrative essay. When writing about an act of kindness, focus on how the act made you feel, whether you were the giver or the receiver of the act.

Much like writing about meeting your best friend for the first time, it can be helpful to talk about your state of mind before and after the act of kindness occurred. Perhaps you were going through a tough time, and the act of kindness helped to boost your mood. Explaining the emotions that came with the act of kindness and the facts of the situation can help your reader feel connected to your story.

Narrative Essay Topics: A Tribute To Your First Pet

Whether you have a dog, a cat, or something more exotic, many readers will be able to connect with the love that a kid has for their first pet. When writing a narrative essay about your first pet, please explain how you felt the first time you laid eyes on them. This may mean describing when they were first presented to you as a kitten or a puppy or the first time you saw your older rescue pet.

Talk about the qualities you loved most about your pet, whether that was their ability to comfort you after a bad day or how they were never too old or tired to go outside and play frisbee. Focus both on the descriptive qualities of your pet that allow your reader to imagine what they looked like and the emotional qualities that keep your first pet near and dear to your heart to this day.

If you have a pet currently, you can mention them in your narrative essay about your first pet, talking about their qualities that remind you of your first pet. While it can tug at your heartstrings to describe the memory of your first pet, writing about the love you have for an animal is nearly universally relatable, and your readers will love hearing about your fond memories of your furry friend.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

If you’re still stuck, check out our available resources for essay writing topics .

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by Michelle Boyd Waters, M.Ed.

13 Narrative Writing Prompts For Secondary Students

September 29, 2015 in Pedagogy

A few years ago, I tried to show a documentary about the Titanic sinking to a classroom full of 7th graders on the last day before a holiday. Big mistake! While the students are fascinated by the Titanic, they found the documentary incredibly boring. My team leader and I ended up having to show them a movie instead. A few days later, we started reading a story about the Titanic and the students loved it. They also told me that they loved the three-hour-long Titanic movie staring Kate Winslet and Leonard DiCaprio. I found the juxtaposition of their responses to the documenary verses the movie fascinating — and telling. so I asked them what the difference was between the two. Why was the documentary so boring, but the movie would hold their interest for three hours.

One student responded with gusto: “Because it’s a loooove story!”

What she didn’t know is that her response to the story has a basis in science: We are wired to enjoy stories .

Since most people have a built-in. scientifically-proven predilection for stories for dry facts, it’s very important that students learn to tell a good yarn. The best way to learn how to tell good stories, much like learning how to ice skate without falling on your backside, is to practice.

So I am sharing below a few writing prompts you can give to your students, so they’ll have plenty of opportunity to exercise their writing muscles.

Narrative writing prompts

Think about something that happened to you that you’ll never forget. Write about what happened, who was involved and where it happened. Make sure you capture what makes that event hard to forget.
Think about a memorable event that happened when you were in elementary school. Write a story describing what happened, who was involved, and where it took place. Be sure to capture the importance of the event.
You are on your way home when zombies begin to take over your town. You’ve never believed in zombies, but now you see them with your own eyes. Write a science fiction story telling what the zombies do, what happens to everyone you know, and what you do about it. Make sure you create and describe characters, conflict, and the setting.
Pretend that your favorite character has stepped out of the pages of a book, or out of your television, and into real life. Write a story about what happens that day.
Weather affects people in different ways around the globe. Think about a time when the weather has had a significant impact on your life. Write a story sharing your experience.
Write about a time that you surprised someone. Write a story sharing how you planned the surprise, and what happened, being careful to build suspense so that the reader is surprised, too.
Think about a time when you embarked on a journey to reach a personal goal. Tell your story, being sure to include the challenges you faced, what might have prevented you from reaching your goal, and how you were transformed by the journey.
Think about a time when you stood up for what you believed in. Be sure to set share with your reader what the situation was like, what happened when you stood your ground, and what happened as a result.
Imagine that you wake up tomorrow morning and discover that you’ve been transported into your favorite novel or movie. Write a story telling what happens during the one day you live with those characters.
Imagine that you are the last person left on the earth. There is a knock at the door…
Choose a super power and then write a story about how you would change the world.
Think about a time when you didn’t know what to say — until it was too late. Retell your story the way you wish it had happened.
Tell a story about your favorite person. Make sure you describe that person’s character traits, and tell a story that illustrates why they are your favorite.

Need prompts in multiple writing modes for every day of the school year? Check out 180+ Days of Quickwrites !

Related topics: Narrative Writing , Quickwriting , Teaching Writing

About the author

Michelle Boyd Waters, M.Ed.

I am a secondary English Language Arts teacher, a University of Oklahoma student working on my doctorate in Instructional Leadership and Academic Curriculum with an concentration in English Education and co-Editor of the Oklahoma English Journal. I am constantly seeking ways to amplify students' voices and choices.

I’m excited for my 7th grader I know he will be experiencing and exploring new ideas new friends and of course new boundaries… writing and legible handwriting has been a struggle for him in grade school I really enjoyed reading through this website it makes writing seem less intimidating and giving confidence on having that successful paper/story ..I am hoping it will give him a new outlook on how fun as well as important writing can be. Thank you very much I am excited to share this site with him. Its perfect for discouraging writers as I once was going through school!!!

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Tiny Memoir Contest for Students: Write a 100-Word Personal Narrative

We invite teenagers to tell a true story about a meaningful life experience in just 100 words. Contest dates: Nov. 6 to Dec. 4, 2024.

A banner of six purple and black illustrations. From left to right: a woman hanging a star in a window with the help of a little girl; two men staring lovingly at each other over a small table; a man presenting a miniature Christmas tree to his pet fish; a frog reaching out his arms to a squiggly figure; three family members piled on top of each other on a couch; a woman looking pensively out a widow as it snows outside.

By The Learning Network

Illustrations from Modern Love’s Tiny Love Stories , the inspiration for this contest.

Can you tell a meaningful and interesting true story from your life in just 100 words? That’s the challenge we pose to teenagers with our 100-Word Personal Narrative Contest, a storytelling form popularized by Modern Love’s Tiny Love Stories series .

After running this contest for two years, receiving a total of more than 25,000 entries, and honoring dozens of excellent miniature teen-written memoirs, we have discovered the answer is a resounding yes .

So, we challenge you to try it yourself.

We’re not asking you to write to a particular theme or to use a specific structure or style, but we are looking for short, powerful stories about a particular moment or event in your life. We want to hear your story, told in your unique voice, and we hope you’ll experiment with style and form to tell a tale that matters to you, in a way you enjoy telling it.

And, yes, it’s possible to do all that in only 100 words. For proof, just look at last year’s 15 winning entries . We also have a step-by-step guide full of advice that is grounded in 25 excellent 100-word mentor texts, as well as a rehearsal space , published for our first year’s contest, that has over 1,000 student-written mini memoirs. Because that space was so successful, we’re keeping it open for this year’s contest. We hope students will use it to get inspiration, experiment and encourage each other.

Take a look at the full guidelines and related resources below. Please post any questions you have in the comments and we’ll answer you there, or write to us at [email protected]. And, consider hanging this PDF one-page announcement on your class bulletin board.

Here’s what you need to know:

Resources for Teachers and Students
Frequently Asked Questions
Submission Form

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