end of year creative writing prompts

70 End-of-the-Year Journal Prompts: Fun and Creative Writing Ideas to Reflect on the Past Year

By: Author Valerie Forgeard

Posted on Published: October 6, 2022  - Last updated: December 26, 2023

Categories Creativity , Inspiration , Writing

It’s that time of year again! The end of the year is a time for reflection, and what better way to reflect on the past year than by writing about it? This blog post will provide a list of fun and creative journal prompts to help you document your thoughts and memories from the past year. Whether you are looking to reminisce on all the good times you had or want to document some of your challenges, these prompts will help get you started!

70 End-of-the-Year Journal Prompts

These 70 journal writing prompts help and encourage you to record your experiences throughout the year. These year reflection questions are perfect for the year’s beginning, middle, or end.

Start With a Journal Prompt of Your Choice and See How It Goes!

Reflecting on a Year

• What was the best thing that happened to you this year?
• The best way to describe the past year would be…
• What did you accomplish this year?
• Did your goals change during the year? If so, why did they change, and how did that affect your life?
• What did you accomplish that you didn’t think was possible?
• What was your biggest accomplishment this year? Did it change your life or make it easier for you? In what way?
• What did you like best about this year?
• What were your highlights during each month of the year?
• How would you describe your mood during the year?
• How did your mindset evolve this year?
• Write about a time when you felt empowered.
• Describe a time when you felt like you made a difference in someone else’s life (e.g., a friend, family member, or student).
• Write about something that made you laugh this year – even if it was at yourself!
• Write about something that happened to you this year that made you feel like an era was ending, but not necessarily in a bad way!
• What was your biggest challenge? Why was it so difficult?
• Write about the biggest challenge you faced this year and how you overcame it (or didn’t).
• What do you wish for next year?
• How do your goals for next year differ from those of previous years?
• If something didn’t go as planned this year, what was it, and how did you feel about it?
• If something went particularly well this year, what was it, and how did you feel about it?
• What was an important lesson learned from the past year?
• How can you improve your daily routine in the coming year?
• Write down a positive memory from the year. What made it feel so great? How can you use that feeling in the future? Reflecting on Life’s Journey
• Review everything that happened this year and write down one thing you learned about yourself from each experience.
• What’s the best way to celebrate the end of a year? How can you make sure this party is memorable?
• What do you want to do before the next year begins? Can you do it now? If not, when will you be able to do it?
• What was your favorite part of your vacations this year?
• What do you regret most about this year?
• What would you like to forget from the past year?
• What was the most surprising thing that happened to you this year?
• In what ways were you different at the end of the year than you were at the beginning?
• What was the most surprising thing that happened to you this year? Why was it surprising?
• What do you want to remember from this year?
• What did you learn from your teachers this year?
• How did your first part of the school year go?
• What will you improve in school this coming year?
• Did you learn a new skill? Which one?
• Did you start a new hobby? Why or why not?
• Who did you spend the most time with this year?
• Write about your best experience this year.
• What was your favorite book this year? Why did it make a memorable impression on you?
• What was your favorite song this year?
• What was your favorite movie this year?
• Who were the most influential people in your life this year?
• What new foods have you discovered in the last 12 months?
• What do you wish you’d done more of this year?
• What do you wish you’d done less of this year?
• What was the most excellent compliment you received this year?
• What’s the most excellent thing you did for someone else this year?
• If you could turn back time, what advice would you give yourself at the beginning of this year?
• How has your relationship with your family changed over the years? How has it stayed the same?
• What do you need to improve about your relationships in the next year? Navigating Changes
• How has your relationship with your friends changed over the years? How has it stayed the same?
• Who made you angry or upset this year?
• Who’s helped you this year?
• How have you grown over the past year?
• What goals or resolutions did you set last year, and how did they make you who you are today?
• What are you looking forward to in the next year?
• How do you envision next year?
• What are your goals for next year?
• Who do you need to reach out to, or what do you need to do to make those goals a reality?
• How will you measure your progress?
• What do you want to change about yourself in the new year?
• What do you want to do differently in the next year?
• What do you want to stay the same in the next year?
• Do you need to set limits for yourself in the next year? If so, what are they and why?
• How would you describe your outlook on life right now?
• Do you still have goals from this year that you want to continue working on?
• What can you let go of to make room for something better?
• What do you hope for yourself in the next year?
• What do you want for the world in the next year?
• How to improve your creative writing skills when writing your journal

The end of the year is a time to reflect on your work, your life, and what you want to accomplish in the coming year. It’s also a time to reflect on your diary writing skills.

Tips for Enhancing Your Daily Practice

Writing a journal every day can be a challenge. Many people fall behind or skip days. This can cause stress and make writing the diary a chore.

Here are some tips on how to improve your writing skills:

• Use a timer for each writing prompt . Take 15 minutes for each journaling prompt and set an alarm if needed.
• Write about something different each day . Don’t repeat the same things repeatedly, or you’ll get bored with the topic and stop writing!
• Set goals for the topics you want to cover in your journal entries throughout the year (for example, one topic per month). Refer to these goals when you write your journal so you don’t stray too far from them!
• Make sure each entry has at least two paragraphs. This way, the reader will learn more about what’s going on in your life than if they only had a single paragraph!
• If possible, write your journal entries in the morning or evening when you’ve more energy. Writing after work or school is better if you’re in a hurry in the morning.

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365 Journal Prompts to Help You Reflect, Grow, and Connect: A Year of Self-Discovery

20 End of School Year Writing Prompts

by Sue Weems | 0 comments

We're inching closer to the end of the school year for students (or maybe you're already done, like my college students!). Major testing winds down, days are full of assemblies, field days, educational games, and the countdown to summer is on. These final weeks of school are the perfect time though to sneak in some fun writing. Here are some end of school year writing prompts to try!

The end of the school year is fast approaching, and students are getting ready to say goodbye to their current grade and hello to summer break. It's a time to reflect on all they have learned throughout the year and to look forward to the adventures that await them during the summer months.

I always have students write more reflective pieces in the final weeks of school. But in the past few years with emerging writers, I have loved offering creative prompts too.

Try some of these end of school year writing prompts this month!

Looking Back: Reflective Writing Prompts

Students may be feeling a mix of emotions as they prepare to leave their current class and teacher behind. Writing can be a great way for them to express these feelings and to share their thoughts. Here are some of my favorite prompts:

• What were some of the biggest challenges you faced this year and how did you approach them?
• Write a letter to your August self from the beginning of the school year, telling them how proud you are of all they've accomplished. Be specific.
• What will you miss most about this school year or what was one of your favorite memories and why?
• What will you miss least about this school year and why?
• Who has been most helpful or encouraging to you this year? Consider writing them a short gratitude letter to let them know how much you appreciate them.
• What was your favorite part of the regular school day this year and why?

Looking Forward Writing Prompts

• Write a letter to future students who will be in this class or grade next year, giving them your best tips.
• What are you looking forward to most about this summer? Why?
• What goals do you have for next year and why are they important to you? (These don't have to only be school related!)
• Write a letter to your teacher for next year, giving them insight about you.
• What character qualities do you hope to display in the coming year? Why do you want those qualities?

Creative Writing Activities

• Team up with a partner and come up with a character who wants something BIG. Then write their story, each of you writing one sentence at a time.
• Think of your favorite fairy tale. Retell the story from a different perspective. (For example, the wolf's side of the “Three Little Pigs”)
• Who is your favorite character from books, tv, or video games? Write a new adventure for them.
• Create a journal entry for a villain or a misunderstood character (For example, Voldemort's diary entry after a tough day).
• Choose a fun picture from a book or art website. Write a new story about what's happening in the picture.
• Create a recipe for something absurd, listing out the ingredients and amounts, along with the step by step instructions for making it. (examples: spider cookies, string bean cake, etc.)
• Think about the last fictional story you read or watched. Choose one of the characters and write a letter of apology from their point of view to another character.
• Write about the last day of school at an unusual place: zoo school, magic school, dog training school.

Celebrate an Ending with Writing

Hope these prompts produce some fun writing pieces to share together here at the end of the school year.

Which one is your favorite writing prompt? Share in the comments .

Set the timer for fifteen minutes . Choose one of the prompts above and write. When the timer dings, s hare your practice in the Pro Practice Workshop , and leave feedback for a few other writers.

Not a member? Join us .

Sue Weems is a writer, teacher, and traveler with an advanced degree in (mostly fictional) revenge. When she’s not rationalizing her love for parentheses (and dramatic asides), she follows a sailor around the globe with their four children, two dogs, and an impossibly tall stack of books to read. You can read more of her writing tips on her website .

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Award-winning instructor and writer of 20+ years, book coach, and editor. Sue Weems specializes in working with Children's, Memoir, Middle Grade, Mystery, Nonfiction, Romance, and Thriller books. Sound like a good fit for you?

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Teaching with Jennifer Findley

Upper Elementary Teaching Blog

Free End of Year Writing Prompts

By the time the end of the school year arrives, I am digging down deep in my bag of tricks and searching my resources for new ideas to engage my students. Often, we have used our best activities and resources well before the final month of school. This post will give you some fresh end of year writing prompts just for that final month of school (with ideas on how to make them more engaging for students who have checked out).

Using the End of Year Writing Prompts

These end of the year writing prompts can be used for:

• Writing centers or stations
• Early finisher activities
• Independent writing activities

Want to add in some instant engagement if your students are reluctant writers? Try these tips:

• Take them outside to write. Want prompts designed specifically for outdoor writing? Click here.
• Let the students write with partners.
• Allow the students to choose the prompts they want to write about.
• Make these a whole group (and silly) writing activity by choosing one prompt for all of the students to write. Give the students 3-5 minutes to start writing the essay/story. Then have them leave their papers on their desks and rotate to another desk. Give them a few minutes to read the story on the desk they are at now and then a few more minutes to add to it. Continue the activity for about 20-30 minutes. Then have the students return to their desks to read their original stories. This works really well with narrative or how-to prompts.
• Let the students write their essays/stories on dry-erase boards. You won’t be able to check them or save them, but your students will love the chance to actually write an essay on a dry-erase board.

Here are the writing prompts…free downloadable versions available at the end of this post.

Narrative Writing Prompts

• Thinking back on the school year, write a personal narrative describing your favorite memory and why it stood out amongst the other school days.
• Go back in time to the first day of school, and write a letter to yourself describing three of the things you will learn this year and why they’re important.
• It’s the last day of school and you get locked in after everyone leaves. Write about what happens next.
• Imagine that you’re an object in the classroom (i.e., desk, pencil sharpener, whiteboard, etc.), and write a story about the things that happened during the school year from the perspective of that object.
• Write a fictional narrative pretending that you switched places with a cafeteria worker for the day.
• You’re working as a school custodian. It’s the last day of school, and you enter the school gymnasium. Write a story about what you find and what happens next.
• The principal calls you to his or her office and explains that your teacher will be out for the rest of the school year. It’s up to you to teach the class for the rest of the year. Write a story explaining what happens next.
• Finish this story: I was walking by the art room on the last day of school when I suddenly saw…
• You’re helping your teacher pack up the classroom library when you find something unexpected behind the books. Write a story describing what you find and what happens next.
• Write a fictional narrative pretending that the school just announced that summer break has been canceled and that the new school year will start next week.

Persuasive/Opinion Writing Prompts

• Do you think schools should be year-round or follow a traditional school calendar with summers off? Write a persuasive essay supporting your opinion.
• In your opinion, should teachers give schoolwork over the summer vacation? Write an opinion piece that supports your stance.
• Many people believe that schools should have later start times to allow students to get enough sleep. Write a persuasive essay explaining your position on the issue.
• Students must turn in their tablets and computers at the end of each school year. Should they be allowed to take them home and use them during the summer instead? Write an opinion piece that clearly supports your position.
• In your opinion, which job is the most important at your school? Write an opinion piece that clearly supports your opinion.
• Write a letter to your principal persuading him or her to have field trips over the summer. Include the benefits of having summer field trips as well as possible locations in your letter.

Informational Writing Prompts

• Compare and contrast this school year and last school year.
• Write a letter to a student who is entering the grade you’re completing, and explain how to be successful next year.
• What is needed to have a fun summer? Write an informational essay explaining the things needed to have a fun and exciting summer. Include details about each thing and why it is important.
• Write an informational piece outlining a typical school day for a student in your grade.
• Write a how-to essay explaining how to have the best last day of school. In your essay, include the characteristics of an ideal last day of school.

Descriptive Prompts

• Describe the ideal summer day. Include details about the weather, the activities, and the people involved.
• Describe your school in detail. Include details about the activities offered, the mascot, the colors, and the academics.
• Describe the perfect day of school. In your description, include details about how the day would be, from beginning to end.

Digital End of Year Reflection Prompts

These free end of year writing prompts are now available in digital format with Google Slides. When you download the PDF (from the next section), you will find the links to access the digital end of year writing prompts on the first page.

Here are some ideas for using these free digital end of year writing prompts:

• Assign one prompt at a time.
• Assign several prompts at a time for completion within a specified time frame.
• Assign several prompts at a time but allow students to choose a specific number to complete from the total assigned.

Need help assigning Google Slides through Google Classroom? Click here!

Download the FREE End of Year Writing Prompts

Want More End of the Year Activities for Literacy?

Interested in more end of the year activities for literacy? Click here or on the image below to see my End of the Year Literacy Activities for 4th and 5th grade.

The resource contains over 20 no-/low-prep activities for reading and writing, with TWELVE of those in digital format!

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Reader interactions.

April 27, 2020 at 1:37 pm

Jennifer, I am retiring at the end of this school year. I have taught for 32 years and I’m 66 years old–but a very young 66. I couldn’t have made it without your amazing contribution to education. The past two years I have stepped back into a 5th grade classroom, after four years as a district instructional coach. It was a huge change for me. I have used your products enough that I consider you a good friend. So, when I google something, and you pop up first, I totally say, “Hey, I know her. Her stuff is the best!!” I have also appreciated your distance learning ideas and activities, both free and paid. They have saved me the last six weeks or so. Thank you so much and good luck with your business.

May 7, 2020 at 12:30 am

Thank you so much. These look amazing.

June 3, 2020 at 4:49 pm

Thank you very much. These are very helpful. You are totally right, it has been a strange end to the 2019-20 school year.

July 19, 2020 at 1:05 pm

Do you employ the use of daily prompts to kickstart your journal writing?

https://dailyjournal.club/journal-prompts-2-step-process-for-success/

May 18, 2021 at 2:47 pm

Thank you so much for the EOY writing prompts–they are fantastic!! I focus on writing all year long, and toward the end of May, I always feel like I’m out of ideas!! Your prompts are engaging and fresh. Thank you so much for sharing freely!!

May 24, 2022 at 3:05 pm

Jennifer, Thank you so much for sharing these awesome end of the year writing ideas! It is greatly appreciated! Diana

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I’m Jennifer Findley: a teacher, mother, and avid reader. I believe that with the right resources, mindset, and strategies, all students can achieve at high levels and learn to love learning. My goal is to provide resources and strategies to inspire you and help make this belief a reality for your students.

25 End of the Year Writing Prompts

It’s almost the end of the year, which means reflecting on it is all upon us.

Think back on the year – the good, the bad, and the weird.

Feeling sentimental?

Pumped for what’s next?

This is your chance to capture it all with your creativity.

Whether you’re a writing whiz or just starting out, these prompts are here to spark your creativity and get you thinking about the year that was.

We’re talking memories, challenges, wins, and everything in between.

Plus, by writing it all down, you’re not just preserving the good stuff, you’re also figuring out what kind of awesome journey you’ve been on.

End of the Year Writing Prompts

1. the unfinished symphony of the year.

Reflect on your experiences throughout the year. Think of the year as an unfinished symphony where each experience, event, or milestone is a note contributing to the melody. Detail those experiences that you feel were left incomplete, or those you wish to further explore. Maybe there’s a relationship you want to build on, a skill you started learning, or a goal you haven’t yet achieved.

Write a creative narrative that tells the story of your “unfinished symphony,” filled with its beautiful and jarring notes. Consider how you might compose the remaining piece in the next year.

2. Unboxing My Memories: A Year in Objects

Think about the physical objects that held the most significance for you this year. It could be a memento from a trip, a gift from a loved one, a book that changed your outlook, or even a simple everyday object that took on new meaning.

Craft a series of short stories or vignettes where each object serves as the centerpiece, revealing its story, your connection to it, and how it represents your journey through the year.

3. The Insignificant Yet Pivotal Moments

Sometimes, it’s the seemingly insignificant moments that end up shaping our lives in unexpected ways. Reflect on those small moments from your past year that had larger implications than you initially realized.

Write a reflective essay detailing these moments and how they subtly influenced your path over the year, and potentially into the future.

4. The Strangers Who Made a Difference

Every year, we cross paths with strangers who impact our lives in big and small ways. Reflect on the interactions with strangers that left a mark on you this year.

Write a series of letters to these strangers, expressing what you learned from them and how they impacted your life, even in their fleeting presence.

5. Lessons from the Year’s Best Mistakes

Consider the mistakes you made this year and what you learned from them. Oftentimes, our errors lead us to unforeseen wisdom or shifts in perspective that we otherwise wouldn’t encounter.

Craft a reflective piece exploring your top three mistakes of the year, the lessons you took away from them, and how these missteps have enriched your life or shaped your outlook.

6. My 12-Month Journey with a New Hobby

If you picked up a new hobby this year, trace your daily journey from when you started to where you are now. If you haven’t, think of an interest you have that you would like to pursue in the coming year.

Write a progression story about this hobby, detailing your initial challenges, breakthrough moments, and how this new skill or interest has enriched your year.

7. The Annual Emotional Landscape: Peaks and Valleys

Our emotional landscape is a complex terrain, filled with highs and lows. Reflect on the significant emotional experiences you’ve had this year, both the peaks of joy and the valleys of challenges.

Pen a personal essay exploring these emotional highs and lows, offering a raw and honest insight into your yearly journey.

8. Through the Rearview Mirror: A Perspective Shift

Reflect on how your views on a particular topic have changed over the past year. This could be anything from political views, to your stance on work-life balance, or even how you perceive yourself.

Write a comparative piece that explores the evolution of your perspective, focusing on the events or experiences that prompted these shifts in thinking.

9. The Unexpected Resolution of New Year

Reflect on a resolution that you never thought you would make. Perhaps it’s something that once scared you, seemed impossible, or simply wasn’t on your radar before. What led you to this unexpected decision? What challenges do you foresee in fulfilling this resolution, and how are you planning to overcome them? Imagine this as an exciting chapter of your life, full of unknown twists and turns.

Craft a personal narrative detailing the story behind your unexpected New Year’s resolution.

10. The Party that Changed Everything

Picture the wildest New Year’s Eve party that could ever happen. It could be full of fantastical elements, outrageous scenarios, or incredible celebrity appearances. Now, imagine something pivotal happened at this party that forever changed your life or the world at large. What was it? Write a vivid short story encapsulating this memorable night.

11. Traveling Back in Time on New Year’s Eve

On New Year’s Eve, you are given a magical artifact that can transport you back to any year in the past. Consider why you would choose that particular year and what you would do there. Would you change something about your life, witness a historical event, or meet a beloved figure from the past? Describe your fantasy adventure in a detailed, time-travel diary entry.

12. An Unforeseen Visitor on New Year’s Eve

It’s New Year’s Eve and there’s a knock at your door. You open it to find an unexpected visitor. This could be someone from your past, a famous personality, a mythical creature, or even an alien! What happens next? Write a dialogue-driven story detailing your encounter with this unforeseen visitor.

13. Reinventing Yourself: A New Year Transformation

The new year often symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings. Imagine you have decided to completely reinvent yourself in the coming year. Who do you want to become? What changes would you implement? And what challenges would you anticipate in this transformation? Write a reflective essay on your journey to a new you.

14. The Mysterious New Year’s Eve Countdown

On the stroke of midnight, as the New Year begins, something mysterious and magical happens. Maybe time stops for a moment, or maybe you gain a unique ability, or a cryptic message appears. What is this enigma and how does it affect your life moving forward? Create a suspenseful short story based on this magical occurrence.

15. A Year in Review: Moments of Triumph and Lessons Learned

Reflect on the past year – the good, the bad, and the ugly. What were your triumphs and what were your failures? What valuable lessons did you learn that will inform your decisions in the coming year? Write a heartfelt letter to your past self, filled with insights and encouragement.

16. Farewell Letter to the Last Year

Imagine the passing year as a person with whom you’ve shared joys, sorrows, and lessons. As you part ways, what would you like to tell them? Would you express gratitude, regret, or maybe give a piece of your mind? Write a heartfelt farewell letter to the outgoing year.

17. The Secret Language of New Year Resolutions

Imagine that your New Year resolutions are not simply goals or wishes, but cryptic clues to a grand mystery or adventure that unfolds over the year. Each resolution is a step, a hint, or a task that you must accomplish. What does each resolution represent and how does it guide you? Develop an adventurous short story unfolding the mystery hidden in your resolutions.

18. A Portal to Future: Midnight Moment

On New Year’s Eve, at the exact moment the clock strikes midnight, a portal to your future opens for just one minute. You can ask one question or see one thing – what would it be? How does this glimpse of the future affect your present and your plans for the coming year? Write a reflective narrative on this unique time-traveling experience.

19. A New Year’s Eve in Parallel Universe

Imagine spending the New Year’s Eve in a parallel universe where everything is slightly (or vastly) different. Maybe it’s a universe where time runs backward, or dinosaurs coexist with humans, or where the world is entirely underwater. How would you celebrate the New Year there? Compose a creative narrative depicting your extraordinary New Year’s Eve in a parallel universe.

20. The New Year’s Eve Heist

On New Year’s Eve, while everyone else is celebrating, you’re executing a thrilling heist. Maybe you’re stealing back a precious heirloom, or saving an exotic creature, or attempting to prevent a catastrophic event. What challenges do you encounter and how do you overcome them? Write a suspense-filled short story detailing your daring New Year’s Eve heist.

21. Meeting Your Future Self on New Year’s Day

As the first day of the new year unfolds, you bump into a stranger who turns out to be you from the future. They are here to share something important with you. What is their message? And how does it impact your present life? Create a thought-provoking narrative based on your interaction with your future self.

22. The Mysterious New Year’s Resolution List

You find a New Year’s resolution list on the ground. The list isn’t yours, but the resolutions mentioned are surprisingly relevant to your life. How does this list influence your decisions for the coming year, and do you try to find the person who wrote it? Write a detailed narrative exploring the mystery and impact of the found resolution list.

23. My Ideal New Year’s Day Celebration

If you could design your perfect New Year’s Day from start to finish, without any limitations of time, space, or resources, what would it look like? Would it be an intimate day full of relaxation, an extravagant celebration, or a day of philanthropy? Write a descriptive essay outlining your ideal New Year’s Day celebration.

24. A Strange New Year Tradition

Imagine a bizarre New Year’s tradition that is followed religiously in your town or family. Maybe it’s a peculiar dance, a unique dish, a strange countdown ritual, or a daring dare. How did this tradition come to be, and what does it mean to you? Craft a humorous narrative around this strange tradition and its significance.

25. New Year, New Rules: Reimagining the World

As the new year begins, you are given the power to establish three new rules that everyone in the world must follow. These could be related to kindness, environment conservation, social interaction, technology usage, or anything else. What are your rules and why? Write a persuasive essay justifying your chosen rules and predicting their impact.

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11 End of Year Writing Ideas and Activities

1. End of Year Letter to Future Students Activity

This is always a favorite!

Have your students write a letter to your class next year, offering advice and tips to help them survive the year.

You could let your students offer any advice they want, or provide direction by asking them to tell the future students:

• what they will learn
• what they should know about their teacher
• their favorite activity of the year
• something they have to look forward to

Save these letters and read them aloud to your new students at the beginning of the year!

This scaffolded resource guides your students from start to finish in creating an end of year letter to future students.   Even your struggling writers will be successful!  And best of all, you can use it digitally or in print.

2. An Autograph Book...That Encourages Writing!

Having students sign autograph books is a fun way to celebrate the end of the year.  But make this activity more meaningful and more personal with an autograph book that will encourage students to get past simply signing their name or writing "HAGS."

This autograph book includes sentence starters that encourage writing.  Students will be prompted to sign the autograph by sharing a favorite memory, or explaining something they like about the person, or predicting what the person will be doing in 30 years.

3. End of Year Opinion Writing

Chances are, your students could benefit from more opinion writing practice. Use one of these 7 end of year opinion writing prompts that have students reflect on the school year while giving them much needed practice.

If your students are still struggling with opinion writing, then consider providing them with sentence and paragraph frames for scaffolding. 

4. Share A Favorite Memory

Have your 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade students think about their favorite memories from the past school year, and then write about it!

This end of year writing idea is easily adaptable to any level.  Your more advanced writers could write about their top 3 favorite memories, while other students could just describe 1.

Best of all, this makes a great end of year countdown!

5. Compare and Contrast a Book with a Movie

Watching a movie is a common end of year activity, but why not make it more meaningful?  Have students watch a movie based on a book you have read together during the school year.  Then, have students write a paper comparing and contrasting the two.

Find more ideas here on how to make comparing and contrasting a book to its movie counterpart more rigorous.

6. End of Year Writing Reflection Prompts

For some shorter writing activities, ask students some end of the year reflection questions and have them respond with a paragraph or two.

Some sample reflection writing prompts are:

• What will you miss most about this school year?  Why?
• If you could travel back in time to the beginning of the school year, what advice would you give yourself?
• What is one thing you wish your teacher had done differently this year?  Why?

If you want to do this as a daily activity, then these reflection questions and writing prompts will come in handy!

7. Summer Words to Make a Summer Story

If you want students to practice writing fiction, have them write a summer story.  Assign them words that need to be included in the story to help get their creative juices flowing.

You could use this idea several times at the end of the year, just assign different words each time!

Here are some possible summer words to have students include in their summer story:

• diving board

8. Have Students Write a Thank You Note

9. write a summer poem.

The emotions associated with the end of the school year and the beginning of summer break make great inspiration for a poem.

You can keep it simple and have students write a few rhyming couplets, or teach one of these short forms of poetry.

If you think students might enjoy writing a some humorous poetry, consider teaching them how to write a limerick.  (This no prep resource makes teaching this form of poetry easy on you, and includes templates to help students write their own limericks.)

If you want students to be a little more reflective, consider teaching them all about haikus before having them write their own.   

10. Create a Summer Squiggle Drawing and Story

If you haven't ever tried squiggle stories with your 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade students, the end of year is the perfect time.

To write a squiggle story, give students a sheet of paper with a random squiggle on it.  They create a summer drawing that incorporates that squiggle.  Then, they write a short story based on their drawing.

This no prep resource includes plenty of squiggles and "prompts" to help direct students writing.  And best of all, it can be used all year, not just at the end of the year.

11. Write a Letter to Your Future Self

The end of the year is a great time to get students thinking about their future.  Students are already thinking nervously about what their new teacher will be like and what other kids will be in their classroom.

Encourage your students to do some soul searching and think about what they want from their future.  What advice would they give to their future self?  What sort of activities do they want to be a part of?  What kind of person do they hope to be?  What goals do they have?

This activity is very adaptable.  You could have students write a letter to themselves as a senior in high school, thinking more long term.

Or, have students write a letter to themselves for the upcoming school year.

For bonus points, hand out the letters or mail them to your students later on so that they can remember what they wrote!

Find more ideas to make the end of year easier on you here!

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27 End-of-Year Journal Prompts to Celebrate a Year of Growth

Journaling Prompts for the End of the Year

Let’s talk about end-of-year journal prompts!

Do you want to spend more time appreciating the passing year?

End-of-year journal prompts are the answer to reflecting on the events of the year, lessons learned, and what’s ahead.

It’s that time of year… we found our new planner, cute journals, and favorite pens. We’ve set our new goals, plans, and intentions. Then, we chill and wait for the new year.

But what happened this year? Did you start a new hobby? Learn a new skill? Overcome a fear?

Before we ring in the new year, let’s take some time to acknowledge and celebrate our personal growth in the passing year.

In this post, I’m sharing 27 journaling prompts to help you reflect on the passing year, get a sense of closure, and set intentions for the upcoming year.

So grab your favorite journal, pick a cozy spot, and let’s begin.

What are the benefits of using end-of-year journal prompts?

Deeper Understanding

Looking back on your year can help you understand yourself on a deeper level.

We seldom ponder our thoughts because we’re already moving on to the next thing. Let’s say you set a goal to read 50 books. With anticipation of meeting your goal, you rushed through the books. Did you get to know the characters? What about the plot? Did you get lost in the story?

Sometimes life can be like that! If we don’t take a moment to sit and reflect, we miss out on truly appreciating and understanding our experiences.

New Perspective

End-of-year writing prompts can give you a fresh perspective.

If you have a favorite TV series, I’m sure you’ve read commentaries to get a better understanding. You not only catch little details and Easter eggs you didn’t see before, but you also get a different perspective.

The same is true for our everyday lives. We’re often so engrossed in the daily grind that we miss the hidden gems in our lives.

But when we reflect, we get to playback our personal highlights and uncover valuable insights we might have overlooked.

27 End-of-Year Journal Prompts

1. what was my biggest challenge this year.

Think about your most trying moments of the year. It could be anything, like finding a new job, hitting a fitness goal, dealing with money troubles, or getting through a health scare. But don’t stop there. Think about how that experience made you feel and how it changed you. Did you overcome it? Are there moments you thought you wouldn’t? Is it still ongoing? What are you doing about it?

2. What was the biggest lesson I learned this year?

Was it a hard lesson to learn? Or was it a simple thing someone said that changed your life? What did you learn about yourself? Don’t just reflect on how this lesson made you feel. Consider how it impacted your beliefs, behaviors, and choices.

3. Looking back, what would I do differently last year?

Don’t let anyone fool you—it’s normal to have regrets. We all have them, from failed relationships to poor financial decisions. The problem is allowing it to hold us back. However, journaling can help you process your thoughts. So mull over that regret and use it to change the future.

4. What was my biggest accomplishment this year?

Do you have a hard time celebrating your wins? Journaling about your achievements can help you acknowledge and appreciate your hard work. As you reflect, think about what you’re the most proud of this year (big or small). What was your life like before this achievement? How have you grown through the process?

5. What goals did I accomplish this year?

Do you remember what goals you set on January 1st? It could be anything from getting out of debt, launching your side hustle, or learning to play the guitar. It’s so easy to forget. Take time to review your goals. How did you do? But don’t fixate on the numbers. Instead, focus on how your life has changed.

6. What am I most grateful for this year?

Did you know that practicing gratitude makes us happier ? Take a moment to reflect on something you’re thankful for in the previous year. Anything goes, whether it’s good health, family, your go-to meal, or your favorite book. Was it moments of joy or a difficult experience? You can’t go wrong here. Just let your feelings guide you.

7. How did I nurture my relationships this year?

Relationships matter, but we sometimes unknowingly neglect them. Reflect on your relationships and ask yourself the following questions. Do you think they’re healthy? How did you show up for your loved ones this year? Meaningful conversations? Any special events? How can you improve the relationship?

8. What was the biggest change I made this year

Change can be scary, but it’s also good. Think about the changes you made this year. It could be a physical, financial, or mindset change. What motivated you to make this change? Did you struggle with it for long? How has it changed your life?

9. Who had the biggest impact on me this year?

Who really made a difference in your life this year? It could be a family member, best friend, or stranger. What positive impact did they have on you? Did they stay by your side during a difficult time? Was it something they taught you? Something they accomplished? What qualities do they possess that makes them influential?

10. If I could describe the last year in one word, it would be…

You know how people pick a word for the year to set their intentions? What about choosing one to describe what your year was like? What’s the one word you’d use to describe the past year? Was it a year of transformations? Disappointments? Balance? What events made you choose that word?

11. What was my memorable experience of the year?

Let’s take a trip down memory lane. Don’t start planning for next year without taking a moment to appreciate what you accomplished this year. Do you have a favorite memory? It could be a special event, a trip, or reaching a milestone. What made this experience stand out? How did it affect you?

12. Looking back, what did I need more of?

Take a moment to think about what you wish you had more of in the past year. Was it self-care, a better relationship with God, financial stability, or time with family? Why is it important to you? How did it affect your well-being? And consider how you can get more of it the following year.

13. What did I procrastinate on this year??

Let’s face it—we’ve all procrastinated at some point—whether it’s because we’re scared, forgetful, or not in the mood. What have you been putting off? Maybe it’s starting a new routine or project. Or perhaps it’s making that important phone call or scheduling a doctor’s appointment. What held you back? Did fear, time management, or doubt come into play? Do you think it’s something you can take care of now?

14. How would I rate the year from 1 to 10?

Rate the passing year on a scale from 1 to 10. Consider all the joys, challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned when choosing your number. Did the year meet your expectations, or was it full of unexpected twists and turns? What could improve your rating?

15. What was my favorite thing this year?

What were your top picks for this year? Was it your favorite books that had you in your feels? Is your favorite TV show back with a new season? Is it the beauty of Autumn? Reflect on why these things are your favorites. How did they bring joy into your life?

16. What was my hardest month of the year?

We all deal with ups and downs. Was there a month that kicked your butt? Was there a particular event or situation that triggered it? Did everything go downhill from there? How did you deal with it? What lesson did you learn?

17. Write a letter to my future self

Our everyday routine can make us forget our dreams, goals, and achievements. Writing a letter to your future self will help you keep your hopes and memories alive. Write about your experiences, what lessons you’ve learned, and what goals you have for the upcoming year.

18. In what ways has God shown up in my life this year?

Did you feel God’s presence in your life this year? Were there specific moments that felt like divine interventions? Did you experience any miracles, big or small, that reinforced your faith? How have these experiences influenced your outlook, spiritual growth, and relationship with God?

19. How did I prioritize self-care this year?

How did you show up for yourself this year? Was there a better way to practice self-care ? Self-care is not just about the pampering sessions. It’s also about caring for your emotional, physical, and mental health. It’s about personal growth. Did you relax or work on your hobbies? Did you break an unhealthy habit?

20. What new routine did I try this year

Reflect on any new routines you have experimented with over the past year. Did you start a new morning routine? Or perhaps a new fitness program? What about your daily routine? Consider the impact these routines had on your life. Did you stick with them? Or was it a struggle?

21. What is one thing I want to leave in the passing year

Is there something from the past year you wish to leave behind? It could be a toxic relationship, a negative mindset, or an unhealthy habit. Or simply a challenging year. What’s the reason? What steps can you take? How will it benefit you in the future?

22. What is one thing I am looking forward to next year?

What excites you about the new year? Is it a major milestone? Perhaps it’s a trip you’ve been planning for years. Maybe it’s just the excitement of starting fresh. Describe how it makes you feel. How will your life change?

23. What new skills do I want to learn or improve in the new year?

What skills do you want to develop in the new year? It could be anything, from learning a new language, mastering a family recipe, or improving your writing skills. Consider all the ways this skill will benefit your life.

24. My top three priorities for the new year are…

It’s super easy to get carried away with goals or resolutions. Unfortunately, that can get quickly overwhelming. However, focusing on your top priorities can help you stay focused on the important things. It could be as simple as reading 20 books or as profound as starting a business. You can prioritize whatever you want as long as it matters to you.

25. What worries or fears do I have for the upcoming year?

As we look towards the future, it’s natural to have some fears and worries. What are you concerned about? Is it something you’ve been putting off? Perhaps it’s a fear of the unknown or stepping out of your comfort zone. You’re not alone in having these concerns. Writing them out can make you feel better. Think about how you will confront these fears and grow from them.

26. As I move into the new year, how do I wish to deepen my relationship with God?

Think about your spiritual growth and relationship with God. What spiritual practices do you want to change or add to your life? Perhaps it’s making time to read your bible, pray, or just listen to God.

27. How has my life changed compared to this time last year

Let’s travel back to this time last year? How have you changed? Think about any meaningful moments, achievements, or experiences. How have they shaped you along the way? Did they shift your perspectives, habits, or relationships?

Last Thoughts on End-of-Year Journal Prompts

Can’t wait for the new year? Let’s first celebrate the passing year. So, set goals and New Year’s resolutions, but remember to reflect on the current year.

And I hope these end-of-year journal prompts will help you.

Do you have any favorite journaling prompts for the end of the year? Share in the comments.

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End-of-Year Writing Prompts

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these were extremely helpful. Can’t wait to see how answering these will help improve my life.

88 Back to School Writing Prompts for the First Week

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I am struggling to write my first back to school post of the season! That means summer vacation is nearing the end.  But the start of a new school year is also an exciting season!  Today I have a set of 88  Back to School Writing Prompts to help you out during the first week of your new school year.  They are a great resource for the first day of school!

As the new school year approaches, it’s time to gear up for some fresh new lessons, a new classroom, and learning ideas. It’s difficult on teachers and on students to gear up to the work load of a new school year.

One nice way to ease children back into the school routine is through creative writing prompts. Writing prompts can be a fun way to inspire creativity, improve and refine writing skills, and make the transition back to school smooth and enjoyable. 

Back to School Writing Prompts

I have a several sets of back to school writing prompts for you in this printable for every grade level. There is a set of 20 writing prompts for elementary students. I have a set of 20 back to school writing prompts that will work well for both for middle school students and high school students. I also have a set of prompts tailored specifically to homeschool families!  

I’m sure that you’ll love adding this writing activity to your English language arts lesson plans for the beginning of the school year! They can help you and your class get back into the swing of things. Read on to learn how (& why) to use the Back to School Writing Prompts effectively!

Why You Should Use Writing Prompts:

• E ncourage Creativity: These prompts are a fantastic way to give kids a starting point with their writing. They can use their imagination and explore new ideas, or write a short story without the pressure of coming up with a topic from scratch.
• Enhance Writing Skills : Regular writing practice helps improve grammar, vocabulary, and overall writing proficiency. Writing prompts are the perfect way to provide structured practice in a fun and engaging way.
• Stimulate Critical Thinking : Writing about different topics encourages kids to think critically, organize their thoughts, and articulate their ideas clearly.
• Build Confidence: Completing a piece of writing gives children a sense of accomplishment, boosting their confidence and encouraging them to tackle more challenging tasks.
• G et to Know New Students: At the beginning of the year, these prompts are a great way to help you learn more about the students in your class! You can learn about their favorite hobby, their summer vacation, what she of their favorite things are, 

How to Use These Printable Writing Prompts:

You can cut these questions up into small strips for kids to draw from a bowl. Or choose one prompt for everyone to answer as a class.

• Daily Journals: Incorporate writing prompts into a daily journaling routine. Have a notebook designated to your daily writing.  This regular practice of journal prompts can help kids develop a habit of writing and improve their skills over time. Use different themed prompts through the months of the year. They can take them home at the end of the year and have a book full of memories!
• Class Discussions: Use prompts as a starting point for class discussions for the whole class or for small groups. Write the prompts on a whiteboard and let them spend some time on it. After writing, students can share their responses, helping them get to know one another better and maybe build a new friendship!
• Creative Projects: Use writing prompts as a starting point for larger writing projects. Encourage kids to expand on their prompt responses by turning them into short stories, a personal narrative, plays, or illustrated books.
• Homework Assignments: Assign writing prompts as part of homework to keep the writing practice going beyond the classroom.
• Incorporate Technology: For older kids, try using digital platforms or blogs where kids can post their prompt responses. This not only makes writing fun but also teaches them how to use technology responsibly.
• Morning Work or Writing Stations: Use these for independent work time with your students. When you need something to fill extra time or need a quiet activity for them to work on, incorporate some writing time! 

Download the Free Writing Prompts for Back to School Now!

This is a free PDF file.  Download it here. 

Back to School Writing Prompt Examples:

Here are a few examples of some of the writing prompts in this download. 

• Imagine your school year is transformed by magic. Describe the magical events that happen and how they change your everyday routine.
• You discover a time machine in your school. Write about where you go and what historical events or future scenarios you witness.

What is your favorite subject in school and why do you enjoy it?

  If your class could have any pet, what would it be and how would you take care of it?

Imagine your school bus could take you anywhere in the universe. Where would you go and what would you see?

What are three academic goals you have for this school year? How do you plan to achieve them?

Do you think schools should have uniforms? Why or why not? Provide reasons for your opinion.

How can learning about different cultures benefit kids your age?

Describe your homeschool learning environment. How does it help you focus and learn?

Incorporating writing prompts into your back-to-school routine can make the transition to school time smoother and more enjoyable for kids. There are so many great benefits. I hope you’ll enjoy using this free printable download. 

Happy writing and welcome back to school!

See More Creative Writing & Language Arts Ideas:

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Former school teacher turned homeschool mom of 4 kids. Loves creating awesome hands-on creative learning ideas to make learning engaging and memorable for all kids!

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50 Creative 3rd Grade Writing Prompts (Free Printable!)

Taking the leap from the primary level to the intermediate grades.

Third grade is a huge transitional year in elementary school. Third grade writers have learned foundational concepts and skills and have had time to practice. Now they are developing more complex skills as they dig deeper, learn to make connections, and analyze the topics they write about. Here are 50 third grade writing prompts to help your students master and refine their writing skills.

If you’d like even more upper elementary writing prompts, we publish new ones twice a week on our kid-friendly site: the Daily Classroom Hub . Make sure to bookmark the link!

(Want this entire set in one easy document? Get your free PowerPoint bundle by submitting your email here, so you’ll always have the prompts available!)

1. Tell about a special event in your life.

2. What are you best at?

3. What do you want to learn more about?

4. I could never live without______.

5. If you could go anyplace in the world, where would you go and why?

6. Interview one of your parents or grandparents and ask them to tell you a story from their childhood. Share their story here.

7. Describe one of your favorite book characters. Tell three things about their personality.

8. Do you think third graders should have to do chores at home? Why or why not?

9. What is something you would change about school if you could?

10. Tell about a time you helped somebody.

11. Tell about a time somebody helped you.

12. Tell about a memorable “first” in your life. For example, the first time you ate a particular kind of food, the first time you met your teacher, etc.

13. Describe step by step how to make a pizza.

14. What does it mean to be a hero?

15. I am afraid of _______ because_______.

16. What is the difference between being polite and rude? Give three examples.

17. What is the most important rule in the classroom?

18. What are the three most important qualities you look for in a friend?

19. Do you think kids should be assigned homework? Why or why not?

20. Nature gives us many beautiful things—plants, animals, water, weather, stars and planets, etc. What is one of your favorite things in nature and why?

21. If I were a spider, I’d _______.

22. Three things that make me happy are ______.

23. What is your favorite holiday and why?

24. Tell about one of your family’s unique traditions.

25. If you could have a pet, what would you choose? How would you take care of it?

26. Write about a dream you recently had.

27. Tell about a person that inspires you and why.

28. Name five things you are thankful for and why you are thankful for them.

29. What are ways you can be a good citizen?

30. When you and a friend disagree, how do you work it out?

31. What do you think the world will be like in one hundred years?

32. What is your favorite type of weather? Why?

33. What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

34. What famous person would you like to meet? Why?

35. In your opinion, which animal makes the best pet? Give three reasons for your answer.

36. If someone gave you $100, how would you spend it?

37. Should third graders have cell phones? Why or why not?

38. If you could be an Olympic athlete, what sport would you participate in?

39. Write about your “getting ready for school” routine.

40. Write about your “getting ready for bed” routine.

41. If you could travel through time like Jack and Annie in the Magic Tree House, where would you go?

42. In your opinion, what does a perfect weekend look like?

43. Write about the last time you felt really angry. What happened and how did it all work out?

44. Pretend there was a special zoo where animals could talk. Which animal would you talk to and what are three questions you would ask?

45. What is your favorite thing with wheels? Why?

46. Tell the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears from the point of view of Baby Bear.

47. What do you think would grow if you planted a magic bean?

48. Which would you rather be able to do—fly or read people’s minds? Why?

49. Tell about an adult in your life that you admire.

50. If you were traveling for a week and could only bring a backpack, what would you pack?

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Every teacher needs engaging activities to do with his or her students at the end of the year. If we don’t give them things to keep them busy, the little darlings might drive us crazy because they are so excited for the summer! However, we don’t just want to give them busy work. We want to give them quality assignments that will help reinforce what they have learned throughout the year, and possibly even be something they want to save to look back on one day.

That’s why I love using memory book writing prompts at the end of the year! They are fun and quality activities that keep my students engaged and working. Plus, the students really enjoy looking back on memories from their year. I have created a free resource with these types of writing prompts to help you get started. This post will also provide you with several more ideas for memory book writing prompts that you can use in your classroom.

#1 Good Citizen Moment

One activity your students can do is write about a “Good Citizen Moment” they had this year. Students will reflect on something nice they did for someone else, like helping a classmate with an assignment without being asked or playing with a new student on the playground. They should give details about what happened and explain how they felt during this moment.

#2 Funny Moment

The students can write about a funny moment they remember from class this year. They will include details about what was said or details about the events that took place that made them laugh. You can tell them their goal is to give the reader enough detail to make them laugh too!

#3 Favorite Field Trip

The students can write about their favorite field trip from the past year. They will tell when and where it took place, as well as details about things they saw and did there. They should also explain what they found interesting there or why it was their favorite field trip.

#4 Favorite Book

You could ask the students to write about their favorite book that they read this year. It could be a book that they read personally, a book from an assignment, or a book you read to them aloud. They should include the book’s title, author’s name, and explain what they liked about the book. Additional things they could do with this topic is write a summary of the book and include key details from it, or they could write about the book’s story elements such as its main character, setting, problem, and solution.

#5 Favorite Subject

Students can write about their favorite subject from your class. They should explain why it is their favorite, as well as give examples of the things they enjoyed learning in this subject. To be more specific, they could tell a story about their favorite lesson and what they learned from it. For example, they could write about a science experiment that they really enjoyed.

#6 Biggest Challenge

You could have your students think about the biggest challenge they faced this year and how they overcame it. It could be an academic challenge, such as struggling with a particular concept in math, or it could be a challenge in another area of their life. Maybe they overcame a behavioral, social, or emotional challenge. This assignment is great for helping them feel proud of their accomplishments!

#7 Summer Activities

Your students can write about things they plan to do in the coming summer. They should provide details about where they are going, who they will be with, and what they will be doing. They can also describe the feelings they are experiencing about whatever they plan to do, like being excited or nervous to go on a cruise, for example.

#8 Advice for a Future Class

The students can think about what it was like to be in your class this year. They should use their experiences to give good and helpful advice to your next class so they will have a successful year too. Examples of tips they might write are “Always tell Mrs. Smith the truth!” or “Make sure you read for 30 minutes every night.”

I hope these ideas will help you have plenty of engaging writing prompts for the end of the year, so your students will stay busy with something they will really enjoy!

To make it easier, I have created a ready-made End of the Year Memory Book resource that you can download here . It includes all of the ideas I mentioned in this post as well as many others. You can use the pages in the End of the Year Memory Book resource as separate activities, or you can put them together as a memory book that the students can take home at the end of the year.

After your students complete the memory books, they could even use the books to create keepsake videos for their parents.

I also have some free end of the year writing prompt pages that you can access by signing up for my free newsletter. You can download them as printables, or you can use the digital option that is in PowerPoint format. You can also easily upload the digital version to Google Classroom.

Click on the picture or here to sign-up for the free memory book!

Also, I have a free tech course that will help you get a simple three-step system in place with using either Microsoft for Education or Google Classroom. You can find out information and sign-up for that here .

Thanks for visiting The Candy Class blog. Happy teaching!

Jolene Mathew

On a Mission to Improve Literacy

     Literacy is my passion. I currently am focused on the science of reading with my creations. I have both a bachelor and master’s degree in elementary education with around 20 years experience in the educational field. I am grateful I get to wake up each day and create things that help children learn how to read. Make sure to sign-up for my newsletter to gain some of these creations.

-Jolene Mathew from  The Candy Class

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End of School Year Creative Writing Prompt #1: The Theme Park Trip

Inspire your learners' creative writing with this fun, end-of-school-year writing prompt! Using the prompt as a jumping off point, students are invited to write a creative story about a strange sight from atop the Ferris wheel while on a class trip to a local theme park. Writers are encouraged to include captivating characters, vivid descriptions, and a compelling plot with clear conflict and resolution to bring their fictional tale to life. Ideal for students in fourth through eighth grade, this imaginative writing prompt offers a fun and seasonal opportunity to practice creative writing and storytelling skills.

This worksheet can be used independently or completed alongside our other worksheets in this series:  End of School Year Creative Writing Prompt #2: The Backpack Bonanza and  End of School Year Creative Writing Prompt #3: The Mysterious Message .

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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. 

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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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The Joy of Teaching

Sharing creative ideas and lessons to help children learn.

Creative Writing Prompts for the End of the Year

May 15, 2017 by Evan-Moor | 0 comments

• Plan a picnic. Think about what you will eat and what games you will play. Make a list of things you will need.
• Finish this story: The waves crashed against the sand. I plopped my pack down and spread out my towel. It was going to be a wonderful day. Just then…
• Think about your favorite foods and then imagine a new flavor of ice cream that tastes just like them. What would you call your flavor? What would it look like? Write a slogan for it.
• Write a story about a door. Be sure to describe the door, tell where the door is, and explain what is on the other side of the door.
• Impossible. Think of something people thought was impossible that someone did. Think of something you did that you thought was impossible. Think of something that is impossible now but you believe might be possible in the future. Explain why. Write a story that shows how the impossible might be possible.
• Compare summer days and summer nights. Listen and list sounds on a summer day. Listen and list sounds on a summer night.
• Compare yourselves to an animal. Write how you are alike and different.
• Write a want ad for a good student (review examples of want ads).
• Pretend you are a spring flower just about to bloom. Describe the experience.
• Write a letter to your mother. Tell her why you love and appreciate her.

Get these ideas and more from Giant Write Every Day: Daily Writing Prompts !

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End of School Year Writing Prompts 2nd Grade: Reflect on Achievements

My name is Debbie, and I am passionate about developing a love for the written word and planting a seed that will grow into a powerful voice that can inspire many.

As the school year draws to a close, it’s only natural for second graders to reflect on all they have accomplished over the past months. From learning new skills to making new friends, the journey of education has been nothing short of remarkable. So, before these eager little minds embark on a well-deserved summer break, why not encourage them to put pen to paper and reflect on their achievements? In this article, we’ll explore some thought-provoking writing prompts designed to help second graders celebrate their triumphs, big and small, while honing their writing skills. Let’s inspire these budding young writers to ponder, reminisce, and proudly share their journey of growth and accomplishments!

Reflecting on Personal Growth and Accomplishments

Celebrating academic milestones: what have you learned, remembering special moments: highlights of the school year, recognizing personal achievements: how have you grown, expressing gratitude: teachers and friends who made a difference, setting future goals: what will you do next, frequently asked questions.

As we journey through life, it is important to periodically pause and reflect on our personal growth and accomplishments. Taking the time to look back on our journey allows us to appreciate the progress we have made, acknowledge our achievements, and identify areas where we can continue to grow. Reflecting on personal growth not only boosts our self-confidence, but it also helps us set new goals and stay motivated. Here are a few key points on why reflecting on personal growth is essential:

• Gaining self-awareness: Reflecting on our personal growth allows us to gain a deeper understanding of ourselves, our strengths, and our weaknesses. It helps us recognize patterns in our behavior and thought processes, enabling us to make positive changes and break free from negative habits.
• Recognizing accomplishments: Taking the time to reflect allows us to celebrate and acknowledge our achievements no matter how small they may seem. This boosts our self-esteem and cultivates a positive mindset, encouraging us to continue working towards our goals.

also helps us appreciate the journey rather than merely fixating on the destination. It allows us to realize that growth is a continuous process, and every step forward counts. So, take a moment to appreciate how far you have come, set new goals, and keep striving for personal growth!

As we commemorate our academic milestones, it’s crucial to reflect on the valuable lessons we’ve learned throughout our journey. Education is not just about memorizing facts and figures; it’s about gaining a deeper understanding of the world around us and developing essential skills that will help us navigate through life. Here are some key takeaways that many students discover during their academic pursuits:

• Time management: juggling coursework, extracurricular activities, and personal commitments has taught us the importance of effective time management. It’s essential to prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and maintain a healthy work-life balance .
• Independence and self-discipline: being responsible for our own learning requires discipline and independence. We’ve learned to take the initiative, stay motivated, and develop a strong work ethic.
• Critical thinking: education encourages us to question, analyze, and evaluate information from various sources. We’ve honed our critical thinking skills, enabling us to make informed decisions and approach challenges with a strategic mindset.
• Communication skills: collaborating with classmates, presenting findings, and engaging in discussions have improved our communication skills. We’ve learned to express ourselves effectively, listen actively, and work harmoniously in teams.

These are just a few examples of the invaluable lessons we’ve gained on our academic journey. From acquiring problem-solving abilities to fostering curiosity and adaptability, these milestones are not merely checkboxes to be ticked off but rather building blocks that shape us into well-rounded individuals prepared to contribute meaningfully to society. So, take this moment to celebrate your accomplishments and acknowledge the knowledge and skills you’ve acquired thus far! Your academic milestones are stepping stones to a brighter future!

As we bid farewell to another remarkable academic year, let’s take a trip down memory lane and relive some of the most cherished moments that made this year truly unforgettable. From heartwarming events to exhilarating achievements, here are the highlights that have left an indelible mark on our hearts:

• Extracurricular Excellence: Our students demonstrated their exceptional skills and talents outside the classroom. Whether it was the jaw-dropping theater performances that left us in awe, the rhythmic beats produced by the school band, or the captivating poetry recitals, our students truly took center stage and showcased their incredible passions.
• Sports Triumphs: The thrill of victory was evident throughout the year as our school athletes displayed their determination and sportsmanship on the playing field. From nail-biting basketball buzzer-beaters to exhilarating soccer matches that kept us on the edge of our seats, our athletes’ passion and hard work were undoubtedly matchless.
• Academic Excellency: Our students’ thirst for knowledge was quenched through various academic endeavors. From winning accolades in prestigious science competitions to organizing impactful community research projects, our students proved their dedication to learning and making a positive difference in the world around us.

Reflecting on personal achievements is an essential and empowering practice. It allows us to appreciate how far we’ve come, acknowledging the growth and progress we have made along the way. Celebrating our achievements not only boosts our self-confidence but also provides motivation to continue striving for new goals. When considering how you have grown, it’s crucial to explore both tangible accomplishments and personal development. Here are a few areas to consider:

• Expanded skill set: Take a moment to recognize the new skills you have acquired in recent times. Whether through formal education, training programs, or hands-on experience, pinpointing the specific skills you have honed can demonstrate your dedication and commitment to personal growth. These skills could be anything from a new programming language, improved communication techniques, or even learning to master a musical instrument.
• Overcoming challenges: Reflect on the hurdles you have overcome on your journey. Life is full of obstacles, and acknowledging your ability to face them head-on is a testament to your resilience. Whether it was a difficult project at work, a personal setback, or navigating a challenging relationship, taking stock of the challenges you have conquered highlights your ability to learn, adapt, and grow in the face of adversity.
• Expanded worldview: Consider how your perspective and understanding of the world have evolved. Perhaps you have traveled to new places, immersed yourself in different cultures, or engaged in meaningful conversations that broadened your horizons. By embracing new experiences and seeking diverse perspectives, you demonstrate an open-mindedness that fosters personal growth and deepens your connections with others.

Recognizing personal achievements and growth requires a willingness to acknowledge our own potential and the journey we have undertaken. Whether in tangible accomplishments or personal development, reflecting on our progress helps us build self-awareness, confidence, and resilience. Remember, personal growth is an ongoing process, and continuing to push ourselves outside our comfort zones will undoubtedly lead to even further achievements in the future.

Throughout our lives, we encounter remarkable individuals who leave a lasting impact on us. They inspire, motivate, and shape us into the people we become. Today, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude towards two groups of influential individuals who have made a significant difference in my life: my incredible teachers and my amazing friends.

• Ms. Thompson – My English teacher in high school, whose passion for literature ignited a love for reading in me that I will always cherish.
• Mr. Rodriguez – My math teacher in middle school, who had the remarkable ability to transform complex equations into engaging puzzles, keeping me enthusiastic about mathematics.
• Prof. Stevens – My college professor, whose unwavering support and belief in my abilities empowered me to pursue my dreams, even during challenging times.
• Sarah – My childhood friend, who has been there for me through thick and thin, offering unwavering support and understanding, even when life gets tough.
• John – A friend I met during my college years, whose endless optimism and zest for life never cease to inspire me to embrace every opportunity with enthusiasm.
• Lisa – A co-worker turned friend, whose kindness and compassion have shown me the true meaning of friendship, reminding me to always lend a helping hand to others.

These remarkable individuals have taught me countless life lessons, offered guidance in times of uncertainty, and provided a shoulder to lean on when needed most. Their impact is immeasurable, and for that, I am forever grateful.

Embarking on a journey to set future goals can be both exciting and daunting. Whether you’re a recent graduate or someone looking for a fresh start, taking the time to envision and plan for your future is crucial for personal growth. So, what will you do next?

1. Reflect on your passions: The first step in setting future goals is to delve into your passions and interests. Explore what truly excites you, what makes you feel alive, and what you can see yourself doing for the long haul. Take some time to reflect on your experiences, hobbies, and talents to identify your true passions.

2. Set actionable goals: While dreaming big is important, it is equally essential to break down those dreams into actionable goals. Start by setting short-term and long-term goals that align with your passions identified earlier. These goals should be specific, measurable, and achievable. Take it one step further and create a timeline for each goal to stay on track and hold yourself accountable.

Q: Why is it important for second graders to reflect on their achievements at the end of the school year? A: Reflecting on achievements allows second graders to recognize and celebrate their growth and progress throughout the school year. It boosts their self-confidence and self-esteem, while also encouraging a positive attitude towards future learning.

Q: How can reflecting on achievements help to motivate second graders? A: Reflecting on achievements helps second graders see how their hard work and effort pays off. It allows them to understand the value of setting goals and working towards them, which can motivate them to continue striving for success in the future.

Q: What are some writing prompts that second graders can use to reflect on their achievements? A: – Write about a new skill you learned this year and how it makes you feel. – Describe a challenging task you accomplished and how you overcame the obstacles. – Share a memorable moment or accomplishment that made you proud. – Reflect on how you have grown as a student throughout this school year.

Q: How can teachers make the reflection process more engaging for second graders? A: Teachers can make the reflection process more engaging for second graders by providing visual aids like photos or drawings that represent their achievements. They can also encourage students to share their reflections with their peers, promoting a sense of community and celebration among classmates.

Q: What are the potential benefits of reflecting on achievements for second graders? A: Reflecting on achievements helps second graders develop self-awareness and a sense of gratitude. It also promotes a positive attitude towards learning, and helps them recognize their strengths and areas for improvement.

Q: Can reflecting on achievements have any long-term impact on second graders? A: Yes, reflecting on achievements can have long-term impact on second graders. It helps them develop a growth mindset, where they understand that their abilities can improve with effort. This mindset can be beneficial as they continue their education and face new challenges in the future.

Q: How can parents support their second graders in reflecting on their achievements? A: Parents can engage in conversations with their children about their accomplishments and encourage them to reflect on their growth. They can also provide positive reinforcement and praise, helping their second graders recognize their hard work and success.

Q: Is reflection limited to academic achievements only? A: No, reflection is not limited to academic achievements only. Second graders can reflect on personal growth, social interactions, and other non-academic achievements as well. It’s important to recognize all areas of development and celebrate successes in various aspects of their lives.

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May 22, 2024 · Leave a Comment

End of School Year Creative Writing Activity

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Hey teacher friends!  Hopefully this year is wrapping up quickly (and quietly) for you!  I know it is a crazy time of year to say the least!

While you may already have finished up – or even have the rest of the year planned, if you are someone who still has some time left to fill, I just created a fun new activity that you can also easily recreate on your own!

As the school year comes to a close, it’s important to consider how to keep kids engaged and learning during the summer break.

One effective way to achieve this is by using end of school year worksheets that review and reinforce the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the year. These worksheets can cover a wide range of subjects, from math and language arts to science, social studies, art, music, physical education, and more.

By incorporating these worksheets into summer learning, parents and educators can help prevent the “summer slide” and ensure that students are ready to hit the ground running when the new school year begins.

Or just do an activity for “fun” that includes creative writing and drawing skills – yay!

Your students will love it, parents will get a chuckle, and you will think it’s hilarious {or NOT}!

End of Year Writing Prompts and Creative Writing Activities

Creative writing is a valuable tool for self-expression and language development. End of year writing prompts and creative writing activities can inspire kids to write during the summer by providing them with engaging and thought-provoking prompts.

These activities can include writing a short story, composing a poem, or keeping a journal of their summer experiences. By engaging in creative writing, students can enhance their writing skills and explore their creativity in new and exciting ways.

My Teacher’s Summer Break Book is a fun activity to wrap up the school year that doesn’t involve technology, outside activities, or cooperative learning groups.

I can see students coming up with sentences like:

• I think my teacher will read a book by the pool while doing laundry over Summer Break.
• I think my teacher will go to Disneyworld every day over Summer Break.
• I think my teacher will eat chocolate over Summer Break.
• I think my teacher will not wear shoes at all over Summer Break.
• I think my teacher will sleep the entire time over Summer Break.
• I think my teacher will be shopping for cake over Summer Break.

Last Days of School Book Activity

Of course, it’s really easy to recreate your own template if you don’t want to use the one I have provided. Choices are the best!

Here is how to make your own:

1.  Grab some blank paper, pass out to the students.

2.  Ask them to write the following sentence:  “I think my teacher ____________ over summer break.”

3.  Have them fill in the blank with their own answer.

4.  Draw and color in a matching image on the rest of the paper.

When all students have finished, either scan the pages and use for an end of the year slideshow or just share and send home.  If you choose to scan the papers, make sure to save the hard copies and bind together for a memento of your own of this year’s class!  Fun!

End of the year staff appreciation gifts for the specials teachers, office, cafeteria, or custodial staff

You could have each student do the specific templates you choose and then bind them together to give to the staff member who is mentioned on that template – or take pictures of those particularly memorable and then bind the rest for the students to take home as a gift for the end of the year!

The choice is up to you, but either way, I am sure the responses will certainly bring on some chuckles!

Math Review Worksheets to Keep Skills Sharp

Math is a subject that requires continuous practice to maintain proficiency. Over the summer, it’s easy for kids to forget the math skills they’ve learned during the school year. That’s why math review worksheets are essential for keeping these skills sharp.

These worksheets can cover a variety of topics, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and fractions.

For example, a worksheet might include a series of addition and subtraction problems that gradually increase in difficulty, or a set of multiplication and division problems that require students to use their knowledge of times tables. By regularly practicing these skills, students can prevent learning loss and be better prepared for the next grade level.

Science and Social Studies Worksheets for Summer Learning

Science and social studies are subjects that provide valuable knowledge about the world around us. To continue exploring these topics during the summer, worksheets can cover a wide range of subjects, including animals, plants, geography, and history.

For example, a science worksheet might include questions about the life cycle of a butterfly, while a social studies worksheet might ask students to identify different countries on a map. By engaging with these subjects over the summer, students can expand their knowledge and develop a deeper understanding of the world.

Fun and Engaging Art and Music Worksheets for the End of School Year

Art and music are essential for fostering creativity and self-expression. End of school year art and music worksheets can include drawing prompts that encourage students to explore different artistic techniques, music theory exercises that teach the fundamentals of rhythm and melody, and art history activities that introduce students to famous artists and their work. By incorporating these worksheets into summer learning, students can continue to develop their artistic and musical abilities while having fun and expressing themselves in new and exciting ways.

Physical Education and Health Worksheets to Stay Active and Healthy

Staying active and healthy is important for overall well-being, and summer is the perfect time to focus on physical education and health.

Worksheets can promote exercise, nutrition, and wellness by including activities such as creating a weekly exercise plan, tracking daily physical activity, and learning about the importance of eating a balanced diet. By engaging with these worksheets, students can develop healthy habits that will benefit them for years to come.

End of Year Reflection and Goal Setting Worksheets

Reflecting on the past school year and setting goals for the summer and upcoming school year is a valuable exercise for students. Reflection and goal setting worksheets can encourage self-assessment and planning by prompting students to think about their achievements, challenges, and aspirations.

By setting goals for the summer, such as reading a certain number of books or learning a new skill, students can stay motivated and focused on their personal and academic growth.

Summer Reading Lists and Comprehension Worksheets

Summer reading is essential for preventing the “summer slide” and improving literacy skills.

To support this, parents and educators can provide recommended summer reading lists for different age groups, along with comprehension worksheets that accompany the books.

These worksheets can include questions that test students’ understanding of the text, as well as activities that encourage critical thinking and analysis. By engaging with these materials, students can develop a love for reading and improve their comprehension skills.

STEM Activities to Keep Kids Engaged and Learning

STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) activities are essential for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. End of school year STEM activities and worksheets can cover a wide range of topics, including coding, engineering challenges, and scientific experiments.

For example, a coding activity might ask students to create a simple computer program, while an engineering challenge might require them to build a structure using only toothpicks and marshmallows. By engaging with these activities, students can continue to develop their STEM skills and explore new and exciting concepts.

End of Year Celebrations and Memory Making Worksheets

Celebrating the end of the school year and creating lasting memories is an important part of the summer experience. End of year celebration activities and memory making worksheets can include creating a memory book that highlights favorite moments from the school year, reflecting on personal achievements, and setting intentions for the upcoming summer. By engaging in these activities, students can celebrate their accomplishments and look forward to new experiences in the months ahead.

Whether it’s math, language arts, science, art, music, physical education, or any other subject, there are endless opportunities for students to explore, learn, and grow during the summer months. I encourage parents and educators to utilize these worksheets to provide a fun and enriching summer learning experience for students of all ages.

Need a freebie page to get things rolling? Grab it below!

Have fun and enjoy the end of the school year without getting too crazed!

This post originally appeared at Organized Classroom .

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About Charity Preston

A teacher, mom, wife. Featured in Scholastic Instructor Magazine, NEA, TeachHub, and Edutopia, Charity has over a half million fans and followers all over the world. A former K-6 gifted intervention specialist, she has built and managed over 20 educational related websites since 2011, and collaborated with high profile companies, such as eBay, ASCD, and Pinterest. Charity is the CEO of PEN Group Online, Inc. where she has taught her classroom and teacherpreneur business development systems to thousands of fans and members.

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25 Back to School Writing Prompts for Elementary Kids

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Back to school isn’t simply an exciting time of year, it’s a terrific theme for writing. Get your elementary students writing with these 25 back-to-school prompts. 

25 Back to School Writing Prompts for Elementary Students

If you want to become a great writer, you need to practice writing. These age-appropriate back-to-school writing prompts for elementary kids will inspire your kids to put pen to paper.

SAVE TIME! GRAB THE ELEMENTARY BACK TO SCHOOL WRITING PROMPTS IN DIGITAL AND PRINT FORMAT HERE!

Back to School Writing Prompts for Lower Elementary

Elementary students in the early grades are not ready to write long stories or detailed paragraphs. They need to focus on getting their ideas from brain to paper. That begins with a sentence. For young learners or those who need a little extra help with writing, they can simply finish the sentence. If they want to write more, add a second or third sentence.

My favorite school supply is…

Everyone likes starting the school year with new school supplies. What is your favorite? A fresh box of crayons? New stories to read? A really cool backpack? 

On the first day of school, I want to…

What is something you’d like to do on the first day? Do you want to learn something new, go outside, eat a special snack, or read an exciting book?

My favorite color crayon is…

Everyone has their favorite color. Look through a box of crayons and select your favorite color.

My favorite school subject is ____ because…

What is your favorite school subject and why?

This year I want to learn about…

What is something you’d like to learn about this year? Do you want to learn about an animal, an event from history, or a famous person?

This year I would like to…

Do you want to try something new this year? Maybe you want to learn to play an instrument or draw your favorite animal. Pick a goal or skill you’d like to accomplish this year.

My favorite stories are about…

What type of stories do you enjoy? Do you like books about magical creatures, animals, Star Wars, or real life?

If I invented a school subject, it would be…

What new subject would you like to have in school? It could be anything from making slime to laser tag to learning about seahorses.

The week before school, I went to…

Imagine that you took a last-minute trip before the start of school. It could be to a real or imagined place. Did you travel to see your grandma, the North Pole, Mars, or Michigan?

Inside my lunch was…

Imagine you sat down to eat your lunch and something unexpected was there. What was it? It could be a type of food or something totally wild!

If I went to animal school it would be…

Imagine that you are a type of talking animal and had to go to school. What would your school name be? Dolphin School? Lion Academy? Unicorn University?

I went outside for PE when…

What happened when you did some exercise on the first day of school? Did you step on a porcupine? Did you see the Millenium Falcon? It could be ridiculous or unexpected!

Back to School Writing Prompts for Upper Elementary

These back-to-school writing prompts for upper elementary could be the start of a paragraph if you wish.

The ultimate first day of school lunch…

Design your menu for the first day of school lunch. Make it ultra-delicious and exciting!

When I walk in the library, I see…

Back to school always means back to the library. What are the sights, sounds, and smells of the library?

Three of my favorite things about back to school are…

What do you like about back to school? Do you get to see your friends more? Do you like to learn about science or art? Is it that you can take field trips? Name three of your favorite things.

My favorite book is ___ because…

Everyone has his or her favorite book. What is yours and why?

If I wrote a movie script about school, it would be…

What would your school movie be about? What would you title it?

My favorite school breakfast is…

What is the best breakfast to start your day?

When I opened my _____ book, I saw…

Imagine that one of your school books is magical, and when you open it, whatever is inside comes to life. Which book is it? What happens when you open it?

The weirdest field trip I have ever been on was…

Imagine you went on a very strange field trip. Where did you go? What made it so unusual?  Give the details!

My school is called ____.

Design a school where kids receive training in something unusual. Is it an archery school? A school for bakers? A scuba diving school? A school for those who can become invisible or transform into an animal? What would you call it? What would it be about?

Roses are red, violets are blue…

Take the standard poem starter and complete it with 2 lines and a rhyming word related to school. For example, “Roses are red / violets are blue / 11 plus 11 / Makes 22”

SCHOOL acrostic poem

Write the letters S-C-H-O-O-L vertically on a piece of paper. Then create a poem where each line begins with a letter from the word. For example, “Summer is over / Can it be one more week? / How about two? / Okay, it’s back to school / Only this time can / Lunch be a subject? ”

When I took the alien to school, it…

Imagine that you wake up one morning to find a friendly alien perched on the end of your bed. It wants to know everything about school here on earth. You promise to show it around. What do you do? How does it react?

Make a Simile

Compare two things that are very different from each other but have something in common. For example, “Books rustle like leaves,” or “The pencils are sharp like needles.”  Pick one of the following school words and write your own comparison using the word “like.”

• Children’s voices

Back to School Writings Prompts 

With these 25 back-to-school writing prompts, your students will definitely start the year with something to write about. Get the creative juices flowing with these 25 writing prompts that will motivate your elementary students to write! 

You May Also Like:

• {Free} Getting to Know You Worksheet for Back to School
• 35 Fall Board Ideas: Awesome Bulletin Board Ideas for Back to School and Fall
• Establishing a Back to School Routine

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• Courses & Classes

24 Journaling Prompts for End-of-Year Reflection

In December, I usually run an Advent Calendar, with a daily journaling prompt sent out between the 1st and 24th of the month. For various reasons (mainly that life is very full!), I decided not to do this year. Quite a few people have been asking about it though, so I want to share some journaling prompts for self-reflection at the end of the year. It’s not the same as a daily email, but I hope it helps you reflect on the year that was 2020 (including some of the better bits…) and set a few intentions for next year 🙂

Respond to them all, pick and choose the ones that resonate with you—whatever works!

1. What were your personal highlights from each month of this year?

2. What are you most proud of from this year?

3. What was one thing that surprised you this year?

4. What did you learn about yourself this year?

5. What strengths did you show this year?

6. What challenged you this year?

7. How did you rise to the occasion this year?

8. What were your favourite books from this year?

9. What was your favourite music from this year?

10. What memorable TV shows or movies did you watch this year?

11. What was something you started doing this year?

12. What was something you stopped doing (or stopped doing as much)?

13. How do you want to feel next year?

14. What new things do you want to try next year?

15. “If I could do this one thing next year, I would be really proud of myself…”

16. What qualities do you want to embody next year?

17. What is the number one thing that would have a positive impact on your life if you started doing it next year?

18. What is one thing you want to stop doing next year?

19. Your word or phrase for 2021:

20. “If I were to show up with 10% more self-acceptance next year, I would do this differently:”

21. What are you looking forward to next year?

22. Who do you want to spend more time with next year?

23. How can you take care of yourself next year?

24. Imagine it’s a year from now. As you look back at 2021, what stands out? How did you show up? What did you experience? How did you feel?

Bonus prompt:

25. What is the kindest thing you can do for yourself today?

P.S. If you would like more prompts like these, you can find a prompt for every day of the year in my bestselling book The Year of You: 365 Journal Writing Prompts for Creative Self-Discovery . Available as an ebook through all major ebook retailers, and on paperback through Amazon and to order through your local bookshop. Perfect as a gift—for yourself or others 🙂

Further Reading...

Journaling: Getting in the Zone

Episode 44: restorative journaling with esmé weijun wang.

Identifying and Changing Life Patterns

"this is our first pandemic.", 2021 personal growth reading challenge.

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Create Unforgettable Memories with our Caption Generator

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Are you looking for the perfect captions to encapsulate the end of the school year on Instagram? Look no further! This article contains over 100 Instagram caption examples to help you celebrate the end of the school year in style. Whether you're feeling nostalgic, proud, or simply excited for the summer ahead, there's a caption here for every mood. Read on for 10 different types of captions to suit your Instagram posts!

Before browsing our handpicked captions, generate your own creative end-of-year messages with our Instagram captions generator , perfect for capturing the essence of your school year finale.

Whether it's bidding farewell to school days, celebrating achievements, or looking forward to new horizons, these 100+ captions capture the essence of the end of the school year perfectly. From reflective moments to future plans, there's a caption for every end-of-school-year post on Instagram. Let these captions help you express your emotions and celebrate this remarkable chapter in your life!

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100+ Instagram Captions for End of School Year

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End of The Year, Summer Writing Prompts - 2024, Crafts&Activities, Summer Crafts

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Transition smoothly from end-of-year farewells to summer creativity with our Summer Writing Craft & Creative Prompts! Solve the challenge of keeping minds engaged during the break with our inspiring activities. Bid adieu to the school year while welcoming a summer filled with storytelling, crafting, and boundless imagination. Say hello to endless adventures and unforgettable memories with our captivating writing journey!

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• 10 pages of Craft - Writing Prompts (Students Can cut all sheets and Write on it)

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