Building Writers

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Story Prompts

Here’s a set of creative writing prompts that have been highly effective with my students. Here’s the protocol I follow: Worksheet: Whisper in the Library Worksheet: My Trip to Paris Worksheet: The Sea Monster Worksheet: The Time Traveler Worksheet: The Whispering Manor Worksheet: What Happened to the Missing Artifacts? Worksheet: Maya the Coder Worksheet: Write a Story About Aliens! Worksheet: The Missing Shoe Worksheet: Write the Story of Emily Collins Worksheet: The Pursuit of a

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Idea Champion!

I am always looking to give students genuine praise. Seeing the best in kids, and identifying their strengths can be motivating and empowering. One way to encourage students is by recognizing creative, clever, insightful, and unique ideas. Not every student is a great reader or writer (not yet, anyways)–but that doesn’t mean they don’t possess great ideas. Here is an activity I am starting with each of my classes. Once a week I will identify

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Use “Bruh” in a Story!

Here is a fun writing contest idea: Use “bruh” in a story. I tell my students that I want creative ideas and clear writing. I also invite silly ideas. Many of my middle school students love being silly, and this activity builds on that desire. If time permits, I have students read each other’s stories and vote for an “idea champion.” Here are some certificates you can use: https://briantolentino.com/idea-champion/ You can find more WRITING PROMPTS

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Write TWO Introduction Paragraphs for Your Essay!

When we write, our best ideas often come slowly. We don’t always get things right the first time. This is why it is beneficial to take “multiple shots” at a writing task. For the following activity, you need to write TWO different introduction paragraphs for your essay. The goal is to take “multiple shots” at the same task. When you are finished, be ready share your introduction paragraphs with classmates. They will vote on the

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