We’ve gathered five fun creative writing activities you can assign to spark a love for writing. Our hope is that these activities will create a workshop-like environment that fosters feedback and collaboration in your writing classroom.
You’ll notice that none of the activities focuses on the technical aspects of writing. Instead, the activities encourage creativity, reflection, and self-expression—hallmarks of meaningful writing.
Minilesson 1: InstaMemory
- Imagine a favorite memory as a cellphone picture.
- Finish this sentence starter: My memory snapshot shows . . .
- Keep writing until you’ve described your memory snapshot in full. Make sure to include who is in it, what is happening, where it is happening, and when it is happening. Note colors, emotions, facial expressions, and other visual details about the moment.
- Read your memory snapshot. Does your writing create a clear picture?
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Minilesson 2: Back-and-Forth Stories
Writing back-and-forth stories takes a little creativity and a lot of flexibility. How long can you and a partner keep this story going?
An abandoned home sat at the top of the hill. Matt and Brianna knew the rumors about it, but they had to see it for themselves. They tiptoed their way up the steps, and when they reached the door, it swung open. Inside . . .
- Continue the story. Write for two minutes.
- Pass the story to a writing partner.
- The partner continues the story where you left off and writes for two minutes before passing the story back.
- Continue writing and passing the story every two minutes.
- How long can you keep the story going? What happens inside the house?
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Minilesson 3: Four-Star Food Review
- List the food items that would make up your ideal fall meal. Include one main dish, one side dish, one dessert, and one drink.
- Describe the looks, smells, and tastes associated with the meal.
- Finish this sentence: My meal reminds me of fall, because . . .
- Use the details you’ve collected to write a review of your meal in one or two paragraphs. Exchange your review with a partner to see how your meals compare.
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Minilesson 4: Now how do I get out of this one?
- List ten chores or tasks you hate doing. Cleaning my room is an example of a chore you might not like.
- Select four tasks from your list and write a creative excuse explaining why you can’t or haven’t completed each one. Make your excuses as original and wild as possible.
- When you’ve finished, exchange your work with a classmate. Read and discuss each other’s excuses.
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Minilesson 5: Diary of a Famous Figure
- List three famous people or characters you like or admire.
- Imagine you are one of the famous figures from your list.
- As that person, think of what you would do on a summer day.
- Write a diary entry (or blog post) about your special day as the famous person.
- Then write additional entries as you so choose.
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Want more creative writing ideas? Check out these creative activities.