There are so many possibilities when it comes to writing prompt examples. The same prompt can be presented in a variety of ways. Will you use calendars, choice boards, worksheets, journal strips, cards, or digital prompts? Read on to learn more about each type of example and how to best utilize it in the classroom.
Also check out the blog post, What are Writing Prompts? It goes more in-depth about the basics of writing prompts including benefits, importance, and the different types.
Ideas for Writing Prompts
Before we get into each of the writing prompt examples, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, decide how the writing prompts will be created. The teacher creates most prompts, but students can come up with them as well. And let’s face it, sometimes kids come up with better examples than we ever could. They tend to be more relevant and interesting to the students.
After the writing prompts have been created, decide how they will be assigned. Some teachers like to assign the prompts while others let students choose. This will vary depending on the type of prompt, the assignment, and students’ abilities.
Calendars and Choice Boards
Calendars and choice boards structurally look the same. The main difference is a calendar includes dates, while a choice board does not. Both examples can be projected on the board, glued in a notebook, laminated for a center, or sent as homework. Refer to the chart and information below for other important differences.
Calendars
Writing prompt calendars will include dates and/or days of the week. In the example below, there is a number two in the box to represent the writing prompt for September 2nd. The teacher assigns the prompts in advance, therefore students are not given a choice. Since everyone is answering the same prompt, it’s easier to keep track of assignments and assess them.
Choice Boards
Choice boards look similar to calendars except they don’t have any dates. They can be used year after year without changes. In this version, students can choose which prompt to write about. The flexibility is appealing to kids but requires more organization from the teacher. Each student will be answering a different prompt so it’s helpful to have a system to keep track of assignments when assessing.
The September board below uses the same prompts as the calendar but without dates. Click the picture to download the free sample. It includes 20 different prompts in three easy versions. Choose from a choice board, journal strips, or digital prompts.
Worksheets
Worksheets are another popular option for writing prompts. The prompt goes on top and can be used with a picture box and lines or just lines. Worksheets are easily modified depending on the grade level and students’ abilities. Differentiate with a word bank, larger picture box, or wider spaced lines.
Worksheets provide the lines to answer the prompt without extra paper or a notebook. This makes it easy for the teacher to collect and assess. Worksheets can be left in a basket for morning work, put in folders during center time, or sent as a homework assignment. They are very versatile and simple to use.
Paper Strips & Cards
Paper strips and cards look similar, but the main difference is how they are used. Strips are glued in a writing notebook for written responses. Cards can be laminated and used for verbal responses. Check out the chart and information below for more similarities and differences.
Paper Strips
Another name for paper strips is journal strips. These are long thin rectangular strips of paper that fit at the top of a writing notebook. Students can cut out the prompt, glue it in a lined notebook, and write their response. Teachers can also hand out pre-cut strips to save time.
Cards
Cards are similar to strips except it’s a shorter box shape. These work best for verbal responses. Students can respond to prompts with a partner, during a reading group, or one-on-one with the teacher as an assessment. Cards are also helpful to differentiate instruction for students with writing difficulties.
Digital Prompts
Digital prompts help build computer skills and prepare students for computerized testing. It also comes in handy for distance learning. Plus some students just prefer to type and may find digital prompts more engaging. Another advantage is that teachers can check responses easily on the computer and provide immediate feedback. Project prompts on the board for morning work, centers, or writing time.
Choosing a Writing Prompt Example
Now that you know the 6 types of writing prompts, it’s time to choose the best one. Start by choosing the prompt that is easiest to implement in the classroom right away and most helpful for students. Then when the class is able to utilize them effectively, introduce a new type. In the end, there will be a mix of the different types of prompts so students can get the most benefit.
Which one will you choose? Comment below to let me know.
- Calendars
- Choice Boards
- Worksheets
- Journal Strips
- Cards
- Digital Prompts
Remember to grab your Free Writing Prompt Guide. This valuable resource will give you everything you need to know about writing prompts. They are ideal for morning work, writing time, centers, and homework. Click the link above to get started.
Writing Prompt Resources
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