Here, you’ll find a collection of writing prompts– some that we’ve used in class, and others we haven’t!  This is not an assignment page, just a place to turn if you’re stuck

  • Find a strange or complicated image and pick one small section and write about it in as much concrete, significant detail as possible. (set a timer for 8 mins).  You might not know yet what is significant– that’s okay!! We usually get to figuring out what’s significant during revision. Just find something to focus on and try to describe it. It’s okay if you write something that’s not perfect. Just keep writing till the timer runs out.
  • Pick a noun (stairs, car, monster, windows, desks, chairs, beds, etc) and write a very quick list of those things you remember or the first that come to mind. Circle the one that is most vivid to you. Imagine the scene and describe it in Concrete, Significant Detail. This video will guide you through. 
  • Write a letter (or epistolary poem) to your favorite superhero/ historical figure. You could also write to an historical figure whose actions completely bewilder you.
  • Start with a phrase like “maybe this poem is titled” or “here’s what I remember,” (or “here’s what I forgot,”)  write it on the page and continue the sentence. Every time you get stuck, write the phrase again. This exercise was developed by Gabrielle Ralambo-Rajerison from the poem “Working Title” by Mahogony L. Browne.