Here are 36 writing prompts for a grade 9 student to use over the course of 36 weeks:
Week 1:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a descriptive paragraph about your favorite place in nature. Use vivid language to paint a picture for the reader.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could invent a new holiday. Write a persuasive essay explaining why this holiday should be celebrated and how it would benefit people.
Writing Prompt 3: Choose a historical figure you admire and write a biographical sketch detailing their life, achievements, and impact on society.
Week 2:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a short story that begins with the line, “It was a dark and stormy night…” Be sure to build suspense and create a sense of mystery.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a persuasive letter to your school principal proposing a change or improvement you would like to see in your school.
Writing Prompt 3: Choose an important social issue and write an argumentative essay discussing its causes, consequences, and possible solutions.
Week 3:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a personal reflection on a time when you faced a significant challenge. Describe how you overcame it and what you learned from the experience.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a book you have recently read and write a book review, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the story and your overall recommendation.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a letter to your future self, describing where you see yourself in five years and what steps you will take to achieve your goals.
Week 4:
Writing Prompt 1: Research a career that interests you and write a persuasive essay explaining why it would be a good fit for you. Include details about the required skills, education, and potential benefits.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a narrative poem based on a myth or legend from any culture. Use descriptive language and imagery to bring the story to life.
Writing Prompt 3: Imagine you are a character in your favorite book. Write a journal entry from the perspective of that character, discussing their thoughts and emotions during a significant event in the story.
Week 5:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a compare and contrast essay discussing the advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city versus a small town.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a current event from the news and write an opinion piece expressing your viewpoint on the issue. Support your arguments with facts and examples.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short play script involving two characters who find themselves in a challenging situation. Focus on dialogue and character development.
Week 6:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a descriptive essay about a piece of artwork that inspires you. Analyze its visual elements and discuss the emotions it evokes.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could travel back in time to any historical event. Write a narrative recounting your experience and describing the impact of that event.
Writing Prompt 3: Choose a controversial topic and write a persuasive speech defending your position. Use rhetorical devices to make your arguments more compelling.
Week 7:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a letter to a future generation, discussing the current environmental challenges and proposing solutions to ensure a sustainable future.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could have any superpower for a day. Write a creative story describing how you would use that power and the adventures you would have.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a research paper on a scientific discovery or innovation that has had a significant impact on society. Explain its importance and potential future implications.
Week 8:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a personal narrative recounting a memorable vacation or trip. Describe the sights, sounds, and experiences you had during your journey.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a famous quote and write a reflective essay on its meaning and relevance in your own life.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story set in a dystopian future where technology controls every aspect of people’s lives. Explore the consequences and challenges faced by the characters.
Week 9:
Writing Prompt 1: Research a cultural tradition or celebration from a different country and write an informative essay explaining its significance and customs.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a persuasive letter to a local business owner suggesting ways they can become more environmentally friendly and socially responsible.
Writing Prompt 3: Create a fictional character and write a character sketch describing their appearance, personality, and motivations.
Week 10:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a reflective essay on a person who has had a significant influence on your life. Explain why they are important to you and how they have shaped your perspective.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a controversial topic in the field of science and write an argumentative essay presenting evidence to support your viewpoint.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a poem that captures the essence of a particular season. Use descriptive language to evoke the sights, sounds, and emotions associated with that season.
Week 11:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a letter to your future self, describing the person you aspire to become and the steps you will take to achieve your goals.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a historical event and write a news article reporting on the event as it happened. Use journalistic style and include quotes from witnesses or participants.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story that explores the theme of forgiveness. Create compelling characters and a meaningful resolution to the conflict.
Week 12:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive essay arguing for or against the use of social media among teenagers. Consider the potential benefits and drawbacks.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could interview a famous person, either from the past or present. Write a transcript of the interview, asking insightful questions and capturing their responses.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a poem inspired by a piece of music. Explore the emotions and imagery evoked by the music through your words.
Week 13:
Writing Prompt 1: Choose a work of literature you have read and write a literary analysis essay discussing its themes, symbols, and the author’s message.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a personal reflection on a time when you had to make a difficult decision. Discuss the factors that influenced your choice and the outcome.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story set in a post-apocalyptic world. Explore the challenges faced by the characters and the possibilities for rebuilding society.
Week 14:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a letter to a public figure or organization expressing your opinion on an issue that is important to you. Use persuasive language and provide supporting evidence.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a descriptive essay about a memorable event in your life. Use sensory details to bring the experience to life for the reader.
Writing Prompt 3: Choose a work of art or literature that has been influential in shaping society and write an analysis of its impact and enduring relevance.
Week 15:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive speech advocating for the importance of arts education in schools. Present arguments and evidence to support your viewpoint.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you woke up one morning and discovered you could communicate with animals. Write a story about your adventures and the lessons you learned.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a research paper on a historical figure or event that is often overlooked or misunderstood. Shed light on their contributions and significance.
Week 16:
Writing Prompt 1: Choose a controversial topic related to ethics or morality and write an argumentative essay exploring different perspectives and their justifications.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a poem inspired by a natural phenomenon, such as a sunset, storm, or waterfall. Use vivid imagery and figurative language to capture its beauty.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story that takes place in a future where robots have become an integral part of everyday life. Explore the ethical implications and challenges faced by humans.
Week 17:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a personal narrative about a time when you had to overcome a fear or phobia. Describe the experience and how it changed you.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a controversial topic in politics and write a persuasive essay arguing your position. Support your arguments with evidence and logical reasoning.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a letter to your favorite author, expressing your appreciation for their work and asking them questions about their writing process.
Week 18:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a short play script that explores a social issue, such as bullying, discrimination, or peer pressure. Create engaging dialogue and meaningful interactions between characters.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could have a conversation with a historical figure. Write a dialogue between yourself and that person, discussing their achievements and their impact on society.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a reflective essay on a meaningful lesson you have learned from a mistake or failure. Discuss how it has influenced your growth and decision-making.
Week 19:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive essay arguing for or against the use of technology in education. Consider the advantages and disadvantages, as well as potential alternatives.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a current social issue, such as climate change or inequality, and write an opinion piece expressing your viewpoint. Use logical arguments and supporting evidence.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story that explores the theme of identity. Create a character who grapples with questions of self-discovery and acceptance.
Week 20:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a letter to your future self, outlining your goals and aspirations for the next five years. Reflect on what you hope to achieve and the steps you will take to get there.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a work of literature or film and write a comparative analysis, exploring its themes, characters, and storytelling techniques.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a poem inspired by a social or environmental issue that is important to you. Use poetic devices to convey your message effectively.
Week 21:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a personal narrative about a significant cultural or religious celebration you have participated in. Describe the traditions, rituals, and emotions associated with the event.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could travel to any country in the world. Write a persuasive essay explaining why you would choose that particular destination and what you hope to learn from the experience.
Writing Prompt 3: Choose a scientific concept or theory and write an explanatory essay that breaks down complex ideas into simple terms. Use examples to illustrate your points.
Week 22:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a letter to a local newspaper expressing your opinion on an issue affecting your community. Offer suggestions for improvement and propose solutions.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a fictional story set in a futuristic world where climate change has drastically altered the environment. Explore the challenges faced by the characters and the possibilities for survival.
Writing Prompt 3: Choose a historical event and write a diary entry from the perspective of someone who lived through it. Capture the emotions, thoughts, and observations of that time.
Week 23:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive speech advocating for the importance of mental health awareness and destigmatization. Present statistics, personal anecdotes, and strategies for promoting well-being.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a work of art or literature that challenges societal norms or conventions. Write a critical analysis discussing its impact and the reactions it has elicited.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story that explores the theme of friendship. Create believable characters and depict the complexities of their relationships.
Week 24:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a personal reflection on a meaningful experience you had while volunteering or helping others. Discuss how it impacted your perspective and the lessons you learned.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a scientific phenomenon, such as gravity or photosynthesis, and write an informative essay explaining its principles and significance.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a poem that captures the beauty of nature and its importance in our lives. Use vivid imagery and sensory details to evoke a connection with the natural world.
Week 25:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive essay arguing for or against the use of animals in scientific research. Present ethical considerations and alternative approaches to experimentation.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could be any fictional character for a day. Write a creative story describing the adventures you would have and the lessons you would learn.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a reflective essay on a book or movie that has influenced your perspective on life. Discuss how it has shaped your values and beliefs.
Week 26:
Writing Prompt 1: Research a global issue, such as poverty or climate change, and write an argumentative essay discussing the causes, consequences, and possible solutions.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a poem that explores the theme of love in its various forms—romantic, platonic, familial, or self-love. Use imagery and figurative language to convey different aspects of this universal emotion.
Writing Prompt 3: Choose a work of literature and write an alternate ending to the story. Explain how your ending diverges from the original and the implications it has for the characters.
Week 27:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive speech addressing the importance of cultural diversity and inclusivity in society. Discuss the benefits of embracing different cultures and the consequences of discrimination.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a historical figure and write a fictional dialogue between that person and a contemporary individual. Explore the similarities and differences in their perspectives.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story set in a utopian society where equality and harmony prevail. Examine the challenges faced by the characters in maintaining this ideal world.
Week 28:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a personal narrative about a significant life event that changed your perspective or shaped your identity. Reflect on how it has influenced your values and goals.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a scientific discovery or technological advancement and write an expository essay explaining its impact on society and potential future applications.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a poem that celebrates the beauty and resilience of the human spirit. Explore themes of hope, perseverance, and triumph over adversity.
Week 29:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive essay arguing for or against the use of standardized testing in education. Discuss its benefits and drawbacks, as well as alternative assessment methods.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could have a conversation with a character from a book or movie. Write a dialogue that explores their motivations, struggles, and growth throughout the story.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a descriptive essay about a cultural landmark or monument that you find fascinating. Describe its historical and cultural significance, as well as its architectural features.
Week 30:
Writing Prompt 1: Research a global issue related to human rights and write an argumentative essay discussing its causes, impacts, and potential solutions.
Writing Prompt 2: Write a personal reflection on a time when you had to confront a personal bias or prejudice. Discuss how it changed your perspective and what you learned from the experience.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story that explores the theme of identity and belonging. Create characters who navigate cultural or social identities and the challenges they face.
Week 31:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a letter to your future self, outlining your goals and aspirations for the next ten years. Reflect on the steps you will take to achieve them and the person you hope to become.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a work of literature or film and write a critical analysis, examining its themes, symbols, and underlying messages.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a poem inspired by a social or political issue that you are passionate about. Use poetic devices to convey your emotions and advocate for change.
Week 32:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive speech advocating for the importance of financial literacy and responsible money management skills. Discuss the benefits of financial education for individuals and society.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a historical event and write a fictional diary entry from the perspective of someone who witnessed it. Capture the thoughts, emotions, and reactions of the time.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story that explores the theme of resilience in the face of adversity. Create a character who overcomes challenges and emerges stronger.
Week 33:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive essay arguing for or against the use of technology in the classroom. Discuss its potential benefits and drawbacks for students’ learning and development.
Writing Prompt 2: Imagine you could time travel to any historical period. Write a narrative recounting your experiences and observations during that time.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a poem that reflects on the passage of time and the fleeting nature of life. Use imagery and metaphor to convey the beauty and transience of existence.
Week 34:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a personal reflection on a time when you had to make a difficult ethical decision. Discuss the factors that influenced your choice and the lessons you learned from it.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a contemporary social issue and write an argumentative essay discussing its causes, consequences, and potential solutions. Present logical arguments supported by evidence.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story that explores the theme of transformation and personal growth. Create characters who undergo significant changes and learn valuable lessons.
Week 35:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a persuasive speech advocating for the preservation of the natural environment and sustainable practices. Present arguments and evidence for taking action against environmental degradation.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a work of art and write a critical analysis discussing its artistic techniques, symbolism, and impact on the viewer.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a personal narrative about a time when you had to step outside your comfort zone. Reflect on the challenges you faced and the lessons you learned from the experience.
Week 36:
Writing Prompt 1: Write a letter to your younger self, offering advice and insights based on what you have learned so far in life. Reflect on your growth and the wisdom you would share.
Writing Prompt 2: Choose a significant event in history and write a news article reporting on it as it happened. Use journalistic style and incorporate quotes from eyewitnesses or historical figures.
Writing Prompt 3: Write a short story set in a futuristic world where artificial intelligence has become self-aware. Explore the ethical dilemmas and consequences of AI consciousness.