This is a unit of work created for an after-school creative writing club (two-hour sessions), but it could be adapted into class lessons. This has been modifed over several years, and works pretty well. Please note: some of the examples are (for what it is worth) my own - so don't remove that credit if you are adapting this material. The 'website' mentioned was created using weebly.com - not the only free website creator available, just the one I use. I've got a pro account, so can add audio and video files. I have done this in a couple of schools, but can't make them generally available (safe-guarding); however, I am happy to respond to questions in the comments if you'd like some more info on how to do it (really easy, honest).

A five-lesson activity in which students create a "treasure hunt" around the school campus, learning the skills of writing clear directions.

This is a self-contained unit (5-6 lessons plus homework as needed). Can be taught, but makes a great Off-For-A-Week cover, or holiday homework, with able students. Introduces students to a variety of narrative genres, with a range of activities. The peer-review section between drafts can lead to some interesting discussions. I created it originally for an IGCSE class, but have used variations on the basic pattern with classes in Years 7-13. The Ten-Sentence story examples are (for what they are worth) © to me. Please comment (positive or negative). And I'd be happy to see some of the resulting stories you get using this (esp. the ten-sentence stories)

These are worksheet for writing ten-sentence stories using the Freytag structure. Eight have picture prompts (all images are copyright free from pexels.com) and one has some starter sentences. The files have 'consequences' in the name as that was the way I last used it. Works with any age group. Please note: the example stories are copyright to me.

OK, the first task IS the usual "write a letter to me introducing yourself" - but the rest of the tasks allow the students to consider a range of things which enable them to write about themselves in an interesting way. I had one student a couple of year ago write, and speak, very movingly about what her passport represented as part of her Korean identity for the "This Old Thing?"prompt. I usually talk about the significance of my wedding ring as an object of no great monetary value, but of huge symbolic value . I have used it in this format with Yr 12 (when I have expected students to write on at least 5-6 of the prompts over a week) and in modified formats with Yrs7-11. PLEASE NOTE: this is intended to be a "taught" unit, with plenty of discussion, and not a drop-on-the-desk worksheet. I have had some great responses, as students think about who they are, and how they present themselves to the world. I would be happy to hear about/read anything especially successful which comes from this.

This is a five-lesson project - good for end-of-term, or as a extra-curricular activity (when it could last five weeks!) Aimed at Yr7-8. In small groups students plan a brand new community on a previously uninhabited island just off the coast of ... wherever you feel like; I chose Suffolk. The final outcome will be a booklet explaining each group’s ideas, built up of pages they will be writing over the week of lessons (plus homework research). Each member of the group will: produce one individual piece of writing, collaborate on one other, and collaborate to create a map. This will test: Their ability to plan and organise work collaboratively Their research skills, and their ability to “select, organise, and emphasise facts, ideas, and key points” from what they have read Their ability to plan and write clear and informative non-fiction prose “using language creatively, imaginatively, and persuasively, including using rhetorical devices”.

Just a little bit of fun to help you keep your sanity when it seems like you are the only one who thinks the exams should be run properly. One card for internal exams, and one for external exams. Reward yourself for any four-in-a-row with a little treat, and a special meal out if you get all sixteen. Actually, budget for that now - you'll be surprised how quickly it can fill up. Or sad, it might make you sad.

As it says, fifty original (ish) sentences, which can be used to start or finish a short story. It can be fun to give two randomly chosen sentences to students, and get them to write the story that connects the two. Would like to hear about/read any especially successful results.

On behalf of the World Imaginary Creatures Conservation Society (WICCS) students create a physical tri-fold leaflet on to persuade the public to act in the conservation of a creature which they invent - which could be a lesson in itself. An invented creature makes them think more, but to differentiate for less-able students you could allow them a dragon or a unicorn. An extension task can be to film a PSA based on the leaflet. They use informative and descriptive writing to introduce the creature in detail, explain why it is ecologically valuable, and explain why it is in danger; and persuasive writing to tell the readers what to do in order to help save it from extinction. I have added some links to conservation websites to help with ideas for content and layout. The Word document can be given out as is, with students simply deleting my placeholder content with their own. Would love to see successful results.