narrative essay writing prompts for high school

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50 Engaging Narrative Essay Topics for High Schoolers

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What’s Covered:

Narrative essays vs. analytical essays, how to pick the right narrative essay topic, elements of a strong narrative essay, engaging narrative essay topics for high schoolers, where to get your narrative essay edited for free.

Narrative essays are an extensive form of writing that gives readers the opportunity to follow along as a person goes through a journey or sets of experiences. Rather than providing analytic insight, narrative essays simply share a story and offer a first-person account. These essays may seem easy to write at first, but it takes a certain finesse to write a narrative essay that is interesting, cohesive, and well-researched. Whether you’re looking for a unique topic to write about, or just want some new inspiration, CollegeVine is here to help! These 50 narrative essay topics are engaging, unique and will have you writing in no time.

A narrative essay is a great way to express your personal experiences and opinions, but it is important to remember that this type of essay is different from an analytical paper. In a narrative essay, you do not need to provide background information or explain your thoughts and feelings; instead, you simply tell a story. It’s important to avoid too much telling in your writing; instead, use creative details and vivid imagery to make readers feel as if they are actually right there with you.

Where You Will Encounter Narrative Essays

This type of essay is typically encountered in high school, where students may be required to write personal statements to prepare for their Common App essay . Narrative essays are also commonly seen in AP Language and Composition. Therefore, it’s important you are aware of the style because you are bound to have a narrative essay assignment.  

Of course, before you start writing, it is important to pick the right essay topic. There are many factors involved in the process of picking the perfect narrative essay topic for your story.

You should always choose a topic that you are passionate about, since writing on something you care about will make the process much easier. Not only will it be more interesting to create your paper around something that truly interests you, but it will also allow you to fully express yourself in your essay. You also want to be sure that the topic has enough material to work with. If your chosen topic is too short, you will not have enough content to write a complete paper. For example, if you are writing about your experience getting lost at the mall, make sure that you have enough information to work with to craft an engaging narrative. 

The best topic for an engaging narrative essay is one that focuses on showing versus telling, has a clear structure, and provides a dialogue. These elements come together to form an engaging narrative essay. Regardless of what subject you pick, any topic may be turned into a fascinating, A+ worthy narrative using the tips below.

Show, Don’t Tell

To write a good narrative essay, it’s important to show, not tell. Instead of simply informing your audience, show them what you mean. For example, instead of saying “I was nervous,” you could say “My heart began to race and my stomach filled with butterflies.” Also make sure to use sensory details, such as sights, sounds and tastes, and include a personal reflection at the end of your narrative. 

Begin with a Strong Opening Line

A good narrative essay will begin with an attention-grabbing opening line. But make sure to avoid common clichés, such as “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Instead, come up with something original and specific to you and your situation. For example: “My pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles. I mean, he even used circular note cards.” Or, “It all started the day my mom brought home a guinea pig.”

Follows a Three-Act Structure

A strong narrative essay follows the same three-act structure as other essays. But in order to make it interesting, you’ll need to come up with a creative way to break things down into sections. For example, using the guinea pig example from above, you could write the following:

• Act 1 – Introduction: The day my mom brought home a guinea pig.
• Act 2 – Conflict: The day I had to say goodbye to my beloved pet.
• Act 3 – Conclusion: Looking back at how much I miss him now that he’s gone.

Conclude with Personal Reflection

To conclude your narrative essay, you’ll want to explain what this specific experience taught you or how you’ve changed. For example, upon realizing that her pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles, the writer of the previous example begins to notice circular shapes everywhere. Another way to conclude your narrative essay is by touching on how this experience impacted you emotionally. For example, after losing his guinea pig, the writer explains how much he missed it.

Use Dialogue

Include a conversation in your essay to make it come alive. For example, instead of simply saying that you met a new friend, talk about how you introduced yourselves or what they were wearing when you met them.

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The following list of 50 narrative essay topics is divided into categories. This will make it easier to find a topic that fits your writing style.

1. What is a childhood song that still sticks with you today?

2. Your first day of Kindergarten

3. Talk about a time when you’re siblings looked up to you

4. Describe the best birthday party you’ve ever had

5. Talk about the best day you ever spent with a childhood friend

6. Explain your first childhood hobby

7. Describe your first halloween costume

8. A family vacation gone wrong

9. Your first family reunion

10. Describe a tradition that is unique to your family

11. Describe your family to a person who’s never met them before

12. What frustrates you most about your family

13. If you could only keep one memory of your family, what would it be and why?

14. Describe a time your family embarrassed you in public

15. The most beautiful place in the world

16. Your favorite season and why

17. If you were a part of nature, what element would you be? Why?

18. When you go outside, which of your senses are you most thankful to have?

19. Describe the first time you witnessed a tornado 

20. Write a poem about your favorite season

21. Describe yourself as one of the four seasons

22. Describe a time in which you felt connected with nature

23. Describe the first time you played an instrument and how you felt

24. What major event would be much worse if music was removed, and why?

25. If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

26. What would a life without music look like?

27. If you could master one instrument, what would it be and why?

Relationships

28. What if you had never met your best friend?

29. Describe a time when you fixed a broken relationship

30. Talk about a movie that defined a relationship for you

31. Describe your first date

32. Describe the first time you made a friend

33. Describe your relationship with your parents

Self Reflection

34. Have you ever fooled someone? If so, describe what happened and how you felt about it

35. What is the worst thing you’ve done to someone else?

36. Write about the difference between how things seem and how they really are. 

37. Have you ever been embarrassed in some way? If so, describe the situation and how it affected you as well as those around you

38. Have you ever witnessed something really beautiful? Describe it

39. Is your glass half empty or half full?

Overcoming Adversity 

40. Have you ever been very afraid of something but tried your hardest to appear fearless? If so, describe that experience

41. When have you ever succeeded when you thought you might fail

42. What are your secret survival strategies?

43. Describe the last time you were stressed and why?

44. Describe a time when you were discriminated against

45. The most memorable class you’ve had and why

46. Your favorite study abroad memory

47. Describe your kindergarten classroom

48. Describe your first teacher

49. The first time you experienced detention

50. Your first field trip

Hopefully these topics will get you thinking about a personal experience that could make for a thoughtful and engaging narrative essay. Remember, a strong narrative essay must contain relatable details and a clear flow that keeps the reader entertained and engaged to read all the way to the end.

If you need some additional guidance on your narrative essay, use CollegeVine’s free peer review essay tool to get feedback for free!

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Student Opinion

525 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing

Questions that invite students to write about themselves, their lives and their beliefs.

By The Learning Network

Updated with 80 new prompts from the 2022-23 school year!

We’ve been posting fresh writing prompts every school day for over a decade now, and every so often we create a themed collection like this one to help you find what you need all in one place.

Below, we’ve rounded up 525 evergreen questions to encourage you to write about your life. They cover everything from family, friendships and growing up to gender, spirituality, money, school and more. (They’re also all available here as a clickable PDF .)

We hope they’ll inspire you, whether you’re entering our related 100-Word Personal Narrative Contest this fall, or just want to improve your writing skills. Like all our Student Opinion questions , each links to a related Times article, which is free to read if you access it from our site.

So dive in and pick the questions that motivate you to tell an interesting story, describe a memorable event, observe the details in your world, imagine a possibility, or reflect on who you are and what you believe.

Overcoming Adversity

1. How Mentally Tough Are You? 2. What Is the Bravest Thing You’ve Ever Done? 3. When Have You Made the Best of a Difficult Situation? 4. How Have You Gotten Over Disappointment? 5. How Do You Get Over Rejection? 6. How Do You Deal With Self-Doubt? 7. How Resilient Are You? 8. What Do You Gain From Pursuing Something You Do Really, Really Badly? 9. How Do You Handle Fear? 10. Are You Too Hard on Yourself? 11. How Do You Silence Your Inner Critic? 12. Have You Ever Experienced ‘Impostor Syndrome’? 13. Have You Ever Benefited From Rejection? 14. Do You Give Yourself Enough Credit for Your Own Successes? 15. How Do You Overcome Your Fears? 16. Stress, Worry and Anxiety Are All Different. How Do You Cope With Each? 17. How Do You Cope With Grief? 18. How Do You Make Hard Decisions? 19. Have You Ever Quit Something? 20. Have You Ever Felt as if You Didn’t Belong? 21. When Has Starting Over Worked for You? 22. When Have You Reinvented Yourself? 23. Do You Find It Hard to Let Other People Help You? 24. Have You Ever Felt Like an Outsider? 25. Do You Appreciate When Celebrities Share Their Struggles? 26. Have You Ever Worried About Making a Good First Impression? 27. Have You Ever Felt Pressure to ‘Sell Your Pain’?

Your Personality

28. Are You an Optimist or a Pessimist? 29. How Competitive Are You? 30. Do You Like Spending Time Alone? 31. Are You a Good Person? 32. Are You a Perfectionist? 33. Do You Hold Grudges? 34. Do You Seek Out New Experiences? Or Stick With the Things You Know and Love? 35. How Do You Express Yourself Creatively? 36. What Animal Are You Most Like? 37. Are You a Patient Person? 38. Are You a Worrier? 39. Are You a Risk-Taker? 40. How Do You Handle Boredom? 41. How Well Do Rewards and Incentives Work to Motivate You? 42. How Good Are You at Judging Your Own Talents? 43. Are You a Procrastinator? 44. Do You Suffer From ‘Task Paralysis’? 45. Do You Feel Joy at Others’ Success? 46. What Role Does Envy Play in Your Life? 47. How Do You Like to Be Comforted When You Are Sad? 48. How Easy — or Hard — Is It for You to Say No When You Want To? 49. Are You More of a Leader or a Follower? 50. How Well Do You Read Other People? 51. Are You Good at Giving Gifts? 52. Do You Complain Too Much, Too Little or Just the Right Amount? 53. How Would You Rate Your Listening Skills and Those of the People Around You? 54. Do You Prefer to Dwell in the Past, Live in the Present or Dream of the Future? 55. What Makes You Cringe? 56. What Disgusts You? 57. Are You Easily Distracted? 58. How Punctual Are You? 59. Are You a Good Conversationalist? 60. How Emotionally Intelligent Are You? 61. Are You an Orchid, a Tulip or a Dandelion?

Hobbies & Interests

62. What Are Your Hobbies? 63. What Is Your Passion? 64. How Do You Spend Your Downtime? 65. How Do You Have Fun? 66. What Would You Choose to Do If You Had Unlimited Free Time and No Restrictions? 67. What Activities Make You Feel Most Alive? 68. What Big Project Do You Hope to Accomplish Someday? 69. What Work, Sport or Pastime Do You Like to Do at Night? 70. What Seemingly Mundane Feats Have You Accomplished? 71. What Have You Made This Year? 72. What Do You Collect? 73. Which Fandoms Are You In? 74. What Competition Do You Think You Could Win? 75. What Is Something You Want to Try, Even Though Others Might Think It’s Weird? 76. Are There Activities You Used to Love That Are Now So Competitive They’re Not Fun Anymore? 77. What Would You Recommend That Is ‘Overlooked and Underappreciated’? 78. What New Innovations and Discoveries in STEM Intrigue You?

79. What Are the Little Rituals That Keep You Going? 80. What Are Your Best Life Hacks? 81. What Ordinary Moments Would You Include in a Video About Your Life? 82. What Habits Do You Have, and Have You Ever Tried to Change Them? 83. Do You Wish You Had a Different Morning Routine? 84. Does Your Life Ever Feel Too Busy? 85. How Can You Tell a Story About Your Life Right Now Through a Few Simple Numbers? 86. What Is Your Secret to a Happy Life? 87. What’s Your Sunday Routine? 88. What Slang Words Do You Use? 89. How Often Do You Treat Yourself to Something Special? 90. How Often Do You Just ‘Hang Out’ With Others? 91. What Are You Grateful For? 92. Where Do You Find Peace and Quiet? 93. Do You Spend Enough Time With Other People? 94. Do You Talk to Yourself? 95. Is Clutter a Problem in Your Life? 96. How Do You Remember What You Need to Remember? 97. When and For What Reasons Do You Seek Silence? 98. How Do You Greet Your Friends and Family? 99. What Is the Most Wholesome Thing You’ve Seen Lately?

Home & Community

100. Who Are the ‘Characters’ That Make Your Town Interesting? 101. If You Made a Mixtape for Your Hometown, What Sounds and Songs Would You Include? 102. What Do the Types of Dogs in Your Neighborhood Say About Where You Live? 103. What Are Your Hometown’s Shortcomings? 104. Do You Have a Favorite Local Hangout? 105. After Home and School, Where Do You Find the Strongest Feeling of Community? 106. What Grievances Do You Have With Your Local Community? 107. Who in Your Community Might Be Interesting to Interview? 108. What Role Do Parks Play in Your Life? 109. What Role Do Trees Play in Your Neighborhood? 110. How Diverse Is Your Community? 111. How Do You Come Together With Your Community? 112. What Is Unique About Your Hometown? 113. What’s Your Favorite Local Business? 114. Do You Wish You Had the Go-to House? 115. Do You Think You Might Like Communal Living When You’re an Adult? 116. Do You Have Enough Access to Places Where You Can Play and Exercise? 117. What Do the Objects in Your Home Say About You?

118. How Do You Define ‘Family’? 119. Who Is in Your Chosen Family? 120. How Well Do You Get Along With Your Siblings? 121. How Well Do Your Parents Deal With Sibling Conflicts? 122. Do You Have a Family Motto or Creed? 123. How Much Do You Know About Your Family’s History? 124. Where Would You Visit To Find Out More About Your Family’s Past? 125. What Is a Meaningful Family Relationship That You Have? 126. What Is Your Relationship Like With Your Grandparents and Elders? 127. Do You Have Any Family Heirlooms?

Parents & Parenting

128. How Involved Are Your Parents in Your Life? 129. How Similar Are You to the Adults Who Raised You? 130. Do You Push Your Parents’ Buttons? 131. How Do You Get What You Want From Your Parents? 132. Do Your Parents Yell at You? 133. What Advice Do You Have for Teenagers and Their Parents? 134. Are You Conforming to or Rebelling Against Your Parents’ Wishes for You? 135. Do Your Parents Spy on You? 136. Do You Turn to Your Parents for Advice? 137. How Do You Connect With Your Parents? 138. Do Your Parents Overpraise You? 139. Have You Ever Felt Embarrassed by Your Parents? 140. Who Cooks, Cleans and Takes Care of the Kids in Your Family? 141. What Kind of Time Management Skills Are You Learning from the Adults in Your Life? 142. Are Your Parents Addicted to Their Phones?

Role Models

143. What Role Have Mentors Played in Your Life? 144. Whom Do You Turn to for Good Advice? 145. What Can We Learn From Older Adults? 146. What Does the World Need to Know About an Important Person in Your Life? 147. Who’s Your ‘Outsider Role Model’? 148. What Does Dr. King’s Legacy Mean to You? 149. Who Do You Turn To in a Crisis? 150. Who Is Someone You Would Like to Thank? 151. Have You Ever Written Fan Mail? If Not, Would You? 152. How Have You Coped With the Death of an Idol?

Childhood Memories

153. What Is Your Earliest Memory? 154. What Things Remind You of Your Childhood? 155. What Childhood Rules Did You Break? 156. What’s the Craziest Thing You Did as a Kid? 157. What Magic Did You Believe In as a Child? 158. What Is the Most Memorable Thing You Have Ever Lost or Found? 159. Have You Ever Given, or Received, a Perfect Gift? 160. What’s the Best Party You’ve Ever Been To? 161. What Smells Trigger Powerful Memories for You? 162. What Is Your ‘Good Luck Charm’? 163. What Objects Bring You Comfort?

164. What Is It Like to Be a Teenager Now? 165. What Is the Best Thing About Being Your Age? 166. What Do Older Generations Misunderstand About Teenagers Today? 167. What Rites of Passage Mark the Transition to Adulthood in Your Community? 168. How Important to You Is Being Able to Drive? 169. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 170. Do You Hate When Adults Ask You What You Want to Be When You Grow Up? 171. Have You Ever Felt Pressured by Family or Others in Making an Important Decision About Your Future? 172. Do You Have ‘Emerging Adult’ Skills? 173. How Long Do You Hope to Live at Home? 174. What Letter of Inspiration Would You Write to Your Younger Self? 175. What Have You Learned From a Younger Person — and What Have You Taught An Older Person? 176. Have You Ever Helped an Adult? 177. When — if Ever — Do You Call Adults by Their First Names? 178. What Advice Do You Have for Younger Students? 179. Are You Optimistic About the Future? 180. Do You Want to Have Children Someday? 181. Do You Look Forward to Old Age? 182. What Legacy Do You Want to Leave Behind? 183. What Do You Want to Be Known for After Your Death?

Morality & Ethics

184. Have You Ever Taken a Stand That Isolated You From Your Peers? 185. What Acts of Kindness Have You Witnessed or Participated In? 186. How Good Are You at Apologizing? 187. Do You Ever Laugh at the Misfortune of Others? 188. When Have You Either Forgiven Someone or Been Forgiven Yourself? 189. Has Forgiving Someone Ever Made You Feel Better? 190. What Is the Code You Live By? 191. Have You Ever Been Surprised by an Act of Generosity?

Race, Ethnicity, Gender & Sexuality

192. What Cultural Traditions Are Important to You? 193. How Do You Connect to Your Heritage? 194. What Role Does Your Family’s Native Tongue Play in Your Life? 195. How Does Your Identity Inform Your Political Beliefs and Values? 196. How Much Racism Do You Face in Your Daily Life? 197. What Is Your Gender Identity? 198. Do You Feel Constricted by Gender Norms? 199. Have You Ever Been Told You Couldn’t Do Something Because of Your Gender? 200. What Messages About Gender Have You Gotten From Music? 201. How Do You Feel About Being Told to Smile? 202. What Has Your Sex Education Been Like? 203. How Do You Respond When People Ask, ‘Where Are You From?’ 204. What Does Your Accent Say About Who You Are?

Money & Social Class

205. What Are Your Expectations About Earning, Saving and Spending Money? 206. What Choices Do You Make About Money Every Day? 207. How Do You Get and Spend Money? 208. Have You Ever Tried to Make Money Online? 209. How Much Financial Help Do You Expect From Your Parents in the Future? 210. Do You Get an Allowance? 211. How Much Has Your ZIP Code Determined Your Opportunities? 212. What Has Television Taught You About Social Class?

Religion, Spirituality & Beliefs

213. What Role Does Religion Play in Your Life? 214. How Often Do You Start Conversations about Faith or Spirituality? 215. What Do You Think Are the Secrets to Happiness? 216. What Legends and Myths Do You Believe In? 217. Do You Believe in Astrology? 218. Do You Believe in Manifesting? 219. What Are Your Experiences With Meditation? 220. How Important Is Mindfulness to Your Daily Life? 221. How Do You View Death? 222. We Document Life’s Milestones. How Should We Document Death? 223. Do You Believe in Ghosts?

Technology & the Internet

224. How Are You Using A.I.? 225. What Old Technology Do You Think Is Cool? 226. What Don’t Adults Understand About Teenage Life Online? 227. What Online Communities Do You Participate In? 228. Could You Go a Year Without a Smartphone? 229. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 230. How Much of Your Day is Voluntarily Spent Screen-Free? 231. How Would Your Life Be Different if You Didn’t Have Wi-Fi and Cellular Service? 232. Where Do You Go to Find Cool, Strange or Fascinating Information on the Internet? 233. Does the Future of Robots Get You Excited, or Fill You With Dread? 234. Do You Worry About Your Digital Privacy? 235. Do You Feel Safer When You Know You’re Being Watched? 236. Do You Leave Funny Comments Online? 237. Have You Experienced Any Embarrassing Zoom Mishaps? 238. Have You Ever Encountered Racist or Extremist Content Online? 239. How Do You Know if What You Read Online Is True? 240. How Much Do You Trust Online Reviews?

Social Media

241. How Much of Your Life Do You Share Online? 242. Do Social Media and Smartphones Make Your Friendships Stronger? 243. Are You the Same Person on Social Media as You Are in Real Life? 244. What Does TikTok Mean to You? 245. Who Is Your Favorite Social Media Star? 246. Would You Want to Be a Social Media Star? 247. Do the Adults in Your Life Follow You on Social Media? 248. Have You Ever Gone to a Place for the Primary Purpose of Taking Selfies? 249. Would You Want to Live and Breathe Creating Content for Social Media? 250. Do You Feel You’re Friends With Celebrities or Influencers You Follow Online? 251. What Role Does Instagram Play in Your Life? 252. How Does Social Media Affect Your Mental Health? 253. Does Social Media Affect Your Body Image? 254. Which Emoji Do You Use the Most? 255. Do You Ever Ignore Text Messages?

Music & Podcasts

256. What Music Are You Listening to Right Now? 257. Who Was Your Favorite Musical Artist This Year? 258. What Songs Explain You? 259. What Is Your Favorite Musical Instrument? 260. What Songs Matter to You Now? 261. What Was Your First Concert? 262. Which Celebrity Performer Would You Like to Challenge to a Friendly Battle? 263. What Would You Name Your Band? 264. Do You Listen to Podcasts? 265. If You Could Make Your Own Podcast, What Would It Be About?

Movies, TV & Video Games

266. What Have You Learned About Life From Watching Movies? 267. What Is Your Favorite Sports Movie? 268. What Are Your Favorite TV Shows? 269. Who Is Your Favorite Actor? 270. What’s in Your Queue? 271. What Is Your Favorite Memory of PBS? 272. How Do You Feel About Spoilers? 273. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 274. Are You a Fan of Rom-Coms? 275. Do You Like Horror? 276. What’s Your Favorite Video Game Ever? 277. What Classic Video Games Do You Still Enjoy Playing? 278. What Video Games Would You Like to See Adapted for Film or TV? 279. Are You a Fortnite Addict? 280. Do You Gamify Your Life?

Books & Reading

281. What Role Have Books Played in Your Life? 282. What Books Do You Think Every Teenager Should Read? 283. Do You See Yourself in the Books You Read? 284. Has a Novel Ever Helped You Understand Yourself or Your World Better? 285. What’s the Best Book You Ever Read for School? 286. What Book Would You Add to the High School Curriculum? 287. How Do You Find New Books, Music, Movies or Television Shows? 288. What Have You Learned from Comics? 289. What Role Does Poetry Play in Your Life? 290. Do You Like Romance Stories? 291. What Is the Scariest Story You Have Ever Heard? 292. Have You Ever Read a Book You Weren’t Supposed to Read? 293. What Children’s Books Have Had the Biggest Impact on You? 294. Where Is Your Favorite Place to Read? 295. What Role Do Libraries Play in Your Life?

296. What Purpose Does Writing Serve in Your Life? 297. Do You Keep a Journal? 298. What’s Your Favorite Word? 299. What’s Your Favorite Punctuation Mark? 300. Do You Read or Write Poetry? 301. Do You Love Writing or Receiving Letters? 302. What Do You Want to Investigate? 303. What Would You Write a Book About? 304. What Would You Write in a Letter to the Editor? 305. If You Had a Column in The New York Times, What Would You Write About?

306. What Movies, Shows, Books, Music, Games or Other Works Have Made a Strong Impression on You? 307. What Work of Art Has Changed Your Life? 308. Who Is Your Favorite Visual Artist? What Is Your Favorite Work of Art? 309. Which Photograph Stays In Your Memory? 310. What Would You Like to Learn to Make by Hand? 311. Are You Intimidated by Classical Music and Art? 312. Do You Love to Dance? 313. Have You Ever Performed for an Audience or Shared Creative Work With Others? 314. What Show Do You Wish Your School Would Stage? 315. How Would You Design Your Ideal Museum? 316. What Broadway Show Would You Most Like to See? 317. What Are the Most Memorable Works of Visual Art You’ve Ever Seen? 318. What Could You Read, Listen to or Watch to Stretch Your Cultural Imagination? 319. How Often Do You Read, Watch or Listen to Things Outside of Your Comfort Zone?

320. How Did You Grow and Change This School Year? 321. Do You Like School? 322. What Motivates You to Learn? 323. Would You Want to Go to a School Like This One? 324. What ‘Pop-Up’ Classes Do You Wish Your School Offered? 325. How Is What You Are Studying in School Relevant to Your Life and the Larger World? 326. Do You See the Point in Learning Math? 327. How Much Do You Speak Up in School? 328. How Diverse Is Your School? 329. Is Your School a Safe Learning Space? 330. How Comfortably Can You Speak Your Mind at School? 331. Are You Able to Be Your Whole Self at School? 332. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 333. How Have You Learned About Slavery? 334. How Much Have You Learned About Black History? 335. Has a School Assignment or Activity Ever Made You Uncomfortable? 336. Are You Stressed About School? 337. How Good Are You at Handling Challenging School Work? 338. Do You Need a Homework Therapist? 339. What Are You Doing to Change Your School? 340. What Are Your Thoughts on Riding the School Bus? 341. Is the Diversity of Your School Accurately Reflected in Its Promotional Materials? 342. How Have Your Teachers Shaped Who You Are? 343. Does Your Teacher’s Identity Affect Your Learning? 344. Has a Teacher Ever Changed Your Mind-Set? 345. Would You Want to Be a Teacher Someday? 346. What Have Been Your Experiences With Substitute Teachers?

347. How Prepared Are You For College? How Well Do You Think You’ll Do? 348. What Worries You Most About the College Admissions Process? 349. How Much of Your Real Self Have You Revealed on Applications? 350. What Worries Do You Have About College? 351. Do You Intend to Study Abroad While You Are in College? 352. Are You Worried About the Rising Cost of Attending College? 353. Do You Talk to Your Family About the Cost of College? 354. Do You Want Your Parents to Live Nearby When You Go to College? 355. What Specialty College Would You Create?

Work & Careers

356. What Jobs Are You Most Curious About? 357. How Much Does Having a ‘Dream Job’ Matter to You? 358. Would You Pursue a Career If You Knew You Likely Would Not Make Much Money? 359. Will You Follow in Your Parents’ Footsteps? 360. Would You Consider Moving Overseas for a Job? 361. Do Your Summer Plans Include Employment? 362. Would You Consider Serving in the U.S. Armed Forces? 363. What Volunteer Work Would You Most Like to Do? 364. Have You Had a Job Recently? What Has the Experience Been Like?

365. Do You Have Satisfying Friendships? 366. How Alike Are You and Your Friends? 367. Do You Have Any Unlikely Friendships? 368. How Have Your Friends Helped You? 369. Do You Like Your Friends? 370. How Often Do You Text Your Friends Just to Say ‘Hi’? 371. Have You Ever Been Left Out? 372. Do You Ever Feel Lonely? 373. Have You Ever Had a Significant Friendship End? 374. Do You Have Any Close Friends? 375. How Many Close Friends Do You Need? 376. How Do You React When Your Friendships Change? 377. What Have Your Friends Taught You About Life? 378. What Have You Learned About Friendship This Year? 379. Do You Have Any Intergenerational Friendships? 380. What Makes a Great Conversation?

Dating, Love & Relationships

381. How Much of a Romantic Are You? 382. What Does Love Feel Like to You? 383. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating? 384. Have You Ever Been Ghosted? 385. Do You Want to Get Married Someday? 386. Would You Want to Be Proposed to on a Jumbotron? 387. If You Got Married, Would You Want to Keep Your Last Name or Take Your Partner’s?

388. What Are You Doing to Take Care of Your Health? 389. What Rules Do You Have for Staying Healthy? 390. Do You Have Any Bad Health Habits? 391. Do You Have More Good Habits Than Bad? 392. What Do You Think Are the Secrets to a Long Life? 393. How Well Do You Sleep at Night? 394. Do You Enjoy Taking Long Walks? 395. Do You Learn Better After Moving Around? 396. Do You Have a Healthy Diet? 397. What Is Your Relationship With the Weight-Loss Industry? 398. How Strong Is Your Sense of Smell? 399. Have You Ever Jumped Into Ice-Cold Water? 400. How Is Your Mental Health These Days? 401. Do You Ever Get the ‘Bad News Blues’? 402. How Do You Hold It Together When You’re Feeling Stressed? 403. How Does Your Body React to Stress? 404. How Do You Practice Self-Care? 405. What’s Your Favorite Mood Booster?

Sports & Games

406. What Kinds of Games and Puzzles Do You Like? 407. What Are Your Favorite Games? 408. How Would You Change Your Favorite Sport? 409. Have You Ever Learned Something From a Professional Athlete? 410. Have You Ever Felt Too Much Pressure to Win? 411. What Is Your Favorite Rivalry? 412. What Role Have Coaches Played in Your Life? 413. Have You Witnessed Bad Behavior in Youth Sports? 414. Do You Like a Comeback Story? 415. Would You Ever Want to Run a Marathon? 416. Would You Make a Good Ump?

417. What Is Your Dream Travel Destination? 418. What Is Your Most Memorable Family Vacation? 419. How Would You Spend Your Ideal Family Vacation? 420. Would You Ever Go on a Solo Vacation? 421. What Do You Think You Would Learn From Traveling to All 50 States? 422. What Are the Places in the World That You Love Most? 423. What City or Town Most Captures Your Imagination? 424. How Good Is Your Sense of Direction? 425. How Much Do You Know About the Rest of the World?

Shopping, Looks & Fashion

426. What’s Your Favorite Item of Clothing? 427. What Does Your Unique Style Say About You? 428. What Does Your Hairstyle Say About You? 429. Are You a Sneakerhead? 430. Do You Like Getting Dressed Up? 431. Could You Stop Shopping for an Entire Year? 432. Are You an Ethical Consumer? 433. What Would You Wait All Night in the Rain to Buy? 434. Do Politics Ever Influence How or Where You Shop? 435. Do You Wear Clothes for the Logo? 436. Would You Like to Be a Fashion Model? 437. How Do You Feel About Your Body? 438. How Do You Feel About Your Height? 439. How Do You Feel About Tattoos?

Meals & Food

440. What Foods Bring Up Special Memories for You? 441. What Foods Are Closely Linked to Someone You Love? 442. Who Is the Best Cook You Know? 443. How Do You Celebrate Your Culture Through Food? 444. What Do You Eat for Dinner on a Typical Weeknight? 445. What Are the Most Popular Dishes in Your House? 446. Are You Now, or Have You Ever Been, a Picky Eater? 447. What Are the Best Places to Eat in Your Town? 448. What Foods Best Represent Your Hometown? 449. What Are the Essential Foods to Eat Where You Live? 450. What New Flavor Ideas Do You Have for Your Favorite Foods? 451. What Convenience Foods Make You Happy? 452. How Do You Like Your Pizza? 453. Would You Ever Consider Becoming Vegetarian? 454. Would You Eat Food Grown in a Lab? 455. Have You Ever Experienced Food Insecurity? 456. What Do You Think Your Favorite Book or Movie Character Eats For Dinner?

Holidays & Seasons

457. Do You Make New Year’s Resolutions? 458. What Healthy Habits Do You Hope to Build in the New Year? 459. How Do You Celebrate Spring? 460. What Are Your Favorite Memories of Spring? 461. What Are Your Plans This Summer? 462. What’s the Most Memorable Thing That Happened to You This Summer? 463. What Were Your ‘Mundane Joys’ of Summer? 464. What Are Your Memories of Halloween? 465. What’s Your Favorite Halloween Costume, Past or Present? 466. How Much Scare Can You Handle in Your Halloween Entertainment? 467. What Does Thanksgiving Mean to You? 468. What Has Been Your Most Memorable Thanksgiving? 469. What Will You Talk About on Thanksgiving? 470. Did You Take Part in Any Thanksgiving or Post-Holiday Traditions?

Animals & Nature

471. How Do Animals Provide Comfort in Your Life? 472. What Have You Learned From Animals? 473. What Are Your Experiences With Animal Adoption or Fostering? 474. How Do You Feel About the Spiders, Insects and Other Tiny Creatures in Your Home? 475. How Do You Get Your Nature Fix? 476. What Are the Most Memorable Things You’ve Seen or Experienced in Nature? 477. What Is the Coolest Thing You Have Seen in Nature? 478. Have You Ever Tried to Grow Something?

Environment

479. How Are You Doing Your Part for the Environment? 480. How Concerned Are You About Climate Change? 481. Do You Experience Climate Anxiety? 482. Do You Think You Make Good Climate Choices? 483. Would You Change Your Eating Habits to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint? 484. Could You Live an Entire Day Without Plastic? 485. How Good Are You at Recycling? 486. How Have You Experienced Extreme Weather?

487. How Similar Are Your Political Views to Those of Your Parents? 488. How Important Is It to You to Have Similar Political Beliefs to Your Family and Friends? 489. Is Your Online World Just a ‘Filter Bubble’ of People With the Same Opinions? 490. Do You Think You Live in a Political Bubble? 491. How Do You Talk With People Who Don’t Share Your Views? 492. What Do American Values Mean to You? 493. What Does Your Country’s National Anthem Mean to You? 494. Are You Optimistic About the State of the World? 495. Have You Ever Changed Your Mind About a Hot-Button Issue? 496. How Have School Shootings Shaped Your Experience as a Student? 497. How Has the Threat of Gun Violence Affected You? 498. How Do You Feel About Active-Shooter Drills in Schools?

The Pandemic

499. What Does the End of the Pandemic Emergency Mean to You? 500. How Have the Last Two and a Half Years Made You Who You Are Today? 501. How Would You Describe Your Pandemic Experience in Six Words? 502. How Have You Commemorated Milestones During the Pandemic? 503. Do You Think You Have Experienced ‘Learning Loss’ During the Pandemic? 504. How Has the Pandemic Changed Your Relationship to Your Body? 505. What Have You Learned About Yourself During This Lockdown? 506. How Will We Remember the Coronavirus Pandemic?

507. Would You Want to Live to 200? 508. Would You Want to Live Forever? 509. Would You Like to Be Cryogenically Preserved (Frozen!) Upon Your Death? 510. Would You Want to Live a Life Without Ever Feeling Pain? 511. Would You Like to Be Famous? 512. Would You Want to Be a Child Star? 513. Would You Like to Be a Farmer? 514. If You Had an Extra Billion Dollars, What Cause Would You Support With Your Philanthropy? 515. Do You Think You Will Ever Travel to Space? 516. What Fantasy Invention Would You Want to Exist in Reality? 517. If You Could Have Any Animal Feature, What Would It Be? 518. What Fictional House Would You Want to Stay In? 519. What Scientific Mysteries Do You Want Solved? 520. What Idea Do You Have That Is Ahead of Its Time? 521. What Era Do You Wish You Had Grown Up In? 522. Do You Like Your First Name? Would You Change It If You Could? 523. What Would You Like to Ask Your 40-Year-Old Self? 524. What Items Would You Place in a Time Capsule for Future Generations? 525. If the World Was Ending, What Would You Want to Say?

Students 13 and older in the United States and Britain, and 16 and older elsewhere, are invited to comment. All comments are moderated by the Learning Network staff, but please keep in mind that once your comment is accepted, it will be made public.

Find more Student Opinion questions here. Teachers, check out this guide to learn how you can incorporate them into your classroom.

Engaging Narrative Writing Prompts High School

Narrative essays are a form of writing that allows high school students to share personal experiences and tell captivating stories. Whether it’s for a personal statement, an AP Language and Composition assignment, or a college application, choosing the right narrative essay topic is crucial. In this article, we will provide a list of engaging narrative writing prompts specifically designed for high school students. These thought-provoking ideas will spark creativity and help improve their writing skills.

• Key Takeaways:
• Engaging narrative writing prompts are essential for high school students.
• Narrative essays focus on storytelling and personal experiences.
• Choosing the right topic is crucial for crafting a compelling narrative.
• Show, don’t tell, using descriptive language and sensory details.
• Using dialogue and personal reflection can enhance the narrative.

Understanding Narrative Essays vs. Analytical Essays

When it comes to writing essays, high school students must be aware of the differences between narrative essays and analytical essays. These two types of essays require different approaches and focus on distinct aspects of writing. A clear understanding of these differences is crucial for students to excel in their academic writing.

Narrative essays are all about telling a story and providing a first-person account of personal experiences. The emphasis is on engaging the reader through creative details, vivid imagery, and sensory descriptions. Students are encouraged to show, rather than tell, using descriptive language to bring their stories to life. Personal reflection and a well-structured narrative are essential elements of a strong narrative essay.

On the other hand, analytical essays require critical thinking and the presentation of logical arguments. These essays focus on analyzing and interpreting a topic or issue, often requiring students to conduct research and provide evidence to support their claims. Structure and organization play a significant role in analytical essays, with a clear thesis statement and well-developed paragraphs. Students must demonstrate their ability to analyze and evaluate information in an objective manner.

• Key Differences Between Narrative and Analytical Essays:
• Focus: Narrative essays focus on storytelling and personal experiences, while analytical essays focus on analysis and logical arguments.
• Writing Style: Narrative essays use descriptive language and vivid imagery, while analytical essays require a more objective and formal writing style.
• Structure: Narrative essays typically follow a three-act structure, while analytical essays follow a more traditional essay structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
• Purpose: The purpose of a narrative essay is to entertain and engage the reader, while an analytical essay aims to inform and persuade.

By understanding the differences between narrative essays and analytical essays, high school students can approach their writing assignments with clarity and confidence, ensuring they meet the specific requirements of each type of essay.

How to Choose the Right Narrative Essay Topic

Choosing the right narrative essay topic is crucial for high school students. The topic you select will determine the success of your essay, as it sets the foundation for the entire writing process. To help you choose the right narrative essay topic, here are some guidelines to consider:

• 1. Consider your interests and passions

Start by thinking about the things that genuinely interest you or the topics you are passionate about. Writing about something you care about will make the process more enjoyable and authentic. It could be a personal experience, a hobby, a social issue, or any other subject that resonates with you.

• 2. Reflect on your personal experiences

Your own life experiences can provide a wealth of material for a narrative essay. Reflect on moments that have had a significant impact on you, whether they are joyful, challenging, or transformative. These personal experiences can help you create a compelling narrative that resonates with your audience.

• 3. Brainstorm different ideas

Take some time to brainstorm different ideas and topics for your narrative essay. Write down any thoughts or memories that come to mind, even if they seem unrelated at first. This can help you uncover unique and unexpected storylines that will make your essay stand out.

By following these guidelines, you can choose a narrative essay topic that is meaningful to you and captivates your readers. Remember to select a topic that allows you to showcase your writing skills and create a compelling narrative that leaves a lasting impression.

Elements of a Strong Narrative Essay

When writing a narrative essay, there are several key elements that can help create a strong and engaging piece of writing. By paying attention to these elements, you can captivate your readers and make your narrative essay stand out.

• 1. Show, Don’t Tell

One of the most important elements of a strong narrative essay is the ability to show rather than tell. Instead of simply stating facts and events, use descriptive language and vivid imagery to create a sensory experience for your readers. This will allow them to fully immerse themselves in your narrative and make it more engaging.

• 2. Start with a Strong Opening

The opening line of your narrative essay is crucial in grabbing your readers’ attention and setting the tone for the rest of the story. Consider starting with a compelling anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a vivid description that immediately draws your readers in and makes them want to continue reading.

• 3. Follow a Three-Act Structure

Structuring your narrative essay around a three-act structure can help create a cohesive and well-paced story. The three acts consist of the setup, the confrontation, and the resolution. In the setup, introduce the main characters, setting, and background information. In the confrontation, present the main conflict or challenge that the characters face. And in the resolution, provide a satisfying conclusion or resolution to the story.

• 4. Include Personal Reflection

At the end of your narrative essay, it’s important to include personal reflection to give your readers insight into the impact of your experiences. This allows you to provide a deeper understanding of the story and share any lessons or insights you’ve gained. Personal reflection adds depth and meaning to your narrative, making it more impactful for your readers.

By incorporating these elements into your narrative essay, you can create a strong and compelling piece of writing that will captivate your readers and leave a lasting impression.

Engaging Narrative Essay Topics for High Schoolers

When it comes to narrative essay writing, choosing the right topic is crucial for high school students. A well-selected topic not only sparks their interest but also provides ample material to create an engaging narrative. To help you in this process, here is a list of 50 narrative essay topics specifically designed for high school students.

• The most memorable birthday party you ever had
• A childhood incident that taught you an important life lesson
• A favorite family vacation and the adventures you experienced
• A special family tradition that holds meaning for you
• An unforgettable moment shared with your siblings
• A time when your parents surprised you with a thoughtful gesture
• An outdoor adventure that pushed you out of your comfort zone
• A beautiful place in nature that holds a special meaning for you
• An encounter with wildlife that left a lasting impression
• A concert or music festival that had a profound impact on you
• A song that represents a significant moment or emotion in your life
• Your experience learning to play a musical instrument
• Relationships:
• A friendship that has stood the test of time
• A mentor who has had a positive influence on your life
• A romantic relationship that taught you valuable lessons
• Self-Reflection:
• A personal accomplishment that made you proud
• A challenge you overcame and the lessons you learned
• A moment of self-discovery that changed your perspective
• Overcoming Adversity:
• A time when you faced a fear and came out stronger
• An experience that taught you resilience and perseverance
• A setback that turned into a valuable learning opportunity
• School Experiences:
• A teacher who inspired you and made a lasting impact
• An extracurricular activity that helped you discover a passion
• A memorable class project that challenged your creativity

These narrative essay topics cover a wide range of categories and themes, providing you with plenty of options to explore. Remember to choose a topic that resonates with you personally and allows you to showcase your unique voice and perspective. With the right topic in hand, you’ll be well on your way to writing an engaging and captivating narrative essay.

Using Writing Prompts to Spark Creativity

Writing prompts are a valuable tool for high school students to overcome writer’s block and ignite their creativity. They serve as a starting point, providing a specific idea or topic to kickstart the writing process. Using writing prompts can help students explore different perspectives, genres, and writing styles. Whether they are working on personal narratives, poetry, or fiction, writing prompts can serve as catalysts for imaginative and engaging stories.

• How to Use Writing Prompts Effectively

When using writing prompts, it’s important to approach them with an open mind and embrace the opportunity for self-expression. Here are some tips on how to use writing prompts effectively:

• Read the prompt carefully and understand the underlying theme or idea.
• Allow yourself to brainstorm and explore various angles or interpretations of the prompt.
• Use the prompt as a guide, but don’t be afraid to deviate from it and follow your creative instincts.
• Experiment with different writing styles, tones, and perspectives to make your writing unique.
• Set a timer and challenge yourself to write continuously for a specific amount of time to build momentum.
• Revise and edit your work to refine your ideas and improve the overall quality of your writing.
• Examples of Writing Prompts

Writing prompts can come in various forms, such as words, phrases, images, or questions. Here are a few examples of writing prompts that can inspire high school students in their creative writing endeavors:

• Write a letter to your future self, describing the person you aspire to be.
• Imagine you are stranded on a desert island. Describe your daily routine and how you survive.
• Write a poem about a vivid childhood memory that holds a special place in your heart.
• Write a short story about a hidden treasure that is discovered in an unexpected location.
• Describe a person you admire and explain why they inspire you.
• Write a persuasive essay arguing for or against a controversial topic of your choice.

By using writing prompts effectively, high school students can unlock their creativity, explore new ideas, and improve their writing skills. The process of responding to prompts allows students to think critically, develop their unique voice, and express their thoughts and emotions through the written word.

Creative Writing Prompts High School Students Will Love

Engaging high school students in creative writing can be a challenging task. To help inspire their creativity and encourage them to explore their writing skills, here is a comprehensive list of creative writing prompts specifically tailored for high school students.

• Storytelling Prompts:
• Create a story about a character who discovers they have a unique superpower.
• Write a story about a mysterious object that grants wishes, but with unexpected consequences.
• Imagine a world where time travel is possible. Write a story about a character who travels back in time to change a significant event.
• Write a story about a group of friends who embark on an adventure to find a hidden treasure.
• Poetry Prompts:
• Write a poem about a favorite childhood memory.
• Compose a poem that captures the beauty of nature during a specific season.
• Write a poem about a personal struggle or overcoming a difficult challenge.
• Create a poem inspired by a piece of artwork or a photograph that resonates with you.
• Suspenseful Narrative Prompts:
• Write a suspenseful story about a character who receives anonymous threatening messages.
• Create a story about a character who wakes up one day and realizes they have lost all their memories.
• Write a suspenseful story about a character who stumbles upon a hidden secret in their family’s attic.
• Create a story about a character who starts receiving visions of future events, but they are unsure if they can change their fate.
• Dialogue-Driven Prompts:
• Write a conversation between two characters who have opposing views on a controversial topic.
• Create a dialogue between two best friends who find themselves in a heated argument.
• Write a conversation between a mentor and a mentee, discussing life lessons and personal growth.
• Create a dialogue between two strangers who meet on a train and discover they have a shared connection.
• “What If” Prompts:
• Imagine a world where animals can talk. Write a story about a day in the life of a talking animal.
• Create a story about a character who wakes up one day with the ability to fly.
• Write a story about a world where technology has advanced to the point where humans can upload their consciousness into computer programs.
• Create a story about a character who discovers a portal to a parallel universe.
• Funny Prompts:
• Write a humorous story about a character who always seems to find themselves in embarrassing situations.
• Create a funny poem about a memorable family vacation gone wrong.
• Write a dialogue between two quirky characters who are trying to solve a ridiculous problem.
• Create a story about a mischievous talking animal who causes chaos in its owner’s life.

These creative writing prompts are designed to spark the imagination of high school students and provide them with a wide range of ideas to explore. Whether they choose to write a story, compose a poem, or engage in dialogue-driven writing, these prompts will inspire them to unleash their creativity and develop their writing skills.

Using Journal Prompts for High School Creative Writing

Journal prompts can be a valuable tool for high school students looking to engage in creative writing on a regular basis. By providing a starting point or a specific topic to explore, journal prompts can help inspire creativity, promote self-reflection, and improve writing skills. Here are some creative writing journal prompts specifically tailored for high school students:

• 1. Moments of Pride

Think about a time when you felt a deep sense of accomplishment or pride. Describe the experience in detail, including what led up to it, how it made you feel, and why it was significant to you.

• 2. Confronting Fears

Write about a time when you faced a fear or overcame a challenge. How did you feel before, during, and after? What did you learn from the experience and how did it shape you as a person?

• 3. Moments of Clarity

Reflect on a moment when everything seemed to fall into place and make sense. What was the situation and what led to this moment of clarity? How did it impact your perspective or understanding of yourself and the world around you?

• 4. Special Places

Describe a place that holds special meaning to you. It could be a childhood home, a favorite vacation spot, or a peaceful outdoor sanctuary. What makes this place significant to you and how does it make you feel when you are there?

• 5. Impactful People

Think about someone who has had a significant impact on your life. Describe this person and the ways in which they have influenced you. Why are they important to you and what lessons have you learned from them?

• 6. Moments of Beauty

Write about a moment when you witnessed something truly beautiful. It could be a natural phenomenon, a work of art, or a simple act of kindness. Describe the experience in detail and explain why it had such a profound impact on you.

Explore your dreams and aspirations. What are your biggest dreams for the future? Describe them and explain why they are important to you. Reflect on the steps you are taking or plan to take to turn these dreams into reality.

• 8. Memorable Experiences with Friends

Think about a memorable experience you had with friends. Describe the event, the people involved, and why it stands out in your memory. Reflect on the impact of friendship and the importance of these relationships in your life.

These journal prompts are designed to inspire high school students to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through creative writing. By engaging with these prompts regularly, students can develop their writing skills, enhance their self-expression, and unlock their imaginative potential.

Non-Fiction Writing Prompts for High School Students

Developing strong non-fiction writing skills is crucial for high school students as it allows them to effectively communicate their thoughts and experiences. To help high school students explore the world of non-fiction writing, we have compiled a list of engaging non-fiction writing prompts that will inspire them to share significant events, personal perspectives, and impactful moments from their lives. These prompts will encourage students to delve into topics such as inspirational people, current issues, challenges they have overcome, and social issues they care about. By engaging with these prompts, high school students can develop their storytelling abilities and enrich their writing.

• 1. Write about a significant event in your life:
• Reflect on a moment that shaped your character and explain its impact.
• Write about a time when you faced a major challenge and how you overcame it.
• Share an experience that taught you an important life lesson.
• 2. Discuss a person who has had a significant influence on your life:
• Write about someone who has inspired you to become a better person.
• Describe the qualities and values that make this person remarkable.
• Explain how this person’s actions or words have impacted your life.
• 3. Explore a social issue you are passionate about:
• Discuss a social issue that you believe needs more attention and awareness.
• Examine the root causes of the issue and propose possible solutions.
• Share personal experiences or encounters that have fueled your passion for this issue.

These non-fiction writing prompts are designed to empower high school students to express their unique perspectives and experiences. By engaging with these prompts, students can develop their writing skills and gain confidence in sharing their stories with others. Remember to approach each prompt with honesty, clarity, and a reflection of your personal journey. Happy writing!

Adventurous Short Story Prompts for High School Students

If you’re a high school student looking to embark on an exciting writing adventure, these adventurous short story prompts are perfect for you. Get ready to unleash your creativity and take your readers on thrilling journeys filled with suspense, danger, and excitement. Whether you prefer tales of solo hikes through the wilderness, treasure hunts in exotic locations, or scuba diving adventures in underwater worlds, these prompts will inspire you to craft captivating narratives that will keep your readers on the edge of their seats.

• 1. Solo Hike

Imagine yourself on a solo hike in a remote and unfamiliar forest. As you navigate through winding trails and dense foliage, you stumble upon a hidden cave. Curiosity gets the better of you, and you decide to explore the mysterious depths. What do you discover inside? Is it a hidden treasure, a forgotten civilization, or something more sinister? Craft a suspenseful and thrilling story that captures the challenges, dangers, and unexpected twists that await you on this daring adventure.

• 2. Treasure Hunt

You receive a mysterious map that leads to a long-lost treasure. Determined to uncover its secrets, you assemble a team of adventurers and set off on a treasure hunt that takes you across treacherous terrains, ancient ruins, and hidden chambers. Along the way, you encounter dangerous obstacles, rival treasure hunters, and cryptic clues. Will you be able to outsmart your competitors and claim the treasure for yourself? Write a thrilling short story that keeps readers guessing until the very end.

• 3. Scuba Diving Expedition

You sign up for a scuba diving expedition to an unexplored underwater world. As you descend into the depths of the ocean, you come across a sunken shipwreck with a mysterious cargo. As you investigate the wreckage, you uncover a shocking secret that could change the course of history. Can you overcome the challenges of the deep sea and protect the secret from falling into the wrong hands? Dive into the depths of your imagination and create a captivating narrative that plunges readers into the heart of the underwater adventure.

These adventurous short story prompts will push your storytelling skills to new heights and ignite your imagination. Whether you choose to embark on a solo hike, join a treasure hunt, or dive into the depths of the ocean, these prompts will provide you with the inspiration you need to craft thrilling and captivating narratives that will transport readers to extraordinary worlds of adventure.

Science Fiction Short Story Prompts for High School Students

Science fiction offers high school students a fascinating platform to explore imaginative and futuristic ideas. With these science fiction short story prompts, you can unleash your creativity and embark on thrilling adventures through time and space. From battling aliens to saving the world from catastrophic events, these prompts will inspire you to craft captivating science fiction narratives.

• 1. Time Travel:

Imagine being able to travel through time. Write a story about a high school student who discovers a mysterious time-traveling device and uses it to change the course of history.

• 2. Alien Encounters:

Create a story centered around a high school student who makes contact with extraterrestrial beings. Will they form an alliance with the aliens or face a dangerous interstellar conflict?

• 3. Dystopian Future:

Explore a future where society has collapsed, and chaos reigns. Write a story about a high school student who navigates through a dystopian world, fighting for survival and searching for hope.

• 4. Technological Advancements:

Imagine a world where advanced technology has transformed everyday life. Write a story about a high school student who stumbles upon a groundbreaking invention that has both extraordinary benefits and unforeseen consequences.

• 5. Earth vs. Asteroids:

Create a gripping narrative where a high school student takes on the mission to save the world from an impending asteroid impact. Will they succeed in diverting the catastrophic collision?

With these science fiction short story prompts, you have the power to create captivating narratives that transport readers to extraordinary realms. Let your imagination soar, explore the unknown, and craft thrilling tales that will leave your audience on the edge of their seats.

• Scary Short Story Prompts for High School Students

Scary stories have a way of captivating readers and keeping them on the edge of their seats. If you’re a high school student looking to explore the chilling and suspenseful world of scary storytelling, we’ve got you covered. Here are some scary short story prompts that will send shivers down your readers’ spines and ignite your imagination:

• The Haunted House: Write a story about a group of friends who decide to spend the night in a notoriously haunted house. As the night progresses, they begin to experience strange and terrifying events.
• The Mysterious Doll: Tell a tale about a creepy doll that seems to have a life of its own. Explore the doll’s origins and the eerie incidents that occur when it’s around.
• The Ghostly Encounter: Write a story about a character who has a chilling encounter with a ghost. Explore the ghost’s backstory and the impact it has on the protagonist’s life.
• The Cursed Object: Create a narrative around a cursed object that brings misfortune and terror to anyone who possesses it. Explore the consequences of the object’s curse and the attempts to break free from its grip.

These scary short story prompts will allow you to delve into the realm of horror and create suspenseful and spine-tingling narratives. Let your imagination run wild and captivate your readers with tales that will leave them with a lingering sense of fear.

In conclusion, the use of engaging narrative writing prompts is crucial for high school students to develop their writing skills and unleash their creativity. The provided prompts cover a wide range of topics and genres, offering students the opportunity to explore different storytelling techniques and styles. By utilizing these prompts, high school students can overcome writer’s block, find inspiration, and enhance their narrative writing abilities.

Whether they choose to write personal narratives, poetry, suspenseful stories, or non-fiction essays, these prompts serve as a catalyst for sparking imagination and resulting in the creation of compelling and captivating narratives. The prompts are designed to generate thoughtful and reflective content, enabling students to express their ideas and experiences in a meaningful manner.

By utilizing the strategies and tips provided throughout this article, high school students can transform their narrative writing into a powerful and engaging form of communication. Through the selection of the right narrative essay topics and the incorporation of key elements, such as showing instead of telling, using descriptive language, incorporating personal reflection, and employing dialogue, students can craft narratives that captivate readers and convey their unique perspectives.

In summary, narrative writing prompts are a valuable tool for high school students to improve their writing skills and cultivate their creativity. The prompts provided in this article aim to inspire and guide students as they embark on their narrative writing journey, enabling them to create narratives that are impactful and compelling.

• Source Links
• https://www.weareteachers.com/personal-narrative-ideas/
• https://blog.collegevine.com/narrative-essay-topics-for-high-schoolers
• https://www.immerse.education/study-tips/creative-writing/prompts-for-high-school-students/

Reading Worksheets, Spelling, Grammar, Comprehension, Lesson Plans

50 Narrative Essay Topics

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but a narrative essay can also tell an exciting story and create vivid pictures in the reader’s mind! We’ve got 50 narrative essay topics designed to prompt students to craft memorable written narratives. These can be modified for students in elementary, middle and high school. Feel free to print the entire narrative essay topics list for plenty of inspiration for your next narrative essay assignment!

Narrative Essay Topics

• Your first day of school.
• Your most exciting day of school
• A field trip that your class took.
• Your favorite summer vacation.
• A trip that included something unexpected or surprising.
• A time that you experienced something spooky.
• A time that you experienced something truly frightening.
• A time that you learned something new that changed you in some way.
• The moment when you met someone who changed your life.
• The day that you got your first pet.
• A move from one place to another.
• Something funny that happened to you.
• Something funny that happened to one of your family members or friends.
• Something embarrassing that happened to you.
• Your favorite birthday party.
• A birthday that was disappointing.
• A big storm (rain, snow or even a tornado!).
• A time that the power went out.
• A summer day when the temperature got much higher than expected.
• A time when you went to an amusement park.
• A time when you got lost somewhere.
• A memorable experience with a favorite family member.
• A sad experience with someone about whom you care.
• Your most exciting moment playing sports.
• Your most exciting moment performing in a play, singing, playing music or dancing.
• An experience that left you feeling frustrated.
• An experience that was hard but ended up being worth it.
• A time that you experienced rejection.
• A weird encounter with a stranger.
• A random act of kindness.
• A time that you took a stand for someone or for an issue that you care about.
• A moment when you thought you might get hurt but didn’t.
• Breaking a bone (or otherwise suffering an injury).
• Your first time away from home for the night (or longer).
• A time when you experienced a historic event.
• Where you were when a major event happened. (Note: You don’t need to have been at the site of the event; this prompt is about where you were when you found out about the event and how you reacted.)
• A time when you rebelled against your parents or teacher.
• A dangerous experience.
• A misunderstanding between yourself and someone else.
• A difficult decision that you had to make.
• The end of a friendship or relationship.
• The beginning of a friendship or relationship.
• A time when you judged someone first and then realized that you were wrong about the person.
• A time when someone judged you first and then realized that he or she was wrong about you.
• A moment when you felt that you were starting to grow up.
• A time when you saw one or both of your parents in a different light.
• A time when you looked up to your older sibling.
• A time when your younger sibling looked up to you.
• A time when you were grateful to be an only child.
• An experience that you think has only ever happened to you!

Looking for more essay topics? Compare and Contrast Essay Topics Descriptive Essay Topics Cause and Effect Essay Topics Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics

• Scriptwriting

Narrative Essay Topics — Prompts & Ideas For All Grade Levels

N arrative essays can present a serious challenge for even the most seasoned of writers, but fear not, we’ve compiled some great narrative essay topics to inspire your next paper! Follow along as we explore prompts relating to life, school, and more. By the end, you’ll be prepared to tackle narrative essays from a variety of different angles.

Good Narrative Topics

What is a narrative essay.

Before we jump into our narrative essay topics, we have to first answer the question: what is a narrative essay ? A narrative essay is a prose-written story that’s focused on the commentary of a central theme.

Narrative essays are generally written in the first-person POV , and are usually about a topic that’s personal to the writer.

Everything in a narrative essay should take place in an established timeline, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. 

For more on narrative essays, check out this video on literacy narrative topics and structure:

Narrative Essay Topic Ideas  •  Narrative Essay Titles

In the world of literature, narrative essays are held to a rigorous structure. We’re not going to enforce that rigor here! So, follow along as we (hopefully) inspire you with a variety of narrative essay topics and argument essay ideas. 

Narrative Ideas

Narrative essay ideas for kids.

Narrative essay topics for kids usually focus on family, school, and friends.

Here are some easy narrative essay topics that work well for kids:

• Describe your most recent birthday party.
• Tell the story of your first day of school.
• Who is your best friend?
• Have you ever helped others?
• Describe your favorite animal(s)
• What is your dream for the future?

This next video from “Teaching Without Frills” explores narrative essay topics for kids in further detail. 

Narrative Essay Ideas  •  Titles of narrative essays

Sometimes it can help to visualize narrative essay topics with pictures, especially for younger kids. If you’re a teacher, consider using pictures to inspire your students!

Narrative essay ideas for teens

Middle school and high school students are often asked to write narrative essays too. But whereas narrative essay topics for elementary school students are usually structured around simple, positive topics, narrative essay topics for teens are generally more contemplative.

Here are some personal narrative essay topics that work well for teens:

• Describe a moment of loss.
• Describe a moment of serenity.
• Recount the story of a lost friend.
• Detail your greatest creation.
• Tell the story of your favorite teacher.
• How would you change the world?

Remember: not every person has the same circumstances as others. That's why they're called personal narrative essay topics.

It’s important to frame narrative essay topics for kids in a way that every kid can relate. For example: the prompt “a lost friend” could mean a friend who moved away or a dead pet. Make sure to word your prompts in such a way that participants can glean their own interpretation.

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Narrative Essay Ideas

Narrative essay ideas for young adults.

Young adults are sometimes asked to write narrative essays for school and or job applications. Narrative essay reviewers typically want to see writers demonstrate maturity and growth in their work. As such, their questions are generally structured around challenges and problem management.

Here are some narrative argument essay topics for young adults:

• Have you ever failed at your job?
• If you could change one thing from your past, what would it be?
• What is something you take pride in?
• Describe your childhood.
• How will you grow this year?
• What is the most important element of success?

Of course, the topics above are mostly focused on success and failure. Young adults can certainly respond to the other prompts too!

Narrative essay ideas for adults

Adults aren’t generally tasked with writing narrative essays unless they’re writers. But that doesn’t have to be the case! There are a lot of positives to writing narrative essays, whether you’re a literary professor or a wrestler looking to articulate your thoughts.

So, here are some things to write a narrative essay about for adults:

• What was your worst job?
• What (or who) was your first love?
• Who do you take care of?
• What is your most prized possession?
• If you could tell somebody who’s now gone from your life one thing, what would it be?
• Paint a picture of where you find peace.

Narrative essay titles  •  Easy narrative essay topics

In recent years, companies have been selling books with narrative essay prompts for adults (particularly elderly adults) to reflect on their lives.

Creative Writing Prompts & Exercises

Now that you're brainstorming good titles for personal narrative, time to learn about other forms of creating writing. A narrative essay is just one type of essay – there are dozens more! In our next article, we break down more creative writing prompts and exercises, including those suited to fantasy, romance, horror, and more. By the end, you’ll know a ton of different ways to approach your next story.

Up Next: Creative Writing Exercises →

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125 Awesomely Clever Narrative Writing Prompts

From the time you learn how to talk, you have stories to tell.

Faced with a classroom writing assignment, though, you can feel the fog rolling in, hiding all your best personal narrative ideas. 

To clear that fog, sometimes, all you need are some simple questions to get started, which is why so many of the personal narrative prompts in this post include them. 

You’ll find the prompts grouped by theme to make your search for ideas easier. 

What Are Narrative Prompts? 

Childhood narrative prompts, growing pains narrative prompts, overcoming adversity narrative prompts, parents and family narrative prompts, dating and friendship narrative prompts, food and drink narrative prompts, school or education narrative prompts, jobs and career narrative prompts, morality and religion writing prompts, personality narrative prompts, fun narrative writing prompts, how to use narrative writing prompts to improve your writing.

Narrative prompts get you started telling parts of your own story . You won’t tell it all at once, but what you share in each narrative will answer a question or expand on an idea. And your readers will have a better idea of who you are and how you think. 

Here are some possible sources for personal narrative questions: 

• Dating questions
• Relationship questions
• Job interview questions
• “Never have I ever” questions
• “Would you rather” questions

So, if you’re wondering, “What are good personal narrative topics?” think of the questions you’ve been asked that got you writing so quickly your fingers could barely keep up. 

The following list should jog some memories and provide new ideas for a personal narrative you’ll be happy to share. 

125 Narrative Writing Prompts 

Look through each category of prompts for the personal narrative topics that trigger a stream of thoughts in your mind. Jot down your ideas as they come. 

What’s your favorite memory from childhood? What impression did it make?

What’s an important memory you only know from others who remember it?

What places from your childhood do you remember most fondly? 

Did you have an imaginary friend (or friends)? What were they like?

What was the best gift you remember receiving as a child? Why was it the best?

What were your favorite childhood shows, movies, or games? 

Did you ever have a moment in the spotlight? What was it, and did you enjoy it? 

What people do you remember most fondly, and when did you last see them?

What actor would play you in a movie based on your life, and why? 

What objects tell the story of what you were like as a child? 

What was your most precious childhood possession, and why? 

Have you ever had to deal with a bully? What did you do?

What have you learned from people of different generations or backgrounds? 

What do older generations not understand about yours? How is your life different?

What’s your most embarrassing memory from your teenage years? 

What’s your proudest memory from your teenage years, and why?

What was the hardest thing about going through puberty?

When was the first time you asked someone out, and how did it go?

When was the first time someone asked you out (or to a dance)? What did you say?

Did you ever try something you wish you hadn’t? What happened? 

What did you learn to be grateful for in your teenage years? 

What habit/s did you pick up as a teen that helped you along the way?

Have you had to overcome a childhood disease or injury? 

Did you lose someone to disease, a tragic accident, or natural causes?

Were you born with a visible, physical challenge that affected your childhood?

Were you born with an invisible health challenge that affected your childhood?

Have you struggled with a mental health challenge that has affected your life ? 

Have you had to undergo extensive medical treatment for a health problem? 

Have you needed special accommodations in school, work, etc.? Describe them.

Have you experienced discrimination because of gender, race, sexual orientation…?

What are your favorite survival or coping strategies for stress, anxiety, poverty…? 

Has financial stress affected your educational, career, or relationship prospects? 

What challenges have you overcome? How have you responded to them?

Describe your parents or guardians and their parenting styles? 

Describe a favorite memory about growing up with your family? 

Are you close to your parents and/or siblings? Are any estranged from you?

What is your racial or ethnic identity, and did your family share that with you?

How have you paid tribute to loved ones you’ve lost? 

To which family members did you feel closest growing up? Are you still close?

What hobbies did you pick up from your family? Which do you still have?

How did your family celebrate birthdays or holidays when you were growing up?

If you have in-laws, what is your relationship with them? Are you close with any?

Whom do you trust in your family, and whom do you keep at arm’s length? 

Do you talk to your parents (or siblings) about politics or religion? Why or why not?

How, when, and where did you meet your first love ? 

How, when, and where did you meet your first BFF and become friends?

Who were your best childhood friends, and what did you do together?

Have you ever wanted a friend to be more than that? Did you tell them?

Have you ever lost a friend who wanted to belong to a popular group? 

Have you ever had to put an end to a one-sided friendship? 

Have you ever had to break off a relationship with a toxic person? 

When have you told a lie of omission, and how did it affect your relationship?

Has anyone ever spread an unkind rumor about you? What did you do about it?

Have you ever been betrayed by a friend or family member? 

When was the last date you had that left you thinking, “More, please”? 

What were your favorite foods growing up, and how often could you have them?

What did you usually drink at home, and do you still drink them?

What did you like as a child that you don’t like now? 

What did you dislike as a child that you like now? 

What is a favorite food splurge, and what do you love about it?

How often do you cook for yourself, and what foods do you usually make? 

How often do you cook for others, and what’s the best meal you’ve prepared? 

Did you have a favorite birthday dinner or celebratory meal growing up?

What place did alcohol have in your family life, and how did that affect you?

What is your favorite baked good, and who makes the best?

When have you changed your food choices based on something you learned? 

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Who were your favorite teachers in elementary school? 

When you graduated high school, what did you want to study in college? 

Did you go to college, and what do you remember most about your first year?

When and how did you learn to manage your money? 

Could students at your high school talk openly about mental health challenges?

How have Health and Phy Ed classes influenced your body image? 

How have Health and Phy Ed classes influenced your attitude toward exercise?

What did you like most or least about the high school you attended? 

How did your school’s bullying policy affect you or someone you care about?

Have you ever acted on a dare to earn the respect or admiration of classmates? 

When did it hit home for you how different life is for poor vs. rich people?

When you were in grade school, what did you want to be when you grew up?

What was your first job? How did you get it, and how old were you?

Did you get a job in your chosen field right out of college? If so, how and when?

Do you have a life calling? And if so, is your current job part of it?

What do you hope to be doing within a year of graduating college? 

What have you made yourself? And does it relate to your chosen career or calling?

What would you do or create if you had all the funding you could possibly need? 

Would you rather work from home or in an office?

Would you rather work as a supervisor, a team member, or a connected hermit? 

What have you done to earn money? And what is your favorite way to do so?

Do you have (or think you will have) a career or job you love? 

What did you believe as a minor that you no longer believe? 

What did you not believe as a minor that you do believe now?

What role does religion play in your life (if any)? Has it ever (not) played a role?

How important is it that your life partner share your religious beliefs? Why?

What ethical or moral dilemmas have you faced? How did you respond?

Have you ever given money to a stranger who asked for it? 

Have you ever “paid it forward”? Or has anyone helped you to pay it forward?

How comfortable are you with lying? When have you told a lie and not regretted it?

How do your religious or spiritual beliefs differ from your parents/guardians?

Have you ever looked up to a religious leader only to be disappointed by them? 

How would you sum up your view of the afterlife — or your life’s purpose?

What do you think are the biggest strengths of your personality? 

What do you think are your greatest weaknesses?

When did you learn you’re an introvert or an extravert? 

Is your best friend an introvert or an extravert? 

What personality traits do you admire in other people? 

What personality traits have gotten you into trouble in the past? 

What role does procrastination play in your life? 

What is your personal credo or mantra? When or how did you choose it?

When faced with a problem, do you rely more on your head or your heart?

How do you respond to criticism? When have you responded badly?

What motivates you? Are you driven, or do you just go with the flow?

How productive or organized are you? How does your workspace look? 

What would happen if you discovered a hidden door in your bedroom that led to a magical world?

Imagine you could swap lives with your favorite celebrity for a day. How would you spend your time in their shoes?

If you could travel back in time and witness any historical event, which one would you choose and why?

You wake up one morning to find that you have the ability to read minds. How do you use this newfound power?

What if you discovered that your pet could talk? What kind of conversations would you have?

Suppose you found a genie in a bottle who granted you three wishes. What would you wish for and why?

You stumble upon a mysterious old book in a library. When you open it, you’re transported into the story. What happens next?

If you could create your own superhero, what powers would they have, and how would they use them to save the world?

Imagine you’re stranded on a deserted island with only one object of your choice. What would you bring, and how would it help you survive?

You receive an invitation to attend a secret society’s meeting. What happens when you arrive?

What if you could live in any fictional world from a book or movie? Which one would you choose, and what adventures would you have?

Suppose you had the power to invisibility for a day. How would you use this ability?

You discover a mysterious key that can unlock any door. Where would you go, and what would you discover?

Imagine you’re given the opportunity to create your own country. What would you name it, and what laws would you establish?

These narrative prompts are an excellent tool for enhancing your storytelling skills and sparking your creativity. They provide a starting point for your writing journey and encourage you to explore new ideas, characters, and plot lines. 

By incorporating prompts into your writing routine, you will unlock your imagination and develop your writing abilities. Try these ways to use narrative writing prompts effectively:

• Use prompts as a warm-up exercise to get your creative juices flowing before diving into your main writing project
• Challenge yourself to write short stories or flash fiction based on the prompts to practice concise storytelling
• Expand on a prompt to create a longer piece, such as a novella or novel, by developing the characters, world-building, and plot
• Incorporate elements from multiple prompts to create a unique and complex story
• Share your prompt-inspired stories with fellow writers or in writing workshops to receive constructive feedback and improve your craft

By regularly engaging with narrative writing prompts, you’ll find your writing skills growing and your creativity flourishing.

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Narrative Essay Topics: TOP 200 Choices for Students

Imagine yourself facing a blank page, ready to fill it with your memories and imagination. What story will you tell today?

As students, you often have to write narratives that capture people's attention. But with so many stories to choose from, where do you start? How do you find the perfect topic that will grab our readers' interest and make them think?

Join our essay service experts as we explore 200 topics for college where stories are waiting to be told, and experiences are ready to be shared. From everyday events to unforgettable moments, each topic is a chance to connect with your readers and make them feel something.

Best Narrative Essay Topics: How to Choose the One That Resonates 

A narrative essay is a type of writing that tells a personal story, including characters, plot, setting, and the order of events. Its main goal is to connect with readers emotionally and share a specific message or insight through the retelling of a meaningful experience.

Students write narrative essays as part of their studies for several reasons. Firstly, it allows them to express themselves creatively by sharing their unique experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Secondly, it helps them develop important writing skills like organizing ideas and thoughts effectively.

Choosing good narrative essay ideas involves looking at personal experiences, interests, and the potential for engaging storytelling. Here's a simple guide to help you pick the right topic:

• Think about significant moments in your life that had a lasting impact, such as personal growth or overcoming challenges.
• Choose topics related to your hobbies, interests, or areas of expertise to make your story more engaging.
• Consider what your audience would be interested in and choose topics that resonate with them.
• Focus on a specific event or detail to make your narrative more focused and impactful.
• Look for universal themes like love or personal transformation that connect with readers on a deeper level.
• Brainstorm ideas and write freely to uncover compelling topics.
• Decide on storytelling techniques like flashbacks or foreshadowing and choose a topic that fits.
• Get feedback from friends, peers, or instructors to see if your topics are interesting and impactful.
• Choose topics that evoke strong emotions for a more compelling narrative.
• Select a topic that you personally connect with to make your story authentic.

Once you've chosen a topic, brainstorm ideas and create an outline for your essay. Follow your professor's instructions carefully and consider seeking help from our narrative essay writing service if needed.

Bring your stories to life with EssayPro. Select from a vast array of narrative essay topics and let our professionals help you weave your tales into captivating essays. Whether it's adventure, reflection, or imagination, we're here to assist.

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Ideas for Narrative Essay Topics

After exploring how students write narrative paragraphs, we've put together a list of narrative essay topics designed specifically for college and school students. This list covers a wide range of subjects, so pick one that speaks to you! If you want to see how to develop a topic into a written essay, check out our narrative essay example . 

Literacy Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

How about delving into captivating literacy narrative essay topics designed specifically for college-level writing? Exciting, isn't it?

• How did learning to read change my perspective on the world?
• What was my favorite childhood book and why?
• How did writing my first story impact my love for storytelling?
• What challenges did I face when learning a new language?
• How did keeping a journal help me improve my writing skills?
• How did my family influence my attitude toward reading?
• What role did literature play in shaping my identity?
• How did participating in a book club enhance my reading experience?
• How did technology affect my reading habits?
• What was the most memorable book I read in school?
• How did my favorite teacher inspire my passion for literature?
• What impact did reading diverse perspectives have on my worldview?
• How did overcoming a reading difficulty shape my relationship with books?
• What lessons did I learn from writing my first poem?
• How did storytelling traditions in my culture influence my literacy journey?

Personal Narrative Essay Topics on Relationships

Take a moment to reflect on your past experiences and craft compelling personal narratives with these essay ideas.

• How did my relationship with my best friend change over time?
• What lessons did I learn from my first romantic relationship?
• How did my relationship with my sibling influence who I am today?
• What challenges did I face in maintaining a long-distance friendship?
• How did a conflict with a family member teach me about communication?
• What role do my pets play in my life and relationships?
• How did volunteering together strengthen my bond with a friend?
• What impact did a mentor have on my personal growth?
• How did a betrayal affect my trust in relationships?
• What did I learn from a failed friendship?
• How did traveling with a friend deepen our connection?
• What role does forgiveness play in maintaining healthy relationships?
• How did my relationship with my parents evolve as I grew older?
• What lessons did I learn about teamwork from a group project?
• How did a disagreement with a colleague teach me about compromise?

Best Narrative Essay Topics on Education and Learning

Consider the beauty of sharing your personal experiences and emotions in a captivating manner through these ideas for personal narrative essays.

• How did a particular teacher inspire me to excel in school?
• What challenges did I face while adapting to online learning?
• How did participating in extracurricular activities shape my educational experience?
• What lessons did I learn from a memorable field trip?
• How did studying abroad broaden my perspective on education?
• What role does technology play in modern education?
• How did overcoming a learning obstacle impact my academic journey?
• What did I gain from tutoring a classmate in a challenging subject?
• How did a hands-on learning experience change my understanding of a topic?
• What impact did a mentor have on my educational and career aspirations?
• How did peer collaboration enhance my learning in a group project?
• What lessons did I learn from a failure or setback in school?
• How did my cultural background influence my approach to education?
• What role does self-directed learning play in my academic success?
• How did participating in a debate or public speaking event shape my communication skills?

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Personal Narrative Essay Ideas on Reflection on Life

Why not ignite your creativity with a range of narrative essay topics, from extraordinary moments to everyday experiences?

• How did confronting a fear change my view on courage and growth?
• How do family traditions shape my personal values and beliefs?
• What does success mean to me, and how has it evolved?
• Reflecting on friendships as a source of support in tough times.
• How have travel experiences expanded my global perspective?
• How do my hobbies and passions bring fulfillment to my life?
• Exploring the link between self-love and mental well-being.
• How can challenges lead to unexpected personal growth?
• Reflecting on the importance of setting and reaching personal goals.
• What pivotal moments mark my journey to self-acceptance?
• Investigating how forgiveness resolves personal conflicts.
• How do cultural expectations shape my idea of success?
• Reflecting on the significance of self-care for overall well-being.
• Exploring how technology influences my connections and worldview.
• What did I learn from facing a life-changing decision?

Ideas for a Narrative Essay on Culture and Society

Engaging your readers with narrative essays on culture and society is a great way to spark interest, offering captivating ideas for exploration.

• How has my cultural heritage shaped my identity?
• Reflecting on a tradition or ceremony that holds significance in my culture.
• Exploring the impact of globalization on local traditions and customs.
• How does language influence the way I perceive the world around me?
• Investigating the role of food in cultural identity and expression.
• Reflecting on a cultural celebration or festival that left a lasting impression.
• How does media portrayal affect societal perceptions of different cultures?
• Exploring the intersection of culture and religion in shaping values and beliefs.
• Reflecting on experiences of cultural assimilation or integration.
• How do stereotypes impact individuals within a cultural group?
• Investigating the role of art and literature in preserving cultural heritage.
• Reflecting on the challenges and benefits of multiculturalism in society.
• Exploring the significance of storytelling in passing down cultural traditions.
• How do cultural norms influence gender roles and expectations?
• Reflecting on the cultural exchange experiences that have broadened my perspective.

Since you're working on essays, we think it's suitable to suggest you learn more about the case study format , which is another common college assignment.

Narrative Writing Topics on Hobbies and Interests

Wow your readers by turning your passions and hobbies into compelling narrative essay topics that will get them thinking.

• Describe a memorable adventure or experience related to your favorite hobby.
• Reflect on how your hobby has evolved over time and its significance in your life.
• Write about a moment when your hobby provided a sense of escape or relaxation.
• Explore the role of hobbies in promoting mental health and well-being.
• Share a story of how you discovered your passion for a particular hobby.
• Describe a challenge you faced while pursuing your hobby and how you overcame it.
• Reflect on the impact of your hobby on your relationships with others.
• Write about a hobby-related achievement or milestone that you are proud of.
• Explore how your hobby connects you to a community or group of like-minded individuals.
• Describe the process of learning a new hobby and the lessons you gained from it.
• Reflect on the role of hobbies in balancing work, leisure, and personal growth.
• Write about a hobby-related project or creation that you are passionate about.
• Explore the connection between your hobbies and your broader interests and values.
• Describe a favorite memory or experience involving your hobby.
• Reflect on how your hobbies have influenced your perspective on life and the world around you.

Narrative Essay Titles on Life-Changing Moments

Life is full of unexpected twists that can lead to life-changing moments. Take a look at these narrative essay titles for stories that have had a lasting impact on your life.

• How did meeting a lifelong friend change my life?
• What lessons did I learn from overcoming a major obstacle?
• How did traveling to a new country broaden my perspective?
• Reflecting on the day I discovered my passion.
• How did a health scare transform my lifestyle?
• What impact did volunteering in my community have on me?
• How did I find strength in a moment of loss?
• Reflecting on the decision that altered my path.
• How did a random act of kindness change my outlook?
• What lessons did I learn from a failed endeavor?
• How did confronting a fear empower me?
• Reflecting on the day I realized my potential.
• How did experiencing a natural disaster shape my priorities?
• What insights did I gain from a cultural exchange?
• How did a mentor's guidance impact my life trajectory?

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Good Narrative Topics on Travel and Adventure

Consider creating intriguing titles for your narrative essay ideas by exploring thrilling travel adventures.

• What was my most unforgettable travel experience?
• How did a solo journey change my perspective on life?
• Reflecting on an unexpected adventure in a foreign land.
• How did traveling on a budget lead to unexpected discoveries?
• What lessons did I learn from getting lost in a new city?
• How did a cultural immersion experience broaden my understanding of the world?
• Reflecting on the friendships formed during a travel adventure.
• What was the scariest moment I encountered while traveling?
• How did volunteering abroad impact my outlook on life?
• What cultural differences surprised me the most while traveling?
• Reflecting on the beauty of nature experienced during a hiking trip.
• How did traveling to a remote destination challenge my comfort zone?
• What was the most delicious food I tried while traveling?
• Reflecting on the kindness of strangers encountered during a journey.
• How did a travel mishap turn into a memorable experience?

Narrative Essay Topic Ideas on Career and Work Experience

College students can uncover captivating narrative essay ideas by exploring potential career paths or reminiscing about past job experiences.

• What was my first job, and what did I learn from it?
• Reflecting on a challenging project that taught me resilience.
• How did a career setback lead to unexpected opportunities?
• What lessons did I learn from transitioning to a new career?
• Reflecting on a mentor who influenced my career path.
• How did a workplace conflict teach me about communication?
• What was the most rewarding moment in my career so far?
• Reflecting on the importance of work-life balance in my career journey.
• How did networking help me advance in my career?
• What challenges did I face as a new graduate entering the workforce?
• Reflecting on the decision to pursue a passion versus stability in my career.
• How did a career change impact my sense of fulfillment?
• What skills did I develop through volunteer work that helped in my career?
• Reflecting on the role of mentors in my professional growth.
• How did a career milestone shape my future aspirations?

Interesting Narrative Essay Topics about Challenges and Obstacles

If you're not sure what to write about for your narrative essay, think back to the tough times you've had and how you managed to get through them.

• How did I overcome my fear of failure?
• Reflecting on a time when I felt like giving up but persevered.
• How did a personal setback lead to unexpected growth?
• What lessons did I learn from navigating a difficult relationship?
• Reflecting on a time when I had to step out of my comfort zone.
• How did I overcome a major health challenge?
• What strategies did I use to overcome procrastination?
• Reflecting on the resilience I developed after facing adversity.
• How did I navigate financial challenges and come out stronger?
• What did I learn from failing at something I was passionate about?
• Reflecting on the obstacles I faced while pursuing my dreams.
• How did I overcome imposter syndrome in my academic or professional life?
• What role did self-care play in helping me overcome challenges?
• Reflecting on a time when I had to stand up for myself in the face of adversity.
• How did I find motivation and inspiration during tough times?

Final Remarks

As we wrap up, our list of 200 narrative essay topics is here to fuel your creativity for your next writing project! Whether you're sharing a memorable event, reliving a childhood memory, or expressing a profound insight, crafting a narrative essay can be an uplifting experience that resonates deeply with readers.

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Narrative Writing Prompts to Assign Your Students: 10 Writing Prompts for Narrative Essays

While I am a huge advocate of assigning writing to students at the beginning of the school year , middle school ELA and high school English teachers can assign narrative writing at any point in the year. In this blog post, I’m going to share 10 narrative writing prompts with you!

Teaching students about narrative writing and assigning a narrative writing project helps students work on their creativity, while also focusing on important literary elements. I explain to my students that just like the short stories that we read and analyze in class, they also need to create a setting that enhances the lot. Just like the short stories we read and analyze in class, they also need to fully develop the protagonist and antagonist.

Once students see this connection, they become stronger readers and writers. To help with this concept, my narrative writing teaching unit helps walk students step-by-step throughout the process.

Here are 10 narrative writing prompts to consider using in your classroom.

Personal narrative prompts.

When I choose one of these personal narrative writing prompts, since I teach high school, I also explain to my students that they most likely will be able to use some of what they’ve written for a college admissions essay or scholarship essay.

• Write about a time when you worked hard toward accomplishing a goal. Tell the story about the goal, why you set the goal, the steps you took to accomplish the goal, and how you felt once it was accomplished.
• Write about the accomplishment you are most proud of. In your narrative, explain your accomplishment, describe why you are most proud of it, and tell the story surrounding it.
• Write about a time when you experienced hardship or failure. In your narrative, elaborate on the hardship. Explain the events and your feelings surrounding the hardship or failure, and how you have grown from the experience.
• Write about your best childhood memory. In your narrative, tell the story of that memory.
• Write about an event from your past that has shaped the person who you are today. In your narrative, tell the story surrounding that event and explain its significance on who you are today.

Fictional Narrative Prompts

• The day started out like any other. However, as soon as I woke up, I quickly realized…
• Two characters explore an area in a field. During their explorations, they find a secret passage, a sort of tunnel to a new dimension. The characters step into the tunnel and are immediately transported to…
• Choose your favorite fictional character from any fairy tale or superhero story and write an alternate story for that character.
• The clock was tickly so slowly. It seemed as if time was moving backward and now forwards…
• Cautiously, she/he/they opened the door and stepped inside. There was no going back now…

Teach Narrative Writing in Your Secondary ELA Classroom

Engage your students in this exciting and comprehensive narrative writing unit!  This standards-based narrative writing unit includes materials for both a personal narrative and a fictional narrative and includes everything you need to teach narrative writing to your middle and high school students, including both the print and digital files!

Walk your students step-by-step through the writing process with the materials in this unit. From brainstorming and organizing to peer editing, this narrative writing unit has it all!

Here is what fellow teachers say about this narrative writing unit!

“This was an excellent resource for narrative writing in my special education class. My students use the Amplify ELA curriculum, but struggle with writing. Our first unit was in writing narratives, so I chose this resource to help break down the parts of their story by focusing on characters, settings, conflict, and planning out the plot separately. The result was more well thought out responses to their prompt. The slideshow for instruction was also well made and easy to read. Thank you!”

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Extremely satisfied

“ I used this as part my short story writing unit with my grade eights. It was an excellent way to set up their stories. I wanted to make sure my students really know all parts of their story before sitting down to writing their first draft. This resource really helped them get to know all aspects of their story.”

“ Teaching narrative writing is definitely NOT my strength! However, this resource made it so much easier!! Piecing together our stories by plot elements was so effective in getting my students on the path to creating some awesome stories! I will never teach narrative any other way! This is it!”

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13 Personal Narrative Ideas for High School to Kickstart Your Essay

Table of contents

A narrative essay is a story you tell about yourself, your experiences, and your thought processes.

The purpose of writing a narrative essay isn’t just to tell a tale but to figure out a deeper meaning behind each experience. Students are encouraged to find a moral or a theme that they can pull out from their experiences that changed their lives, even in the slightest possible manner.

In this article, we enlist personal narrative ideas for high school to get you started.

3 Personal Narrative Ideas for High School Students

Personal narrative essays are common writing assignments. However, the biggest roadblock high school students face is not being able to come up with interesting personal narrative ideas.

If your idea is weak, there’s no way you can write a high-scoring personal narrative essay. To make your lives easier, we’ve put together 13 personal narrative ideas for high school you can take inspiration from and kickstart your essay.

Experiences

When writing about experiences, you have to look at both the positive and negative experiences you’ve come across in your life and write them in a professional and literary manner.

To come up with an interesting and appropriate topic for your essay, reflect on your thoughts concerning your life experiences, then expand on why the memory you’ve chosen as your topic is important to you and how it has left an imprint in your life.

Flow with your words and describe appropriately but in detail to make your narrative catchy and attention-grabbing for your professors.

Here are a few topic ideas you can use to write about:

• an experience that taught you life lessons;
• a frightening experience;
• a life-changing experience;
• success story experiences;
• an experience that taught you to survive on your own;
• an unpleasant experience;
• an almost-death experience.

Most of the time, there are very few chances of remembering all or most of your childhood memories.

However, there must be a few that left a lasting mark, like a memory that was significant to you or your loved ones, a first-time experience that imprinted in your mind, or happy or fun days that still bring a smile to your face.

As a child, your imagination is very vivid and vast, and there could be scenarios that were dreamt or imagined. These memories are still considered a part of your childhood. Use them to write a great and fascinating narrative essay.

• your favorite cartoon or animation show;
• a memorable summer vacation;
• what did you want to be when you grew up, and why;
• a memorable birthday party and what made it memorable;
• a childhood best friend.

Here’s an interesting video on how to talk about your childhood by Nessa Palmer .

School life

Your school years are your formative and developmental years. It’s the first step toward adulthood. During this period of your life, you learn and experience a lot of things, as well as get essential knowledge through teachings and life lessons that play a big role in the development of your behavior, cognitive thinking, and personality.

Everyone remembers their school years, be it a positive or a negative experience, and that is why it is the perfect topic example for writing a narrative essay that is funny, relatable, and makes you go back to one of the most important, unique but challenging times of your life.

• What was your most favorite or least favorite subject, and why?
• A teacher you idolized?
• What was your first day at school like?
• Describe the time you went on a school trip.
• What was the funniest thing that happened in your class?
• What was your worst school memory?
• Did any of your teachers or peers influence you into becoming who you are today?

Relationships

As you grow older, your relationship with your parents and siblings gets stronger; you make more friends -- new friends who become inseparable and get into deep relationships, casual affairs, and strong bonds.

Writing about your relationships and what they teach you, how they affected you, what mistakes you made, and what you learned through them will branch out into a variety of topic ideas that you can use to craft your narrative essay.

• your relationship with your sibling(s);
• the person who you’re most afraid to lose;
• the friendship breakup that devastated you;
• what is the worst argument you’ve had with your loved one;
• your best friend;
• a time you faced rejection.

Interests and hobbies

Everyone has a hobby or is interested in specific things, such as music, surfing, dancing, and art. Additionally, people can have multiple hobbies or can be very skilled at a couple of things they are interested in.

Through your interests and hobbies, people can understand you as a person and can relate to your interests as theirs. It causes your readers to get more hooked on your narrative and helps them correlate with your experiences and how you dealt with them.

• If you were a TV character, who would you be?
• What is that one talent you’ve always had?
• Talk about your favorite hobby and why you enjoy it.
• My favorite musician or band.
• What movie impacted you greatly?
• How do you know if your interests made you who you are?
• A sporting event you attended or participated in.

High school life

High school is an interesting time in everyone’s lives.

You get to create amazing stories as you’ll meet new people, you’ll learn new subjects, you’ll have a new routine, you’ll get a new sense of independence and a set of new expectations that need to be met.

• The first day you moved into your dorm room;
• The toughest exam you gave;
• Most embarrassing moment in class;
• A lecture or a seminar that left a lasting impression on you;
• What challenges did I face while writing a research paper or a thesis in high school?

Imaginative (Imagine if..)

Brainstorming topics like these need your full-fledged imagination so that you can come up with interesting, hypothetical, and quirky topic ideas for your narrative essays.

This is one of the more popular topic ideas because you can make up anything.

• Imagine if you won the lottery. How are you going to spend it?
• Imagine if you experience something paranormal. What would you do?
• Imagine if you were a superhero. What would you do?
• Imagine if you had a time machine. Where would you travel to?
• Imagine if, one day, your favorite character came to your home. What would happen?

This subtopic is also a favorite amongst students as they can write about themselves, delve into deeper meanings and understand the experiences they went through.

• what is the weirdest thing about you;
• what is your biggest fear, and what was your first encounter with it;
• what unique talent do you have that very few people have;
• what do you do when you spend your time alone;
• what is the worst/best day of your life;
• things you love about yourself;
• things you could tell your younger self.

Travel experiences

Travel experiences are a big hit for narrative writing topic ideas. You can write about local places that you’ve been to, countries or cities you have visited, different cultures that you have experienced, or even places that you would like to visit in the future.

In these topics, you can expand using excerpts from your memories or use photographs to think about your experience and write it down in a narrative structure.

Keep in mind to focus on one event or experience, as writers usually make the mistake of writing about their entire travel experience which your readers may stray their attention from your essay when they get less interested in the subject.

Some topic ideas that you can include in this section are:

• What is your ideal vacation?
• Have you ever been pick-pocketed? Describe your experience.
• Would you like to live in another country? Where and why?
• What was your impression when you visited a major historical site?
• Describe a day you were traveling, and something terrible happened.
• Write about your favorite summer vacation trip.
• What was your first flight experience on a trip abroad?
• Have you ever gotten lost in a city? How did you find your way back?
• How is food different in your country than in your favorite foreign country?

Moments of inspiration

Have you ever had a moment in your life that inspired you to do great things? Whatever your source of inspiration is, whether it's about a trip, a beautiful view with a backstory, a classic literature novel, your peers and friends, or an unexpected incident -- you can always use these to frame an interesting piece of writing.

Moments that cause you to be inspired about something always have a significant meaning behind them. It may help you succeed in something you were nervous about, it may help you face your fears, it may help you to feel motivated to work toward yourself, or it can just make you feel happy about the life you’re living.

• Write about a person who inspired you to keep trying and never fall back.
• What’s your favorite inspirational movie?
• Have you ever felt like you could do better? Write about what inspired you to do better.
• Have you been inspired by a character in a novel? How do you empathize with this character?
• Who is your role model outside your family members?
• What is the best advice that you’ve gotten from someone? Expand on how it changed you.
• Write about the teacher in your life who has played a major role in inspiring you.

Personality traits

Every person has their own personality, and every personality is unique, varied, and has its own story to tell. You can write a narrative essay about your strengths, weaknesses, your different moods, characteristics, important traits, etc.

There are many topics that you can use when writing about your personality and you can expand on them thoroughly using your own experiences, memories, other perspectives, and how you define your personality. Some of them include the following:

• What makes you happy?
• How much self-control do you have?
• How well do you take criticism?
• Do you have any personal rituals?
• Do you perform better when you’re competing or when you’re collaborating?
• How competitive are you?
• How often do you cry?
• What is an irrational fear of yours?
• What is your experience in solving a dilemma?
• Discuss what assumptions people make about you.
• List and discuss your personal superstitions.
• Have you been a leader all your life, or are you a follower?
• Do you take risks? Are you a daredevil or just spontaneous?
• Do you have a phobia? Describe an incident where you faced your fears.

Music is a very vital part of human life. It spreads happiness, soothes your soul, it can make you feel relaxed, motivated, peaceful, and emotional. It can also be your escape, your only method to working without being distracted, your way to take off the entire day’s energy. Music is therapy for a lot of people who use it to feel calm and joy.

You must have turned to your favorite song or genre whenever you needed a helping hand with your troubles or influenced your friends to listen to a song that you relate to on another level.

Music is a part of people’s journeys, and multiple experiences and stories can take place in your life because of it. Here are some topics on music that you can write your narrative essay on:

• Who in your life introduces you to new music?
• Is there a music composition that cheers you up instantly?
• What’s your go-to music genre for work?
• Do you prefer listening to lyrical or instrumental music? Why?
• Who is your guilty pleasure music artist/band? List out reasons why.
• What’s your favorite karaoke song?
• Which pop star inspires or fascinates you?
• How much is your taste in music similar to or different from your friends?
• Do you have specific songs which always remind you of a memory?
• Write about the most exciting experience you’ve had in your life related to music.

Sports and games

Sports and games are both essential for the mental health of students. It increases your immunity, increases blood flow in the body, and makes you adaptable to exertion. Sports are generally played outdoors, whereas games can be played indoors.

Through sports and games, your mind recharges and starts thinking of strategies to succeed. It helps you become more creative and makes your body and mind agile. It helps you keep your body fit and increases stamina.

Similarly, through sports and games, you can learn team spirit, leadership skills, ambitions, and competitiveness. You also develop analytic and strategic thinking. You learn to work toward your goals and build character.

Here are a few topics for a sports or games-related narrative essay:

• What was your first sports event like?
• List out the sports you are good at and why?
• Have you ever had a bad accident while playing a sport?
• How has your favorite sport changed your life?
• Is there a board game that you always win? Which one is it and why?
• What is your one go-to game or sport for any weather, any mood?
• Who is your favorite sports player? Why and what makes them stand out?
• How have you changed since you started playing a sport?
• Are you good at card games? Describe one experience where you were outstanding.
• Write about sports that don’t interest you. Explain why you do not enjoy them.
• If you could play for any team in any sport, which team would you pick and why?
• Write about a friend you made by being involved in athletics.

To conclude, personal narrative essays are in a league of their own. They are simple, engaging, relatable, and always have a moral or learning behind each story or each experience.

These personal narrative ideas for high school and college students will initiate their imagination to write a top-grade quality essay that their professors will come to love and remember through their way of transforming experiences into thought-provoking content.

If you find yourself stuck, reach out to Writers Per Hour. Our expert essay writers will help you write a compelling personal narrative essay that will not only bring out personal experiences but will also get you the grades you desire.

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65 Engaging Personal Narrative Ideas for Kids and Teens

Tell a story to engage the reader.

Personal narrative essays are all about telling stories. Engage your reader with lots of descriptive language, and ensure you have a beginning, middle, and end. ( Get more tips about teaching narrative writing here. ) Try these personal narrative ideas to inspire kids and teens to tell meaningful stories from their own lives, no matter what they’ve experienced.

“Describe a Time When You …” Personal Narrative Ideas

Firsts and bests personal narrative ideas, general personal narrative essay ideas, college essay personal narrative ideas.

These personal narrative ideas urge students to dig into their past experiences and share them with their audience. Be sure to share the details, including what took place and how it made you feel, and anything you learned from the experience.

Describe a time when you:

• Were scared
• Overcame a big challenge
• Learned an important life lesson
• Had to make a difficult decision

• Were proud of a friend or family member
• Did something you didn’t want to and ended up liking it
• Met a celebrity or someone you really admire
• Tried something new
• Made a mistake and had to apologize and/or fix the mistake
• Were in danger
• Helped someone in need
• Had a dream come true
• Felt inspired
• Had a really terrible day

• Were a leader
• Made someone else laugh
• Did something you later regretted
• Set a goal and achieved it

These essay topics explore the times you did something for the first time ever, or when you were the best version of yourself.

• Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.

• Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
• Tell about your proudest moment.
• What is your happiest memory?
• What is your earliest memory?
• Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
• What’s the best (or worst!) vacation you’ve ever taken?
• Tell the story of the time you got your first pet.
• Describe your favorite field trip of all time.
• Tell the story of your first day of kindergarten.
• What’s the best meal you’ve ever eaten?
• Describe the best party or celebration you’ve ever attended.
• Tell about the first time someone ever paid you for work (first job, chores for a neighbor, babysitting, etc.) and how it made you feel.

• Describe the first time you spent a night away from home without your family.
• What’s the best gift you’ve ever been given?

Here are more personal narrative topics to inspire young writers.

• Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
• Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
• Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.
• Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
• Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.

• Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
• What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
• Describe your morning routine from the time you wake up until the moment the school bell rings to start the day.
• Share what you do on a typical non-school day.
• Tell about a time when you were injured. How did it happen?
• Describe an argument you and a friend had and how you resolved it.
• Tell about what you think your life will be like when you’re 25 years old.
• Explore a time when you felt you were treated unfairly.
• What makes your family different from everyone else’s family?
• If you could relive any day in your life, what would it be? Would you want it to be the same or different?

These personal narrative essay topics all come from real 2022–2023 college applications. ( See more college essay prompts here. )

• Discuss a time when reflection or introspection led to clarity or understanding of an issue that is important to you.
• Share an example of how you have used your own critical-thinking skills on a specific subject, project, idea, or interest.

• Using your personal, academic, or volunteer/work experiences, describe the topics or issues that you care about and why they are important to you.
• Reflect on a personal experience where you intentionally expanded your cultural awareness.
• When was the last time you questioned something you had thought to be true?
• Reflect on a time when you or someone you observed had to make a choice about whether to act with integrity and honesty.
• Describe an example of your leadership experience in which you have positively influenced others, helped resolve disputes, or contributed to group efforts over time.
• Describe a time when you were challenged by a perspective that differed from your own. How did you respond?
• Elaborate on an activity or experience you have had that made an impact on a community that is important to you.

• Describe any meaningful travel experiences you’ve had.
• Choose one of the communities to which you belong, and describe that community and your place within it.
• What is the greatest compliment you have ever been given? Why was it meaningful to you?
• What has been your best academic experience in the last two years, and what made it so good?
• Describe a time when you’ve felt empowered or represented by an educator.
• Describe how you have taken advantage of a significant educational opportunity or worked to overcome an educational barrier you have faced.

What are your favorite personal narrative ideas? Come share on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook.

Plus, check out the big list of essay topics for high school (100+ ideas) ., you might also like.

15 Inspiring Personal Narrative Examples for Writers

Reveal a part of yourself in your essay. Continue Reading

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100+ Narrative Writing Prompts: Beyond Writer’s Block

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on August 22, 2023

Categories Writing

You’re staring at a blank page, aren’t you? Don’t worry. We’ve all been there.

Narrative writing prompts can be your lifeline, sparking creativity when you need it most. In this article, we’ll explore different types of prompts and how to use them effectively.

So let’s dive in – because the world is waiting for your story!

Key Takeaways

• Narrative writing prompts are like cryptic maps, guiding imagination towards uncharted territories of creativity.
• Prompt analysis is crucial; every word and phrase should be dissected carefully.
• Crafting a seamless narrative flow is important, with a clear introduction, plot development, and conclusion.
• Narrative writing prompts encourage experimentation with styles and perspectives, fueling the artistry of storytelling.

100 Narrative Writing Prompts

Here are 100 narrative writing prompts organized by theme:

• Write about your earliest childhood memory.
• Describe a memorable event or celebration with your family or friends.
• Narrate a funny experience you had as a child.
• Tell the story of a major accomplishment or success in your life.
• Share about an experience that impacted or changed your life.

Relationships

• Write about a meaningful experience you had with a close friend or family member.
• Describe a time you and your friends did something mischievous.
• Tell about a difficult experience that brought you closer to a loved one.
• Share about a time you disappointed or hurt someone close to you.
• Narrate the events of a memorable date or romantic moment.
• Describe your favorite place in nature and what makes it so special.
• Write about a memorable trip or vacation.
• Narrate what you did during your last visit to an amusement park or theme park.
• Share about a place from your childhood that was very significant to you.
• Tell about getting lost in an unfamiliar place.
• Write about a time you tried something new that didn’t go as planned. What did you learn?
• Describe a moment when you overcame a fear or conquered a challenge.
• Narrate a difficult experience that taught you an important lesson.
• Share about a time you failed at something and how you responded.
• Tell about a major obstacle you faced and how you overcame it.

Imagination

• Make up a story about finding a magic lamp with a genie inside who grants you three wishes.
• Imagine you woke up one morning with a superpower. What would it be and how would you use it?
• Suppose you could travel back in time. What time period would you visit and why?
• Describe a day in the life of your pet in great detail.
• Narrate an adventure you have in an imaginary world.

Accomplishments

• Tell the story of how you learned a new skill.
• Describe your experience participating in a sports team or club.
• Narrate the events leading up to winning an award or honor.
• Share about a time one of your talents was recognized.
• Write about a major goal you worked hard to accomplish.
• Imagine you woke up to find your home was built atop a magical portal to another world. What happens next?
• Narrate an adventure you have in the wild west.
• Tell the story of being stuck on a deserted island alone. How do you survive?
• Describe an unexpected detour on a road trip that led to adventure.
• Share about a time you got lost in a new city.
• Describe the experience of a “first” in your life – first day of school, first dance, first date, etc.
• Tell about a memorable experience from your teenage years.
• Share about a time as a child when you pushed against rules or boundaries.
• Narrate the events of the first time you were left home alone.
• Write about a right of passage in your family history.
• Describe a moment when you felt brave in the face of fear.
• Tell about a time you stood up for someone else.
• Share a story of how you advocated for yourself.
• Narrate an experience that required perseverance or grit to get through.
• Write about a hardship that made you stronger.
• Tell the story of a mysterious or unexplained event you experienced.
• Describe a time you uncovered a family secret or mystery.
• Narrate about getting lost in a new city and piecing together how to get home.
• Share about a moment when you solved a puzzle or mystery.
• Write about finding something buried in your backyard. What was it?
• Describe an experience where you made an incorrect assumption about someone.
• Tell about a time someone gave you valuable life advice.
• Share a story about a difficult choice you had to make.
• Narrate an experience that taught you to think independently.
• Write about a moment you realized you were wrong about something.
• Describe your favorite season and what you love about it.
• Tell about getting caught in a storm while doing an outdoor activity.
• Share a story about an encounter with wildlife on a hike or trip.
• Narrate your experiences camping overnight in the wilderness.
• Write about a time you felt connected to nature.
• Describe an act of kindness or generosity you did for someone.
• Tell about a time someone helped you when you really needed it.
• Share a story about volunteering or contributing to a cause important to you.
• Narrate a moment when you stood up for or defended someone.
• Write about a person who had an influence on you because of their good character.

Possessions

• Describe your most valued childhood possession.
• Tell the story of how you got your first car.
• Share about a time you lost an item that was very special to you.
• Narrate your experience buying your first home.
• Write about an item you inherited that has sentimental value.

Entertainment

• Describe the plot of a book or movie that had an impact on you.
• Tell about a concert or live show you attended.
• Share the story of the first time you rode a rollercoaster.
• Narrate your experience meeting someone famous.
• Write about a vacation to an amusement park.
• Describe the experience of trying an exotic new food for the first time.
• Tell the story of a memorable family meal from your childhood.
• Share about a time you tried to cook something ambitious.
• Narrate the events of eating at a famous restaurant or visiting a food market in another country.
• Write about attempting to bake a complicated recipe.
• Describe your experience playing a sport you were new to.
• Tell about a time you won a sports match or game.
• Share the events leading up to a bad sports injury.
• Narrate your feelings playing in a championship game.
• Write about teaching someone else a sport for the first time.
• Describe your experience getting lost in an unfamiliar place.
• Tell about a meaningful trip you took by yourself.
• Share the story of a family vacation from your childhood.
• Narrate your feelings upon arriving in a new country for the first time.
• Write about a trip that did not go as expected.
• Describe your first day at a new school.
• Tell about a teacher who had an impact on you.
• Share a story about a challenging course or class you took.
• Narrate the events of a school field trip gone wrong.
• Write about your high school graduation day.
• Describe a difficult period or circumstance in your life.
• Tell about a time you failed at an important task.
• Share the story of a hardship that brought your family together.
• Narrate a moment when you stood up to bullying or criticism.
• Write about dealing with the loss of a loved one.

Understanding Narrative Writing Prompts

You’ve got to understand narrative writing prompts thoroughly before you can craft a compelling story. Imagine them as cryptic maps, guiding your imagination towards uncharted territories of creativity.

The key here is prompt analysis; it’s your compass. You need to decode the prompt, dissecting every word and phrase carefully. Don’t just skim through it; delve deeper.

When you finally comprehend its essence, you’re ready for the next step: creating a seamless narrative flow.

Picture your tale as a river, starting from the source (the introduction), meandering through landscapes (plot development) and finally reaching the sea (conclusion). Every twist and turn should feel natural yet surprising, adding depth and intrigue that keeps your readers hooked till the end.

Now go ahead! Unleash your storytelling prowess!

The Importance of Narrative Writing Prompts

They’re crucial tools for sparking your imagination and enhancing your storytelling abilities. Narrative writing prompts serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path towards creative brilliance.

You see, these prompts impact you more than you might realize. They coax out narratives from hidden corners of your mind, pushing boundaries and exploring new territories of thought.

Imagine holding an artist’s palette filled with words instead of colors. Storytelling techniques become your brushstrokes, shaping raw ideas into compelling narratives. The prompt stands as your canvas waiting to be adorned by tales spun from creativity’s loom.

It encourages experimentation with narrative styles and perspectives – it fuels the artistry in writing stories that resonate deeply with readers.

Different Types of Narrative Writing Prompts

Let’s delve into the various kinds of story starters that can ignite your creative spark. Narrative writing prompts are diverse and tailored to stimulate creativity while ensuring prompt relevance. They cater to different narrative styles, each providing a unique approach to storytelling.

• Situation-based Prompts : These offer scenarios or situations, nudging you towards conflict resolution.
• Dialogue Starters: You’re given an interesting conversation starter.
• Quotation Based: A quote is provided for interpretation and story development.
• Imaginary Prompts : Pushing boundaries, these prompts require imaginative solutions.
• ‘What If’ Scenarios: You’re encouraged to explore alternative realities.
• Picture-Based: Images serve as the foundation for your narrative.

How to Utilize Narrative Writing Prompts Effectively

Mastering the art of using these creative triggers effectively can significantly improve your storytelling skills. It’s all about prompt interpretation and flexibility.

You see, each narrative writing prompt is a world teeming with possibilities; it’s up to you to explore them.

First, don’t just skim the surface of the prompt. Dive into its depths, examining every word and phrase for hidden meanings or potential plot twists. That’s what we call ‘Prompt Interpretation’.

Next comes ‘Prompt Flexibility’. Don’t be confined by the initial image that pops into your mind upon reading the prompt. Let your imagination run wild, twisting and turning the scenario until you’ve moulded it into something uniquely yours.

Creative Ideas for Narrative Writing Prompts

Exploring fresh and innovative ideas for storytelling triggers can really open up a new world of creativity in your work. Diving into genre exploration, you’re not just confined to what you know; you’re pushing boundaries, experimenting with different elements from various genres.

• Genre Exploration:
• Mystery : How about crafting a protagonist with an uncanny ability to solve puzzles?
• Fantasy : Ever thought of creating a world where dreams become reality?

In character development, there’s no limit to the layers you can add to make them more relatable and captivating.

• Character Development:
• Backstories : Have you considered giving your characters intricate pasts that shape their decisions?
• Traits : What if your character has an unusual but intriguing habit?

Dare to be inventive and engaging; it’ll give your narrative writing prompts an exciting twist.

Tips for Creating Your Own Narrative Writing Prompts

Dive headfirst into the world of narrative creation, where your personal experiences form the core and your creative thinking sketches the outline.

You’re about to unlock a profound understanding of narrative structure, using it as your compass to navigate through the intricate tapestry of storytelling.

Understanding Narrative Structure

Understanding narrative structure is crucial to creating captivating writing prompts. It’s a dance of narrative pacing techniques and character development strategies, choreographed to captivate your readers.

To master this dance:

• Understand narrative pacing techniques.
• Use cliffhangers: They’re not just for soap operas! A well-placed cliffhanger can add suspense and keep readers hooked.
• Vary sentence lengths: Short sentences speed up the pace, while longer ones slow it down.
• Implement character development strategies.
• Show, don’t tell: Instead of telling us your character is brave, show us with their actions.
• Develop compelling backstories: These give depth to your characters and make them more relatable.

Incorporating Personal Experiences

Incorporating personal experiences into your storytelling can often add authenticity and depth to your characters. It’s like infusing a part of yourself into the narrative, making it more tangible and relatable for your readers. The emotional impact hits home, painting vivid pictures that they can connect with on a deeper level.

Your own journey of personal growth also becomes their journey. They feel your triumphs, your struggles, every high and low you’ve encountered along the way. You’re not just creating characters; you’re offering them pieces from your own life story that breathe life into these figures.

Promoting Creative Thinking

Fostering your creative thinking isn’t just about brainstorming ideas; it’s also about embracing different perspectives to enrich your storytelling. Exploring imaginative techniques and enhancing cognitive flexibility are key components of this process.

Here are some ways you can promote creative thinking:

• Experiment with different narrative styles
• Try writing in first, second, or third person
• Use a nonlinear timeline
• Enhance cognitive flexibility by exploring new concepts
• Read books from various genres
• Challenge yourself with complex puzzles

By broadening your horizons and stepping outside of your comfort zone, you’re not only developing as a writer but also as an individual.

Examples of Inspiring Narrative Writing Prompts

Let’s delve into some examples of inspiring narrative writing prompts that can ignite your creativity and fuel your passion for storytelling.

Imagine you’re an astronaut, but not just any astronaut – the first to land on a newly discovered planet. Explore this through different narrative perspectives; how does the world look from your eyes? From the perspective of Earth’s spectators?

Or consider this: you’ve stumbled upon a secret door in your home leading to a parallel universe. Dive deep into character development as you toggle between two realities. How do these experiences shape and change you?

Ever thought about waking up one day with everyone else vanished? Sketch out the loneliness, fear, joy, and freedom that come with solitude.

Let these prompts guide your pen towards uncharted territories where stories bloom.

So, you’ve explored the world of narrative writing prompts! Remember, they’re not just tools to spark creativity but a way to deepen your writing skills.

Whether it’s personal narratives or fictional tales, these prompts can transform your storytelling. Don’t be afraid to experiment and craft your own.

Now, go on and weave those captivating stories waiting to burst from within you!

Narrative Essays: Examples And Topic Ideas For Students

Writing a narrative essay is a great way to share your life with others. Here, we’ll explore topics that will set you up to write a great narrative essay.

If you’re searching for a list of personal narrative essay topics, you’re likely writing a middle school, high school, or college essay. A personal narrative describes your life experience, usually from the first-person point of view.

There are many different approaches to take to writing a narrative essay. Good narrative essay topics are engaging and can be either serious or silly. A personal narrative is not an argument essay or a persuasive essay; rather, it tells a story from your point of view.

Narrative essay writers are constantly on the lookout for things that happen in their lives that teach a lesson, make a point, or tell a funny story. When brainstorming for the best topic for your narrative essay, think about something that happened in your life that you love sharing with others, and work to translate your story into written prose that will hook your readers.

Here, we’ll explore some of the best narrative essay topic examples and ideas, helping you get your writing started right.

For help with your essays, check out our round-up of the best essay checkers

Narrative Essay Examples

1. the power of potstickers by lauren brown, 2. everyone should have a best friend 30 years older than them by lucy holden, 3. all it takes is a small act of kindness by maddie huiras, 4. a reflection on working in labor & delivery by dr. amos grunebaum, md, 5. pressures of being a first generation american-born citizen by helen bezikyan, narrative essay topic ideas, 1. your first day of high school, 2. how you met your best friend, 3. your best birthday party, 4. your favorite (or most difficult) childhood memory, 5. your most embarrassing moment, 6. how you made a difficult decision, 7. an act of kindness, 8. a tribute to your first pet.

Although I find the exact measurements of recipes comforting, I do my best to add a pinch of this and a dash of that in my meals every so often. It’s how I get to go outside my comfort zone every day. And I see in myself a newfound wisdom: it’s ok to go off the beaten path, you can experiment, compromise can lead to something new and beautiful. My mother’s cooking taught me that and I expect to bring that with me wherever I may go.

In this food-based tribute to her mother’s ingenuity, Brown discusses important family memories while sharing lessons from her mother that she now carries through everyday life. The combination of rich descriptive language with an explanation of how the experience of cooking with her mother shaped her life draws the reader in, helping them to feel like they’re in the kitchen with Brown and her mother.

In short, we adopted each other as confidants and met regularly to discuss life in general. He was more supportive than anyone else I met during the whole three years and stepped out of his remit to give me tailored advice that definitely helped me to get a job in journalism. It was clear from the start that he cared more about what was right for me than what was right for the university league tables, perhaps because he actually knew me. When I told him I was worried that the long days I was doing in the student newspaper office would take a toll on my degree, he told me I could get a first if I wanted one, but thought the student paper stuff would help my career much more. 

It can be hard to find a friend who knows you better than yourself, and Holden discusses that phenomenon in their essay on friendship. She discusses how her friend affected her life during their time together and how he affected her after being separated by distance. In this narrative essay, the author works to describe the feelings she experienced through the ups and downs of their friendship, writing about universal truths that all humans experience in relationships. 

Throughout his life, he had gotten used to dealing with Dyskeratosis congenita, and as life went on, he eventually developed cancer; but even while battling cancer, my dad showed kindness. In fact, on the night before he passed away, even though he knew he wouldn’t be with us for much longer, he tried his best to focus on the positive stuff. 

In this essay, Huiras reflects on the life and death of her father and celebrates his commitment to kindness to others throughout his life. While Huiras narrates the events that led to her father’s death, she also describes how his actions and character significantly affect her life, helping her grow into the woman she wants to be.

Labor & Delivery is getting tears in your eyes when you watch a couple you’ve connected with welcome their baby into the world. Even though you’ve just met and will likely never see each other again, there’s something special about sharing that experience that makes you feel like you’ve known each other forever. Labor & Delivery is a place full of opposites. A woman grieving a devastating loss can be in the room next door to a family celebrating a new addition and 14-year-old mother can be in the room next door to a 45-year-old mother. Regardless of the circumstances, each family that walks through the L&D doors will be forever changed.

In this essay on life behind the doors of the delivery room, Dr. Grunebaum shares what it’s like to both celebrate and grieve with families and how difficult it can be to manage both the chaos and joy that comes with the birth process. If you choose to write an essay about a process so personal as birth, leave out any details that could identify the people involved, as Grunebaum does in this essay. 

The struggles that come with having immigrant parents may include constant seeking of approval, always having to be responsible, as well as immigrant parents discussing the future that they may have already planned for their child. More often than not, immigrant parents constantly remind their child, or children that they expect big and great things from them in the future, which is part of why they came to this country.

In this essay, Bezikyan discusses the unique pressures of being a first-generation American-born citizen. In addition to offering her perspective, she also offers the opinions of others in similar circumstances. This helps to support her opinion and help others see the shared experience of people born to immigrant parents.

Whether you’re a college or high school student, you likely remember your first day of high school—stepping away from middle school and becoming a young adult. The first day of high school is rife with emotion, and describing your experience can provide your reader with an interesting perspective on how you deal with transition and change.

When describing the big day, use details. Explain how you felt as you walked toward the door, how you felt when you struggled to find your classes, and what it was like opening your new locker for the first time. As you write, you may find it helpful to avoid technical details (like the minute-to-minute scheduling of your classes) and instead focus on unique or tough moments or how accomplished you felt by the end of the day.

Your best friend has been there for you through thick and thin, and writing about how the two of you met can be a fun narrative essay topic, no matter your age or writing level.

As you tell the story of how you met your best friend, describe how your connection grew over time. Perhaps you were thick as thieves right away, or you needed some time to realize that you’d met a lifelong friend. For some inspiration, reach out to your best friend and ask them what they remember from the day you met—it can be fun and fresh to get their perspective on how your first meeting went.

Birthdays are a time to celebrate, and writing about a particularly excellent birthday can be a great topic for your narrative essay. When discussing your best birthday party, include all details, including who you invited, what you ate, and how you celebrated with family and friends.

You may also want to talk about why that particular birthday was so meaningful to you. If it was a landmark birthday (like your sweet 16) or a special event (like your last birthday party at home before you left for college), be sure to mention this, so your reader understands why this event was so significant in your life.

There’s no way around it: traumatic things happen in childhood, and wonderful things happen. Writing about childhood memories can be relatable and provide an instant connection with your readers.

When choosing a favorite childhood memory to write about, think back to memorable times in your life because they’re connected with strong emotions. Perhaps you want to write about when your baby sibling came home from the hospital or your first baseball game.

If you choose to write about a difficult childhood memory, the process for choosing a topic is still the same. Think back to a childhood memory that evokes strong emotion. While writing about a negative childhood memory can be an excellent way to write a compelling personal essay, it can also bring up challenging thoughts and may feel traumatic.

Have a particular time that made you red in the face? Writing about an embarrassing moment is relatable and can provide a humorous topic for your narrative essay.

When writing about your embarrassing moment, it can be helpful if you’re willing to laugh at yourself and find the humor in the situation you went through. Be sure to describe what happened from start to finish, painting a clear picture of the moment for your readers. Describe your emotions as the embarrassing moment occurred, and talk about what happened after the moment was over.

Wrestling with a difficult decision can feel impossible at the moment, and reflecting on the experience of making a difficult decision to your readers can make for an excellent narrative essay topic.

When you’re talking about a difficult decision in your narrative essay, give plenty of background information so that the reader fully understands why you’re wrestling with a tough choice. Don’t give away your decision at the start of the essay; rather, take the reader through your thought process as you had to decide what to do.

Sharing an act of kindness you did with someone else—or a random act of kindness that someone did for you—can provide a warm, fuzzy topic for your narrative essay. When writing about an act of kindness, focus on how the act made you feel, whether you were the giver or the receiver of the act.

Much like writing about meeting your best friend for the first time, it can be helpful to talk about your state of mind before and after the act of kindness occurred. Perhaps you were going through a tough time, and the act of kindness helped to boost your mood. Explaining the emotions that came with the act of kindness and the facts of the situation can help your reader feel connected to your story.

Whether you have a dog, a cat, or something more exotic, many readers will be able to connect with the love that a kid has for their first pet. When writing a narrative essay about your first pet, please explain how you felt the first time you laid eyes on them. This may mean describing when they were first presented to you as a kitten or a puppy or the first time you saw your older rescue pet.

Talk about the qualities you loved most about your pet, whether that was their ability to comfort you after a bad day or how they were never too old or tired to go outside and play frisbee. Focus both on the descriptive qualities of your pet that allow your reader to imagine what they looked like and the emotional qualities that keep your first pet near and dear to your heart to this day.

If you have a pet currently, you can mention them in your narrative essay about your first pet, talking about their qualities that remind you of your first pet. While it can tug at your heartstrings to describe the memory of your first pet, writing about the love you have for an animal is nearly universally relatable, and your readers will love hearing about your fond memories of your furry friend.

Tip: If writing an essay sounds like a lot of work, simplify it. Write a simple 5 paragraph essay instead.

If you’re still stuck, check out our available resources for  essay writing topics .

Bryan Collins is the owner of Become a Writer Today. He's an author from Ireland who helps writers build authority and earn a living from their creative work. He's also a former Forbes columnist and his work has appeared in publications like Lifehacker and Fast Company.

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50 Creative Narrative Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Imagination

• February 21, 2024
• Freelancing Tips

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What is narrative writing, best creative narrative writing prompts for elementary, creative narrative writing prompts for high school, creative narrative writing prompts middle school, narrative writing prompts for students, fictional narrative writing prompts, recommendations.

Prompts for creative narrative writing are effective instruments that stimulate writers’ imaginations and foster creativity.

These writing prompts provide authors a place to start as they build captivating stories by letting them experiment with different characters, settings, and storylines.

They allow carrying the story in unexpected places while simultaneously establishing a structure for storytelling.

Through the use of creative narrative writing prompts, authors are forced to step outside of their comfort zones and try out different genres and styles.

These writing prompts might assist overcome writer’s block by generating original ideas and offering a novel viewpoint on narrative.

For writers who want to improve their craft and broaden their storytelling abilities, creative narrative writing prompts are a useful resource. They can be utilized as daily exercises or as inspiration for longer projects.

This article has a compilation of over 50 Creative Narrative Writing Prompts to Ignite Your Imagination. Check them out!

Narrative writing is a powerful tool that allows writers to create compelling stories that captivate readers and evoke emotional responses.

It does more than just retell events; instead, it digs deeply into the motivations, feelings, and ideas of the characters to weave a complex tapestry of experiences that the audience can fully immerse themselves in.

Authors can take readers to other places, eras, and points of view through narrative writing, allowing them to experience the world from a fresh perspective.

The capacity of narrative writing to emotionally connect with readers is one of its fundamental features. Writers can create a sensory experience that engrosses readers and gives them a sense of participation in the story by skillfully combining descriptive language with vivid pictures.

In addition to keeping readers engaged in the narrative, this emotional connection helps them sympathize with the characters and their hardships, which promotes a better comprehension of human emotions and experiences.

Narrative writing, at its core, is a transforming process that allows people to share a common story, so bridging gaps between them. It is more than just storytelling.

By creating gripping narratives with vivid characters and captivating storylines, authors can influence readers’ opinions, pose provocative questions, and motivate behaviour changes.

Read ALSO: 107+ Creative Writing Prompts For Middle School Students

Why use Creative Narrative Writing Prompts?

For writers of all skill levels, creative narrative writing prompts are an indispensable resource that provide a host of advantages.

• Inspiration: Writing exercises offer a springboard for ideas or a starting point. They can serve as an inspiration to authors who are having trouble coming up with ideas or experiencing writer’s block.
• Exploration: Authors are encouraged by prompts to write about themes, genres, people, and places that they might not have otherwise thought of. This investigation expands writing horizons and stimulates creativity.
• Practice: Developing one’s writing skills requires consistent practice. Writing prompts provide writers with organized chances to hone their narrative, character, dialogue, and descriptive writing abilities.
• Flexibility: Prompts can be modified to accommodate different writing objectives and tastes. They can serve as starting points for longer projects or as quick exercises or stories.
• Overcoming Fear: The blank page might terrify some authors. It’s simpler to get started writing when you have a direction and are less anxious thanks to prompts.
• Writing prompts promote experimenting with various narrative approaches, vocabularies, and styles. It’s a low-stakes setting where writers can push themselves.
• Building Community: Prompts are a typical beginning point for group activities in many writing communities and workshops. Writing prompt responses to one another promotes writerly friendship, feedback, and teamwork.
• Talent Development: Writers can hone particular writing abilities, such as world-building, pacing, character development, and story structure, by taking on a variety of prompts.
• Productivity: By offering daily or weekly ideas to keep authors motivated and accountable, writing prompts can assist writers in developing a regular writing habit.
• Self-Reflection: Writing responses to various prompts and investigating them can help authors gain a deeper awareness of their own passions, assets, and areas in need of development.
• Write a story about a character who looks in their backyard and finds a secret portal to another realm.
• Tell the tale of a person who wakes up and has to put together what happened after losing all recollection of the previous twenty-four hours.
• Envision a society in which feelings are traded like goods. What impact does this have on everyday life and relationships?
• Write a story about a time traveller who has to undo the effects of unintentionally altering a momentous historical event.
• Tell the story of a group of survivors surviving in a post-apocalyptic world where machines have taken over sentience.
• Write a story that takes place in a universe where everyone, save the protagonist, is born with a special magical skill.
• Describe a civilization in which dreams are valued as commodities. What occurs if someone exhausts themselves?
• Write a story about a character who inherits an ancient, enigmatic mansion that is haunted by the ghosts of its previous owners.
• Describe the experience of someone who finds they have the capacity to speak with animals.
• In a future where humanity has colonized other worlds, imagine the unanticipated difficulties that arise from otherworldly cultures.

Read ALSO: Chinese vs Japanese Writing: A Side-by-Side Comparison

For high school students, here are interesting creative narrative writing prompts for them:

• Write about a world where music is forbidden, and one individual dares to defy the ban.
• Describe a character who possesses the power to bring their drawings to life.
• Tell the tale of a scientist who accidentally creates a potion that grants immortality.
• Create a story set in a dystopian society where citizens’ thoughts are monitored and controlled by the government.
• Write about a group of adventurers on a quest to retrieve a legendary artefact that holds the key to saving their kingdom.
• Imagine a world where mythical creatures coexist with humans, but their existence is threatened by environmental changes.
• Describe a character who discovers they can manipulate time, but soon realizes the consequences of their actions.
• Tell the story of a person who finds a map leading to a hidden treasure buried deep in the jungle.
• Write about a city where the streets come alive at night with magic and mystery.
• Imagine a future where robots have replaced humans in the workforce, leading to widespread unemployment and social unrest.
• Describe a character who can see glimpses of the future but struggles with the burden of knowing what’s to come.
• Tell the tale of a group of unlikely allies brought together by fate to overthrow a tyrannical ruler.
• Create a story set in a world where everyone is born with a tattoo that reveals their destiny.
• Write about a person who discovers they have the ability to enter books and interact with the characters within.
• Imagine a society where people are sorted into factions based on their personality traits, and one individual doesn’t fit into any category.
• Describe a character who, unless they can end the cycle, is cursed to repeat the same day again and over.
• Describe the tale of a sorcerer who finds out they are the last in a long line of people whose job it is to keep the world safe from evil.
• Write about a future in which humans can upload their consciousness into virtual reality thanks to advancements in technology.
• In a future where humanity is forced to find a new home among the stars because Earth is no longer livable, picture this.
• Describe a character that has the capacity to hear other people’s thoughts but finds it difficult to control this power.
• Tell the story of a person who discovers a mystery thing that gives them amazing skills but has a fatal cost.
• Write a tale about a town where everyone lives with a secret, and a newcomer poses a threat to them all.
• Write a narrative about a party of adventurers who discover a lost civilization beneath the ocean.
• Imagine a society in which magic exists but is forbidden by a dishonest administration.
• Tell the story of a character who finds they are the one chosen to vanquish an evil that has been threatening the planet for a long time.

Read ALSO: 140 Exclusive Writing Prompts For Adults

• Tell the tale of a person who can travel between parallel universes and who has to deal with the fallout from their decisions in each one.
• Write about a civilization in which recollections are traded, bought, and sold on the underground market.
• In a world where sickness has been abolished by genetic engineering, imagine also that there is a difference between those who are genetically modified and those who are not.
• Describe a character who, upon the full moon, is cursed to change into a new beast.
• Tell the story of a rebel group that is up against an oppressive government that has complete control over society.
• Write a story that takes place in a world where everyone, save the protagonist, has a guardian angel.
• Write a story about a person who finds a hidden underground metropolis that is home to surviving members of a vanished civilization.
• In a future in which sentient robots and humans coexist, imagine a situation in which a single person befriends an AI.
• Describe a character who can telekinesis but finds it difficult to control.
• Tell the tale of a person who discovers a doorway to a different dimension and has to avoid its perils to return home.
• Write about a civilization in which reading is outlawed and one person goes to great lengths to protect literature and information.
• Imagine a society in which the government rigorously regulates time travel, yet it is still possible.
• Describe a character who learns they are descended from a mythical hero and that they have to live up to their destiny.
• Tell the story of someone who, overnight, acquires the ability to speak every language in the world.
• Write a tale that takes place in a future when global warming has wreaked havoc on the environment and people must adjust to survive in a hostile new environment.

Read ALSO: 50 Exclusive 4th Grade Writing Prompts That Are Printable For Free

Here are some fictional narrative writing prompts to inspire your storytelling:

Lost in Time: A young archaeologist finds an antiquated relic that allows them to travel back in time to a crucial historical period. They must avoid the perils of the past and learn the truth about the artifact’s enigmatic beginnings as they attempt to travel back in time.

The Forbidden Library: A curious adolescent discovers a hidden library full of knowledge that is prohibited in a society where books are outlawed. They discover a plot that has the potential to destroy their society as they investigate its mysteries further.

The Carnival of Dreams: Every year, an enigmatic carnival makes an appearance in the town and promises to fulfill its guests’ wildest dreams. But the magic of the carnival has a sinister cost, as a group of friends quickly learns.

The woodland Guardian: A lone guardian keeps the last remaining woodland in a realm beset by darkness safe from harm. However, the guardian must go out on a treacherous quest to defend their home and bring the land back into balance as a vicious tyrant threatens to completely destroy the forest.

The Clockwork City: A young inventor discovers a plot that might topple the ruling class of the steampunk metropolis, which is run by clockwork and steam. They have to uncover the truth before it’s too late, with the aid of a courageous journalist and a former robber.

The Memory Thief: A young girl learns she has the ability to take memories from other people in a world where memories are traded for money. But she has to go on a perilous journey to recover a memory that could save her dying sister when she unintentionally takes it, lest it be lost forever.

The Starlight Academy: A group of youngsters realize they have tremendous powers beyond their wildest imaginations at a prestigious academy for talented students. However, when they learn the dark secrets of the academy, they will need to work together to fend off an impending threat to both themselves and their world.

Creative narrative writing prompts are designed to stimulate creativity and inspire writers to explore new ideas and storylines.

For additional tips, guides, and resources on honing your narrative writing skills, explore our website’s blog section dedicated to helping writers unlock their full potential.

Of course! Feel free to share your creations with friends, family, or online communities to showcase your talent and receive feedback from fellow writers.

You can use these prompts as often as you like—daily, weekly, or whenever you feel stuck or in need of inspiration for your next story.

By using narrative writing prompts, you can practice storytelling, character development, and plot creation, ultimately enhancing your overall writing abilities.

Whether you’re an experienced writer looking for new ideas or a novice writer eager to explore different genres, these prompts will kindle a fire inside of you that can only be put out by writing the most captivating stories you can imagine. So grab a seat, reader, and join us as we explore this wealth of storytelling gems that are just waiting to be unearthed and brought to life by your vivid imagination.

• Vibrantteaching.com – 20 prompts for narrative writing that spark creativity
• Kindlepreneur.com – Narrative writing prompts
• 50 Exclusive 4th Grade Writing Prompts That Are Printable For Free
• 140 Exclusive Writing Prompts For Adults
• 107+ Creative Writing Prompts For Middle School Students
• Chinese vs Japanese Writing: A Side-by-Side Comparison

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164 Narrative Essay Topics for School & College Students

A narrative essay tells a story about a series of events. At the core of this kind of essay can be a personal experience or a fictional plot. Any story can be a basis for a narrative essay!

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

Narratives can look similar to descriptions. Still, they are different. A descriptive essay aims to explain the details of a specific moment. Narrative writing focuses on a sequence of events to tell a complete story.

In this article, we have prepared a list of narrative essay topics for high school, college, and university students. The topic ideas are divided by spheres. In the collection below, you’ll find the ideas based on personal experience as well as fictional narrative essay topics. Make use of resources offered by our custom writing experts to write any paper!

• 🔝 Top 10 Topics
• 📖 Fictional Topics
• 🧑✍️ Personal Narrative
• ✈️ Traveling
• 🧒 Elementary

✏️ Middle School

🧑‍🏫 high school.

• 👫 Relationships
• 🧸 Childhood
• 💡 Writing Guide and Tips

🔝 Top 10 Narrative Essay Topics: High School

• Your childhood role model
• How you overcame hardship
• The best news you have ever heard
• The time you experienced culture shock
• A story of how you mistreated someone
• The most memorable encounter you’ve had
• An unexpected event that changed your life
• The most embarrassing conversation you’ve had
• When you realized you were wrong in an argument
• A person who changed your opinion on something

📖 Fictional Narrative Essay Topics

The art of writing fiction is all about narrating a story. In a fictional narrative, you are free to create a tale that doesn’t relate to real life. Take a look at the fictional narrative essay topics below:

• Write a narrative where a girl discovers her superpower.
• A story about a land that has 25 hours in a day.
• Describe your version of the future .
• Fiction narrative where a person discovers big city life.
• Come up with an apocalyptic story.
• A group of scientists discovering a new world inside the Earth.

• Write about a hamster that prevented a house robbery .
• A person who saves the country from mass-produced poisoned food .
• A group of high school students helping to improve their city.
• A new civilization in a far away galaxy.
• Write about a grandfather who was secretly a spy.
• A narrative about a person waking up from the surgery with a different identity .
• Create a story about a mysterious musical instrument .
• A college student who won the presidential election .
• Compose a story about a painting that looks different in every new house.
• An anonymous person sends lots of money to the poor.
• Come up with a fictional narrative about a family with unusual tendencies.
• A movie star who lives out their roles in real life.
• Passengers of an airplane encounter a UFO .
• A narrative where a farmer grows strange plants.
• Write about an orphan who finds out about their inheritance .
• Story of siblings who resolve a long-lasting argument.

🧑✍️ Personal Narrative Essay Topics

A personal narrative is devoted to the author’s own experience. Therefore, feel free to write in first person. Include your thoughts and emotions. Do your best to describe the details of your narrative. This will help the reader to relive the story with you. Here is the list of excellent topic ideas for your essay:

• Memories of your first sports coach .
• A story of how you dyed your hair.
• Write about something you did against your parents’ will.
• Recall a day when you got in a fight with your best friend .
• What was the most exciting adventure in your life?
• An unfortunate situation that had a good ending.
• Write about the time when you had to train hard for a competition.
• Describe the turning point of your life.
• An experience when you had to overcome your fear.
• Write about the circumstances that brought you and your parents closer.
• Describe a memorable conversation with someone.

• An imaginary world you’ve created as a child.
• Who gave you the most valuable lesson in your life?
• One time when you regretted doing something.
• A particularly embarrassing situation you went through.
• Your memories of seeing something very beautiful .
• A moment that made you proud of yourself.
• Recall a time when you taught a child to do something.
• What was the most memorable news report you saw in your life?
• Describe a day when you stood up for someone.
• Write about the best birthday party you’ve ever had.
• Share your experience of being lost.

📚 Literacy Narrative Essay Topics

Literacy narrative revolves around reflecting on feelings connected to reading and writing. For this type of essay, think of yourself as a reader and a writer. You can describe any reading experience, whether it is a book, email, or social media post.

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• The most touching piece of writing you’ve ever read.
• Write about a book that impacted you the most.
• A news article that changed your view on life.
• What book character do you most identify with?
• Talk about a piece of fiction that captured your imagination.
• What was your favorite novel growing up?
• The scariest story you’ve ever read.
• Recall your emotions after reading a heartfelt social media post.
• What is the most boring book you’ve read?
• Describe a book that you would reread over and over again.

• Your experience of reading a story to a child.
• Have you ever read something that taught you a lesson?
• Do you see yourself becoming a professional writer?
• Recall the day when you had to complete your first writing assignment.
• How does sharing thoughts on social media make you feel?
• If you were to write a book, who would be the main character?
• Talk about the most personal thing you’ve ever written.
• Describe your experience of composing a poem.
• Why can someone have difficulty with writing ?
• Recall what it was like to read for the first time.
• What does journaling mean to you?
• Have you ever been proud of something you wrote?

✈️ Narrative Essay Topics about Traveling

In this section, you get to engage your creativity! A narrative essay about traveling is supposed to show the reader what it’s like to explore the world. Present a story taking place in a real or imaginary location:

• Your first time traveling to another country.
• Friends taking a trip to the Great Canyon.
• Write a narrative about traveling to your dream location.
• Describe a trip to the Taj Mahal.
• A day-long road trip.
• Share your experience of visiting a historical site.
• Come up with a story about getting around the airport .
• What to do if you are lost in a foreign country?
• A day in the life of a flight attendant .
• Write about eating unusual foods from around the world.
• Describe talking to a local in a foreign language .
• A narrative about going on a seven-day cruise .
• Tell the reader about the most breathtaking view you’ve ever seen.
• Write a story about riding a train.
• A short narrative about an out-of-state road trip .

• Traveling to see your family on holidays.
• Come up with a narrative about hitchhiking across America.
• What is it like to travel in the air balloon?
• How to prepare for a trip around the world.
• What to do if your luggage got lost in a foreign country.
• Describe packing a suitcase for a long trip.
• A story about a person missing their plane.

🏫 Narrative Essay Topics about School

This section is for all grades! Writing a narrative essay about school gives you a chance to share your personal experience as a student. You can write about precious memories, challenges, or influential people in your school career. Pick one of the narrative essay topics about school from this list:

🧒 Elementary School

• Write a story with your favorite teacher as the main character.
• Describe your first day at school.
• A fun memory with your best friend.
• What is your favorite thing to do during a break?
• Tell your reader about something interesting you learned in class recently.
• A day when you had to leave school early.
• Recall your favorite celebration with classmates.
• Write about your favorite school subject.
• A story about your most unusual day at school.
• How did you bond with your classmates?
• Come up with narrative about a memorable event at the cafeteria .
• The last day of school before the summer break .
• One time when you forgot to bring something to the class.
• Describe how you worked on a science project.
• The most challenging class you took in middle school.
• A story of how you pranked a friend.
• Have you ever won a school competition?
• The day when you’ve decided on your future profession.
• Write about the teacher who impacted you the most.
• A story of a serious conversation you had about your grades .
• The day when you got in trouble with the principal .
• Reflect on a class you will never forget.

👫 Narrative Essay Topics about Relationships

Narrative essay about relationships focuses on presenting a story about connections between people. You can write about your family, friends, or loved ones. Make sure to pick a statement that you will expand on in your story. Use the following list of narrative writing topics to come up with your narrative about relationships.

• A conflict between generations .
• What is it like to be in love ?
• Write about how hatred can destroy relationships.
• Describe an example of loyalty.
• A story about maintaining friendship via social media .
• Come up with a narrative where people with opposite personalities are getting along.
• Tell the reader about somebody being generous.
• Write about a couple being honest with each other.
• A story where classmates treat each other with respect.
• Describe a family that maintains loving relationship no matter what.
• A story where you help somebody who used to be your enemy .
• How friendliness can brighten up a person’s day.
• Talk about the pain of ending a relationship .

• Children learning from their parents about empathy .
• A narrative about food connecting people.
• Come up with a story about unfulfilled expectations.
• The importance of authentic conversations in a friendship.
• What relational patterns do you see in your family?
• Manifestations of real love in everyday life.
• A story when someone makes a sacrifice for the sake of others.
• Describe a situation where parents are bonding with their child.
• Talk about the most meaningful relationship in your life.

🧸 Childhood Narrative Essay Topics

Childhood narrative essays are about sharing memories from the time when you were little. You can write about playing with friends or a day when you fell off the bike. Or, ask your family members to recall some episodes from your childhood.

• A story of how you received your nickname.
• Write about playing with your favorite toys.
• What is the most memorable place you went to when you were little?
• What kind of friends did you have when you were little?
• Did you ever break anything?
• Recall your earliest childhood memories.
• What was the first valuable lesson you’ve learned as a kid?
• Share your favorite childhood sports memory.
• A story of your first triumph.
• What did you enjoy doing when you were little?

• A moment from your childhood that your parents often recall.
• Which talents did you have when you were a child?
• What was it like to grow up with your siblings?
• Write a narrative about your favorite pet.
• The most memorable childhood moment with your family.
• Were there any challenges you had to overcome as a kid?
• What was your favorite children’s book ?
• Did you ever get lost when you were little?
• An exciting sleepover you had with friends.
• Write a story about how you and your friends went on an adventure.
• A family holiday that you will remember forever.
• What was your favorite food in your early years?

💡 Narrative Essay Writing Guide and Tips

As you already know, writing a narrative essay is very similar to telling a story. Here are a few tips to remember for narrative writing:

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• Tip 1: Use your memories. Take time to write down everything you can recall about the event. You can use it as a basis for your paper.
• Tip 2: Be clear. Stick to the main idea of the essay. It’s better not to add characters or details that are not relevant to the story you’re telling.
• Tip 3: Choose words carefully. In an essay words to are like paint on a canvas. The use of vivid language can help you create a story worth reading.

Now, pay attention to this step-by-step guide. It will help you outline an on-point narrative essay:

• Introduction. In the opening paragraph, determine the main idea of the paper. Make a clear thesis that reflects the purpose of your narrative. To help yourself with this part, you can try a narrative essay thesis generator .

In this essay, I want to share my happiest childhood memory of playing with my older brother.

• The body. Since you are writing the narrative essay as a story, make sure to tell the story well. Think through the plot with conflict, climax, and a powerful conclusion. Take your time to introduce the setting and the characters. All this will make your paper entertaining and easy to read.
• Conclusion. Bring your narrative to a logical end. Expanding on the thesis statement will help you write a great conclusion.

Playing with my older brother taught me the true meaning of family, and I’m very grateful for it.

We hope this article helped you figure out how to write a narrative essay!

You may be also interested in:

• How to Write a Narrative Essay: Easy Guide and Useful Tips
• How to Start an Autobiography about Yourself: Full Guide + Autobiography Examples
• How to Write a Creative Essay: Tips, Topics and Techniques
• Breaking Down the Types of Essays: a Complete Guide for Success

🔍 References

• Narrative Essays: Purdue University
• Nailing the Craft of Narrative Writing: WeAreTeachers
• Narrative and Reflection Writing Samples: Western Technical College
• Drafting a Narrative: Walden University
• Scholarly Personal Narrative: University of Vermont
• The Power of Personal Narratives in the Classroom: University of Washington
• Fiction Writing Basics: Purdue University
• How to Write a Literacy Narrative: Pen and the Pad
• Literacy Narratives: UNC Charlotte
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50 Fun Prompt Writing Ideas for High School Students

May 16, 2023

Students either love or hate writing. Those who love it usually are the ones who enjoy reading as well. They might spend their time journaling, composing poetry, or writing short stories. These students not only enjoy the process; they embrace it with every part of their being and enjoy engaging in assigned prompt writing ideas!

For most students, however, writing is synonymous with drudgery. They hear that they are going to have to write something, and they automatically shut down. Because of this unfortunate mindset usually brought about by the feeling of overwhelm, we need to get our students to see the value of high school writing activities that include easy-to-teach Prompt Writing Ideas.

There are so many options beyond the traditional five-paragraph essay! Keep reading for 50 Prompt Writing Ideas for High School Students !

Need help with Test Prep? Check out this  FREE Pack of 3 Test Prep Activities to help students achieve success on standardized tests

Table of Contents

50 Prompt Writing Ideas for High School Students

10 Narrative Prompt Writing Ideas

Before starting my business, I didn’t really see the value of writing stories. I mean, I enjoy a good story. I love reading short stories by Edgar Allan Poe , some of William Shakespeare’s plays , and other random historical fiction. Beyond personal entertainment or academia, I could not really see why teaching narrative writing was so important.

Boy, was I wrong!

Narrative writing is so valuable. Think about it. When we buy something, we really want to hear the story behind it.

We listen to how something was created, how a person struggled with a problem, and how a product provided a solution!  We connect with each other through stories!

Here are some relatively simple ways to incorporate narrative writing in your high school classroom with 10 Prompt Writing Ideas:

•   Write a Journal Entry- Students can respond to someone from a story as if they know the character personally.
•   Create an Advertisement- Students can include a story from a “buyer” as an ad technique.
•  Informational/Argument Essays- Students can use a short narrative as support.
•   Post on Social Media- Students can create a post that tells a story about something…anything!
•   Develop a Business Plan- Students can create a business plan and use narratives to relay the potential of a future business.
•   Write a Poem/Song- Students can write a poem or song that actually tells a story.
•   Create a Website- Students can create an About Me page for a fictitious online store that includes a story.
•   Participate in a Job Interview- Students can conduct interviews with each other and include stories that demonstrate certain skills or knowledge.
•   Give a Speech- Students can do research on an idea they are passionate about and include stories to support their ideas.
•   Record a Video- Students can write and record stories about their lives and “post” them on various platforms.

10 Satirical Prompt Writing Ideas

When it comes to bridging the gap between reading satire and writing satire , students need guidance. I would start by reading both  “Sending Grandma to the Ovens” and “A Modest Proposal.”  These two texts are similar in structure, purpose, and topic. Your students can model their own essays after these texts. They can even propose something!

Here are some HOW TO satirical prompt writing ideas :

• How to be a wonderful boyfriend or girlfriend
• How to propose to someone
• How to be a good student
• How to be a productive employee
• How to grow a business
• How to be an amazing parent
• How to be an effective writer
• How to prepare for exams
• How to get a job
• How to create friendships

10 Expository Prompt Writing Ideas

Essentially, an exposition seeks to explain something. And things in our world ALWAYS need explaining!

We crave information, and one of my major goals as a teacher is to encourage students to seek out information instead of what just pops up on social media feeds. We have so much knowledge, it can be overwhelming, so giving students a focus would be super helpful.

When writing an exposition, students have several options:

They can write about what they already know, write about what they don’t know by doing research, or write about a combination of the two.

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Here are some expository prompt writing ideas that might require a bit of research:

• Interesting hobbies I never knew about
• Skills I will need for life
• Getting a job interview
• Jobs that we take for granted
• Things to do when we don’t have electricity
• What I never knew about my family
• Popular foods in…(a culture/country)
• Why certain songs are popular
• Uses for a cell phone
• History of chocolate

10 Argument Prompt Writing Ideas

One of the toughest types of writing involving prompt writing ideas for students is the argument essay. Now, I am talking about the “you need to do research to make your case” kind of argument paper.

Let’s be real. Instead of doing the research ourselves, we rely on one or two news outlets to tell us information, or maybe, God forbid, we scroll through social media to get our information.

And I don’t know about you. I usually just get an interpretation or opinion on the facts. I don’t get the actual stories, statistics, and facts. I get, at most, a watered-down version of what I should actually know.

This reality is why we MUST teach our students how to support their ideas with cited evidence. We don’t need to teach students merely to argue. They do this beautifully with their friends on a daily basis. They need to know how to locate credible evidence, and I am not just talking .gov, .org, or .edu! This requirement of credibility applies to pretty much any prompt writing ideas!

Here are some argument prompt writing ideas that will REQUIRE research:

• Should student loans be forgiven?
• Should everyone go to college?
• Should social media companies be allowed to censor content?
• Should students have to take higher-level math?
• Should high school or college students be required to take a financial literacy course?
• Should students take a gap year before going to college?
• Should there be a minimum wage?
• Should students earn grades in their classes (A, B, C, D, F)?
• Should classes be organized by age or ability in a specific subject area?
• Should volunteer hours be required for graduation?

Notice: You don’t have to ask students to write a ten-page argument paper in order to feel like your students are learning what they need to know to be successful. You could start with a page, a paragraph, a discussion, or even a 1-minute presentation. Not everything has to be formal in the introductory stage. Sometimes, we want to get our students thinking about the topic and excited before they begin!

10 Rhetorical Analysis Prompts

I am a big fan of requiring students to practice  writing a rhetorical analysis essay . At first, it can be daunting. Even the word “rhetoric” can be difficult to explain at times.

Most of the Prompt Writing Ideas below can be used or revised to fit any piece of rhetoric:

• How does the speaker use logos in achieving the purpose of the speech?
• What techniques are used by the author to relay the message that_____?
• How does the writer include emotional language in order to appeal to the audience?
• Why is repetition used throughout the passage?
• What forms of evidence support the rhetor’s argument?
• How are the rhetorical appeals used in relation to the audience’s perspective?
• Why might the tone of the speaker change throughout the text?
• What kinds of strategies are used in online ads versus physical ads?
• How might you use different techniques when talking with your parents/guardians versus your friends?
• What types of diction and/or syntax might a creator use when discussing a topic in college?

If you go step by step through the analysis writing process, your students can master this skill. It might take more time than you think, but most students will achieve some level of success. Plus, they can apply these skills to any essay they will have to write in the future! You can teach How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Step By Step !

By modeling what you want, you will more likely get what you want from your students. This process also applies to writing a rhetorical analysis essay. Going through every step above is key to success.

Here are some reading and writing packs that may make the rhetorical analysis essay process that much easier:

• Sinners in the Hands of An Angry God Rhetorical Analysis Pack
• A Modest Proposal Rhetorical Analysis Pack
• The Declaration of Independence: Rhetorical Analysis Writing Pack
• Gettysburg Address Activities: Rhetorical Analysis Short Response
• Declaration of Sentiments Rhetorical Devices Analysis Activity Stanton
• Sojourner Truth Speech Aint I a Woman: Summary, Rhetorical Analysis
• Patrick Henry’s Give Me Liberty Give Me Death Speech Rhetorical Analysis Pack
• Florence Kelley Speech About Child Labor Rhetorical Analysis Pack
• Sending Grandma to the Ovens Rhetorical Analysis Pack

Need more Prompt Writing Ideas for your middle or high school classroom ? Check out my store  Kristin Menke-Integrated ELA Test Prep !

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The Best Personal Narrative Ideas For High School Students

Writing a  narrative essay  is like telling a little story from your life. Close people become the characters of your essay, and you become both a writer and the main hero. If you have received a personal narrative essay as your high school assignment, don’t worry if you have no idea what to write about — this article has got some great personal narrative ideas for high school.

What Is a Personal Narrative Essay and How to Write It

Essays of this type require a vivid plot filled with sincere emotions and memories.

Here are a few tips on how to write a personal narrative essay:

• The most important step is to find a  narrative essay topic  that will be interesting for both you and your potential reader. Make a short research to see what suits you — it has to be something personal and important to you.
• Use a descriptive language in your essay. It means that your story has to be written with the help of various expressions and words that you don’t often use. Read examples of an author you like if you are not sure how to do that.
• Make a strong point. The purpose of your narrative essay is not only to share your thoughts but to teach others something new. Your story should teach others something you’ve learned from your own experience. Try to make the lesson of your narrative both fun and useful.
• Make sure to work on the plot of your narrative essay.  Use an outline . It has to reach the climax, the highest point of emotional intensity, and give the story a great turn. Add a little twist to surprise your readers.

Top High School Personal Narrative Essay Topics

Here are  some great topics  for the personal narrative essay for high school students. Choose the one that you like the most and get your straight A in class!

• What was the most unpleasant experience of your life?
• Describe an experience when someone has told you a secret information about them. How did it make you feel?
• Describe the worst and the best day in details.
• How did the first day of high school go for you? Include a detailed description of your feelings.
• How did you meet your best high school friends? Where did it happen?
• What is the best person that you have met? How did he or she influence you?
• Which music inspires you? How often do you listen to it?
• What teacher inspired you? How do you like his or her classes?
• Tell about a time when you took part in any school event.
• Describe a situation when you and your parents misunderstood each other or didn’t agree with your opinion. How did you solve this situation?

Other Personal Narrative Essay Topics

Narrative essay topics from that list will be both  great for high school  students and those who are already in colleges or university. Even if you are not a student, you can use these  narrative topics  to practice your writing skills and put your memories and emotions on a paper.

• Describe the hardest decision of your life that you had to make.
• Tell about words or phrases that annoy you when someone uses them.
• Which talent do you have that you are proud of?
• Describe problems that you face every day. How do you cope with them?
• What movies have inspired you? When did you watch them?
• Describe the trip when you traveled to another city or country. What did you do?
• What animal would like to be?
• How did you overcome your biggest fear?
• What is your biggest loss in life?
• Which failures did you experience in your life and what did they teach you?

These were the most popular topics that are great for a personal narrative essay.  Start your writing  as soon as possible. If these topics are not what you were looking for, try to look for some more essay topics online — and you will find the one that is perfect for you.