Creative Writing Journal Project Introduction and Prompts

The Project Throughout this semester, you will keep a journal to record your thoughts, ideas, and experiences. You will have class time to complete your entries. Some may be specific or directed and some may be free writing. You will be expected to periodically check in your journal for completion and you will turn it in with your portfolio at the end of the semester. This is journal is YOURS. It is a place for your personal writing, so make it your own! I have some blank journals you can use, or you can make one or buy one.

First Entry Directions Today we will complete three prompts for your first journal entry. I will give you about ten minutes of writing time for each prompt.

Prompt #1: Brain Drain First, explore the technique called a “brain drain”. This means you write for an uninterrupted amount of time and get everything in your brain out on paper. Don’t worry about grammar, spelling, conventions or anything else- JUST WRITE as much as you can about whatever comes into your mind. You can do paragraphs, bullets, lists, or any combination. Don’t stop writing until I call time.

Prompt #2: Earliest Memories How far back can you recall? What seems to be your very first memory? Consider drawing (or picturing in your mind) a map of your old bedroom, house, street, play place, classroom, etc. to help "jog your memory." Think of people who were significant in your past - what do you recall about them? What memories does thinking about them bring back? Try to recall & jot down memories from PRE-middle school. Try to not stop writing/drawing until I call time.

Prompt #3: Random Facts What are some random facts about yourself? What are the little things that make you who you are? Perhaps write a list for this prompt! Consider jotting down your likes & dislikes as a starting point. Do you have any unique talents, odd tendencies, favorites, special dreams for the future, pet peeves, interesting beliefs...? Let your mind wander...write down anything that pops into your mind without judging it. Write as much as you can about yourself for the ten minutes of writing time.