Writing Prompts for 7th Grade
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By seventh grade, students should be refining the core writing skills of brainstorming , researching, outlining, drafting, and revising. In order to hone these skills, seventh-grade students need regular practice writing a variety of essay styles, including narrative, persuasive, expository , and creative essays. The following essay prompts offer age-appropriate starting points to help seventh graders flex their writing muscles.
Narrative Essay Writing Prompts
Narrative essays share a personal experience to tell a story, usually to make a point rather than merely to entertain. These narrative essay prompts encourage students to describe and reflect on a story that's meaningful to them.
- Embarrassing Pasts - As people get older, they are sometimes embarrassed by things they used to like, such as toys, television shows, or nicknames. Describe something that you used to enjoy that you now find embarrassing. Why is it embarrassing now?
- Bonds of Hardship - Sometimes difficulties draw families closer. Describe something that your family endured together that strengthened your relationships.
- There’s No Place Like Home - What makes your hometown special? Explain this special quality.
- New Kid in Town - Being new to a town or school can be challenging because you don’t know anyone, or exciting because no one knows you and your past. Describe a time when you were the new kid.
- Finders Keepers - Write about a time when you lost (or found) something of value. How did that experience affect your opinion of the saying, “Finders keepers; losers weepers?"
- Follow the Leader - Describe a time when you were in a leadership role. How did it make you feel? What did you learn from the experience?
- April Fools - Write about the best prank you’ve ever played on someone (or had played on you). What made it so clever or funny?
- Bon Appetit - Special meals can be powerful memory-makers. Write about a specific meal that stands out in your memory. What made it so unforgettable?
- Bon Voyage - Family trips and vacations also create lasting memories. Write an essay detailing your favorite family vacation memory.
- Batter Up - Write about a valuable lesson that you learned while playing your favorite sport.
- Best Friends Forever - Describe your friendship with your BFF and what makes it so important to you.
- The Real Me - What is one thing you wish your parents, teachers, or coaches really understood or knew about you?
- TV - Explain what makes your favorite television show so enjoyable or relatable to you.
Persuasive Essay Writing Prompts
Persuasive essays use facts and reasoning to convince the reader to embrace the writer’s opinion or take a course of action. These essay prompts empower seventh graders to write persuasively about an issue they genuinely care about.
- Outdated Laws - What is one law or family or school rule that you think needs to be changed? Convince lawmakers, your parents, or school leaders to make the change.
- Bad Ads - Advertising can have a powerful impact on consumers. What is a product that you’ve seen advertised that you don’t think should be? Explain why the media should quit showing these ads.
- Puppy Love - You want a pet, but your parents don’t think you need one. What would you say to change their minds?
- Lights, Camera - What is your favorite book of all time? Write an essay convincing a producer to make a movie about it.
- Snooze Button - Studies have shown that tweens and teens need more sleep. Write a proposal for a later school start time.
- Body Shop - Magazines can negatively impact their readers’ body image by using edited images of models. Convince a teen magazine publisher that they should not use heavily-edited model images in their publication.
- It Can’t Be Over - The network is canceling your favorite television show. Write a paper convincing the station that they’re making a mistake.
- Curfews - Some malls have policies forbidding kids under 18 to be at the mall without adult supervision during certain times. Do you think this is fair or unfair? Defend your position.
- Team Spirit - Should homeschooled students be allowed to play sports on public or private school teams? Why or why not?
- Smartphones - All of your friends have the latest smartphone, but you only have a “dumb phone.” Should your parents upgrade your phone, or are smartphones for middle school kids a bad idea?
- Bullies - Some dogs, such as pit bulls or Dobermans, are labeled “bully breeds.” Is this label deserved or undeserved?
- Money Can’t Buy You Love - People say that money can’t buy happiness, but some studies have shown that people with higher incomes may be happier . Do you think this is true? Why or why not?
- Ratings - There are age restrictions on movies and video games, ratings on television shows, and warning labels on music. Computers and smartphones offer parental controls. Do adults have too much control over what kids watch and listen to or do these restrictions serve a valuable purpose?
Expository Essay Writing Prompts
Expository essays describe a process or provide factual information. These prompts can serve as jumping-off points for the explanatory process.
- School’s in Session - Would you rather attend public school, private school, or be homeschooled. Explain the benefits of your choice.
- Admiration - Who do you admire from your life or history? Write an essay describing how their character or contributions to their community have earned your respect.
- Global Community - If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? Write about your dream hometown and why you want to live there.
- Peer Problems - Peer pressure and bullying can make life as a middle school student difficult. Describe a time you were pressured or bullied and how it affected you.
- Order Up - A friend wants to learn how to make your favorite food. Detail the process, step-by-step, so your friend can recreate the dish.
- Addictions - Many people are impacted by drug or alcohol addictions. Share facts about how the use of these substances negatively affects families or communities.
- Serve Others - Community service is a valuable experience. Describe a time you volunteered. What did you do and how did it make you feel?
- City or Country Mouse - Do you live in a big city or a small town? Explain why you do or don’t like living there.
- Aspirations - What do you want to be when you’re an adult? Explain why you’d choose that career or what you’ll do to prepare for it.
- Point in Time - Sometimes people bury time capsules so future generations can learn about the past. What would you include to give an accurate snapshot of life in the current time?
- Hobbyist - You’re friend wants to take up your favorite hobby. Explain it to him.
- SOS - A natural disaster has destroyed homes and businesses in a nearby city. Describe what you can do to help.
- Wonder Twin Power - Some superheroes can fly or become invisible. If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?
Creative Essay Writing Prompts
Creative essays are fictional stories. They use plot, character, and dialog to engage and entertain the reader. These prompts will get the creative juices flowing.
- Fan Fic - Write a story about your favorite characters from a book, film, or television show.
- Cats vs. Dogs - You have two pets of different species. Write a story from their point of view about a day at home alone.
- Time Travel - You find a time machine in your backyard. What happens when you step inside?
- Dream State - Think about a time when you woke in the middle of a vivid dream. What would have happened if the dream hadn’t been interrupted?
- New Door - You’ve just discovered a door that you’ve never seen before. What happens when you walk through it?
- Secret Keeper - You find out your best friend has kept a secret from you. What is the secret and why didn’t your friend tell you?
- Fridge Fun - Write a story from the perspective of an item in your refrigerator.
- Desert Island - You’ve just discovered an uncharted island. What happens next?
- Fly on the Wall - You see two people talking excitedly, but you can’t hear what they’re saying. Write a story about what they might be saying.
- Special Delivery - You receive a battered package in the mail. Write a story about its journey from the sender to you.
- A Mile in My Shoes - You find a pair of shoes in the thrift store and put them on. Suddenly you find yourself transported into someone else’s life. Describe what happens.
- Mission to Mars - Imagine that you’re a pioneer to start a colony on Mars. Write about a typical day on your new planet.
- Snow Days - You find yourself snowed in for a week with your family. There is no electricity or phone service. What do you do for fun?
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Engaging 7th Grade Writing Prompts For Creative Essays
In 7th grade, students develop their ability to write complex, coherent, and well-organized essays on a variety of topics. For you to successfully guide them through this process, you’ll undoubtedly need a variety of engaging and motivating 7th-grade writing prompts!
Narrative Essay Writing Prompts
Narrative essays usually tell a story, either personal or fictional. Below are some narrative essay writing prompts that you can use in your classroom:
3. Describe a time when you were in a leadership position. What did you learn from the experience?
5. Explain how you like or relate to your favorite television series.
7. Tell us about your close relationship with your BFF and its importance to you.
8. Write about a time when you misplaced (or recovered) something of great importance. How did the event influence your view on “Finders keepers; weepers losers?”
9. What do you wish your parents, teachers, or coaches knew about you?
10. Being new to a community or school may be difficult since you don’t know anyone, or it might be thrilling because no one knows who you are and your old life. Describe a time when you were the new kid in school.
11. Trips and vacations offer you and your family a lifetime of memories. Describe your favorite family vacation experience in an essay.
Compare and Contrast Writing Prompts
In a compare and contrast essay, your students will need to identify the similarities and differences between two or more subjects. Below are some compare and contrast essay writing prompts:
14. They claim, “The pen is mightier than the sword.” In what ways is the pen mightier than the sword?
16. What does the phrase “comparing apples to oranges” imply? Are there no similarities between these two fruits?
17. Pick your two favorite role models. What do they have in common, and how do they differ?
20. What are some differences and similarities between a drawing and a photograph?
21. What are the similarities and the differences between you and your best friend?
23. What family characteristics do you have in common with your siblings or relatives?
26. Think of your favorite sports team. How do they compare to their biggest rivals?
Expository Essay Writing Prompts
28. Community service is an excellent experience. Tell us about a time you volunteered at a summer job. What did you do, and how did it make you feel?
32. Time capsules are used to preserve history throughout the ages by burying them. What would you put in a time capsule to give a current impression of life?
33. A neighboring city has been hit by a natural catastrophe, which has resulted in the loss of homes and businesses. Describe how you can help.
35. A friend wants to know how to prepare your favorite meal. Give your friend a step-by-step description so they can repeat the process.
36. Do you live in a major metropolis or a rural area? Why do you love it or hate it there?
38. When you’re an adult, what do you want to be? Explain why you’d choose that profession or what you’ll do to get ready for it.
Creative Essay Writing Prompts
40. You own two pets from different species. Write a narrative from the perspective of your two pets about a day spent at home alone.
43. You get snowed in for a week with your family. There’s no electricity or phone service, so what do you do for fun?
45. You put on a pair of shoes you purchased at a thrift store. You’re whisked away into someone else’s life. Describe what happens next.
46. Consider a scenario in which you were awakened during the middle of a spectacular dream. What would’ve happened if the dream hadn’t been interrupted?
48. You get a crumpled package in the mail. Describe the route by which it passed from the sender to you.
49. You discover that your closest friend has been hiding something from you. What is this secret, and why didn’t your pal tell you about it?
51. Imagine that you’re a pioneer who has established a colony on Mars. Describe a typical day in your new home.
52. You’re listening intently to two people chatting animatedly, but you can’t hear what they’re saying. Make a guess about what they’re talking about.
Descriptive Writing Prompts
Descriptive prompts inspire your students to describe something using vivid language. These prompts can help your seventh-graders get started:
55. Describe your bedroom in detail. Describe as many features as possible.
58. A fire has broken out in your neighborhood. What do you see and smell as you watch the blaze (use your five senses)?
61. Write about a time when you were extremely embarrassed.
62. What does your favorite food taste like? Write a descriptive paragraph about its flavor, texture, and smell.
65. You find a mysterious box on your doorstep. What’s inside?
66. You’re at a museum. Describe the paintings, sculptures, and other artwork that you see.
67. You’re chosen to be a contestant on a game show. What do you have to do to win?
Jump In : Essay writing opens up opportunities for your 7th-grade students to write down their thoughts. Guide them as well to appreciate poem reading (and writing) by providing them with my list of 20 Amazing 7th-Grade Poems Your Students Will Love !
Watch Your Students’ Writing Come Alive!
Now that you have a huge list of 7th-grade writing prompts at your disposal, you can use them in any way you see fit.
Or, have students choose their favorite prompt and write a longer piece that incorporates all of the elements of a good story.
No matter how you use these prompts, your students are sure to have a blast!
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Inspiration & Information for Self-Improvement
Writing Prompts & Topics for 7th Grade
As 7th graders navigate the transition to adolescence, it’s crucial for educators to provide them with tools to express themselves and stay engaged in their learning. One effective method is through the use of writing prompts . By offering prompts and topics that are relevant and thought-provoking, teachers can unlock the potential for creativity in their students, while also improving their writing skills.
Writing prompts provide 7th graders with a dedicated space to explore their thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences. It allows them to express themselves freely, without fear of judgment or criticism. Moreover, writing prompts help students strengthen their ability to communicate their ideas effectively, while also encouraging self-reflection and critical thinking.
With a collection of 60 writing prompts and essay topics tailored for 7th grade students, teachers have a valuable resource to inspire and challenge their students. These prompts cover a range of subjects, from personal growth and relationships to ethical dilemmas and aspirations. By exploring these prompts, 7th graders can enhance their writing abilities and develop their unique voice.
Key Takeaways:
- Writing prompts are a powerful tool to nurture self-expression and engage 7th grade students in their writing journey.
- By offering thought-provoking prompts and topics , teachers can enhance students’ critical thinking and communication skills.
- Writing prompts provide a safe and judgment-free space for 7th graders to explore their thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences.
- Utilizing a diverse range of prompts and essay ideas, teachers can inspire creativity and help students find their unique voice.
- Encouraging self-reflection through prompts strengthens students’ understanding of themselves and their actions.
Table of Contents
The Power of Writing for 7th Graders
Writing is a formidable tool for 7th graders to unleash their creativity, develop critical thinking skills, and express themselves. Through writing, students can embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without any interruptions or judgment.
Journaling, in particular, provides a safe and private space for 7th graders to reflect on their daily lives and gain a deeper understanding of themselves. It allows them to delve into their innermost thoughts, helping them make sense of their actions, decisions, and relationships.
“Writing is a window to the soul. It helps me understand who I am and what I believe.” – Ava, 7th grade student
By engaging in regular writing exercises, students not only improve their writing skills but also enhance their ability to communicate effectively. Writing prompts provide a structured framework for students to engage with a variety of topics, encouraging them to think critically and creatively. This process not only hones their writing abilities but also fosters self-expression and self-awareness.
Benefits of Writing for 7th Graders
There are numerous benefits of writing for 7th graders:
- Enhanced Self-Expression: Writing allows students to express their thoughts, feelings, and opinions freely, helping them find their unique voice and identity.
- Improved Communication Skills: Through writing, students learn to articulate their ideas clearly and effectively, fostering strong communication skills that extend beyond the written word.
- Critical Thinking Development: Writing prompts encourage students to think critically, analyze situations, consider multiple perspectives, and develop logical arguments.
- Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Expressing themselves through writing enables students to empathize with others and explore different emotional experiences, ultimately fostering emotional intelligence.
- Positive Self-Reflection: Journaling prompts thoughtful self-reflection, helping students gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their actions, and their personal growth.
Overall, writing provides 7th graders with a platform for self-discovery, personal growth, and creative expression. Whether it’s through journaling or engaging with writing prompts, students can harness the power of words to shape their thoughts and make their voices heard.
30 Writing Prompts for 7th Grade
Looking for creative writing ideas to ignite your 7th grade students’ imaginations? Here is a curated list of 30 writing prompts designed specifically for 7th graders. These prompts cover a range of engaging topics, allowing students to explore their personal experiences, ponder ethical dilemmas, examine relationships, and aspire to their dreams.
- If you could travel back in time, which historical event would you visit and why?
- Write a story about a memorable adventure with your best friend.
“Life itself is the most wonderful fairy tale.” – Hans Christian Andersen
- Imagine you found a magical object. Describe its powers and the adventures it leads you on.
“The story I am about to tell you is one of the greatest ever written.” – C.S. Lewis
- Write a letter to your future self, outlining your goals and aspirations for the next five years.
- Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision. How did you reach your conclusion?
- Write a poem about your favorite place in nature.
Exploring Ethical Dilemmas
- Would you break the rules to help a friend in need? Why or why not?
- If you could have any superpower, how would you use it to make the world a better place?
- Imagine you witnessed a friend cheating on a test. What would you do?
Unleashing Creativity
- Write a short story about an ordinary object that comes to life.
- Design your ideal world. How would it look, feel, and function?
- If you could invent a new holiday, what would it be and how would people celebrate?
Encourage your students to choose a prompt that resonates with them or challenges their creative thinking. These writing prompts foster self-reflection and critical analysis, helping students develop their writing abilities and express their unique voices. Remember, the power of writing lies in its ability to inspire, evoke emotions, and captivate readers. So, let these prompts be a springboard for your students’ literary adventures.
Additional Prompts and Essay Writing Ideas
If the previous list of prompts wasn’t enough, here are 30 more ideas to inspire 7th grade writers. These prompts cover a wide range of topics, including personal growth, social issues, and imaginative storytelling. Students can choose a prompt that sparks their interest or challenges their creativity . These additional prompts provide ample opportunities for students to practice their essay writing skills and further explore their ability to communicate their thoughts and ideas effectively .
| Additional Writing Prompts and Essay Writing Ideas | |
|---|---|
| Topic | Prompt |
| Personal Growth | Write about a time when you faced a difficult challenge and how you grew from it. |
| Social Issues | Discuss the impact of climate change on the environment and what can be done to address it. |
| Imaginative Storytelling | Create a short story set in a world where everyone has a superpower. |
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The Guide to 7th Grade: Reading and Writing
Review reading and writing curricula for 7th grade, including what to expect and resources to support learning..
Seventh graders are able to focus more on growing the skills they began to develop in the 6th grade without the added stress to adjusting to the new middle school environment. By 7th grade, it is expected that students have acclimated to life as a middle school student and are therefore expected to work more independently and organize their time and schedules with less (but still some) guidance.
In general, in 7th grade, students build on the skills they learned in 6th grade by writing and reading more complex and longer texts and essays. This work will prepare them for 8th grade where they will cement and further their skills, ultimately setting them up for success in high school.
Read on for what to expect this year, and shop all seventh grade resources at The Scholastic Store .
7th Grade Reading
In 7th grade, students deepen their ability to analyze the texts they read and provide evidence from the text to do so. Specifically, 7th graders learn to examine texts more closely and use details from the text in order to develop ideas, analyze, and make inferences.
In addition, they analyze the relationships between elements within one text and across multiple texts while supporting this analysis by citing evidence from the text.
In order to build reading skills, your 7th grader:
- Analyzes texts using the text as evidence to support the analysis.
- Makes inferences about texts and uses evidence from the text to support the inferences.
- Understands the message or ideas in a text and uses evidence to support these claims.
- Understands, tracks the progress of, and summarizes the main idea of a text, using evidence from the text.
- Analyzes and explains the relationship between different elements such as character and setting.
- Analyzes the impact of specific language and word choice used in a text.
- Understands how the different structures used in a text, such as poetry or drama, affect the text.
- Compares and contrasts the different perspectives and points of views in a text.
- Determines the author’s point of view in a text using evidence from the text.
- Compares different versions such as a stage version, film, or audio version of a text, paying specific attention to the way in which elements such as lighting, scenery, or audio sounds affect the message of the text.
- Compares a historical account of an event, person, or place with a historical fiction text about the same period.
- Read a variety of texts, including stories, poetry, drama, non-fiction, or informative texts.
- Compares multiple texts written by different authors about the same topic and determines how their different perspectives are presented through their presentation of facts and the inferences they make.
7th Grade Writing
Similar to the work they do in reading, 7th graders deepen their writing skills by using analysis, paying close attention to detail and providing reasons, proofs, and examples for the ideas they express. 7th graders write a variety of genres, including informative pieces, opinion pieces, and narratives and they complete both short-term and long-term writing assignments.
There is also particular attention paid to research and teaching students to do their own independent research and research projects as described below, specifically through the use of digital resources.
In order to build writing skills, your 7th grader:
- Introductions
- Acknowledgements of opposing claims
- Logical and orderly presentations of reasons and evidence
- The use of appropriate transitions, words, and phrases to connect claims
- A concluding sentence or paragraph which supports the argument made
- A formal tone and style
- Use supporting claims and evidence that are based on credible texts and resources
- Include an introduction that has an explanation of what follows
- Develop topics through the use of facts, detailed quotations, and examples and subject specific terms and definitions
- Include transitions that connect concepts and paragraphs
- Include a conclusion that supports the presented idea(s)
- Maintain a formal “essay type” style
- Integrate other forms of media and formats, such as graphs, charts, headings, and audio or video when appropriate
- A narrator, characters, and a point of view
- Descriptive detail and sensory language to describe characters, settings, and experiences
- Dialogue details and descriptions of characters, setting, and experiences
- A clear structure with a logical order and flow, as shown through the use of transition words
- A conclusion that is connected to and builds on the narrative
- Plans, revises, and edits writing, specifically with guidance from teachers and peers, focusing specifically on trying new approaches and making sure the writing has a purpose and appeals to its audience
- Uses technology and the Internet to produce and publish writing
- Works with others and cites sources
- Works on multiple, short research projects that answer a specific question and cite multiple sources, while gathering additional questions for later research
- Uses both print and digital resources to conduct research, focusing on using appropriate search terms and reliable sources
- Uses quotes and a standard format for citation
- Uses research to analyze and make inferences
Shop the best resources for seventh grade below! You can find all books and activities at The Scholastic Store .
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In This Section
7th grade writing samples, writing in seventh grade.
Winter Break Personal Narrative Prompt
Seventh Grade Narrative Writing Sample 1
Seventh Grade Narrative Writing Sample 2
Seventh Grade Narrative Writing Sample 3
Seventh Grade Narrative Writing Sample 4
Seventh Grade Summary Sample 1
Seventh Grade Summary Sample 2
Seventh Grade Summary Sample 3
Seventh Grade Summary Sample 4
Seventh Grade Argumentative Essay Sample 3
Seventh Grade Argumentative Essay Sample 4
7th grade writing
by: Hank Pellissier | Updated: June 16, 2024
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Seventh graders need to avoid dangling modifiers, hasty drafts, and plagiarism! They rewrite to tighten their writing. They critique each other’s essays to learn what’s vague or missing. Finally, they study phrases, clauses, and sentence structure.
Seeing both sides
Your young adult’s critical thinking skills will be put to use this year. In argument papers , students express their fact-based opinions. In a strong paper, they also acknowledge — and use facts to argue against — opposing viewpoints. Your seventh grader’s writing should demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the topic, use clear logic, and incorporate solid evidence from reputable sources .
Your child’s papers should be written in formal language, with clear introductions and concise conclusions that summarize their position. Sounds pretty adult, right? Never fear, assignments are often on tween-friendly social issues, such as Do middle schoolers spend too much time on Instagram ?
We formally inform you
Your seventh grader will also write informative and explanatory papers on science and social studies topics. They’ll be expected to employ a range of “strategy tools” such as:
- Adding definitions for complex words or ideas.
- Using academic vocabulary .
- Adding concrete details.
- Choosing quotations.
- Comparing and contrasting concepts.
- Citing cause-and-effect relationships.
- Classifying information.
- Formatting (e.g., headings, bullet points).
- Including graphics (e.g., charts, images) and multimedia.
The language your child uses in these papers should be formal and precise. They should use transition words (e.g. so, if, for, as, and but ) and phrases (e.g. in view of these facts, under these particular circumstances ) to connect ideas and help their writing flow. Finally, your child write have a succinct synopsis as a conclusion.
Believe it.. or not?
Some of the most fun — and challenging — writing of the year will be narrative story assignments that portray actual events (e.g. memoirs, personal history ) or imagined experiences (e.g. fiction, fantasy ). Your child should experiment with effective storytelling techniques. These may include character development, plot twists and pacing, precise descriptions, tone of the narrator’s voice, crisp dialogue, and adventurous action. In class, kids will learn and practice transition vocabulary to help guide readers from one scene or timeframe to another (e.g. Meanwhile, back at the space station; Centuries earlier, when Brontosaurus first roamed the swamps… ).
Tear it apart and start again
Don’t be dismayed if your seventh grader is asked to replan, re-outline, revise, re-edit, and/or rewrite many of their papers. This isn’t perfectionism or punishment — it helps students sharpen the precision, complexity, pacing, and variation of their literary technique. “By the time I am nearing the end of a story,” says Roald Dahl, author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory , “the first part will have been reread and altered and corrected at least 150 times. …Good writing is essentially rewriting.”
Collaborating online
Seventh graders interact and collaborate online to create and publish writing that links to online sources. Regular online communication with teachers — often in Google docs and other sharing tools — is increasingly prevalent, along with emailing or uploading completed assignments. The challenge for kids? Believable replacements for the classic excuse: “My dog ate my homework.”
Understanding and avoiding cheating
Seventh grade is the year of short research projects using sources like reference books, magazines, and data found online. Your young researcher will learn how to judge the accuracy and credibility of their sources . (For example, Does MAD Magazine have the same integrity as the Boston Globe ? No!) Kids learn to paraphrase information and use quotes to avoid plagiarizing. To plagiarize is defined as “ to copy another person’s ideas, words or work and pretend that they are your own,” and it is a form of cheating that has reached epidemic proportions. Citing their work correctly is the antidote for this error. Papers should follow formats for citations and end with a bibliography.
Grammar with a capital G
Kids learn about phrases , defined as two or more words that express an idea but are not a complete thought or sentence because phrases don’t have a subject and a verb. Kids also learn two types of clauses . Dependent clauses have a subject and a verb and form part of a sentence. Independent clauses have a subject and a verb and create short, complete sentences inside larger sentences.
Seventh graders learn to recognize and use four kinds of sentences . Simple sentences have a single independent clause, with one subject and one verb, e.g., Harold eats pie . Compound sentences have two or more independent clauses, connected with a conjunction, e.g., Harold eats pie because it’s delicious . Complex sentences contain one independent clause and one dependent clause. e.g., Harold eats pie whether it’s hot or cold . Compound complex sentences have at least two independent clauses and one dependent clause. e.g., Jerry eats pie because it’s delicious whether it’s hot or cold .
The common mistake of dangling modifiers happens when modifying words are disconnected from the word they’re meant to modify or the attachment is vague. For example: Alice painted the turtle on the table. Did Alice paint a picture of a turtle on the table surface? Or did she paint the shell of the turtle itself? We’re just not sure.
Seventh graders also start to learn how to use commas correctly. Commas separate adjectives that are equal in value in terms of how they modify the word they describe. If you can reverse the order of the adjectives, then they are equal and you need a comma. For example, Jordana found a red, vintage bag at the thrift store . Since you could also describe it as a vintage, red bag, you need a comma. But you don’t need a comma in this sentence: Mateo wore a yellow rain jacket . Why? Because the reverse order — a rain yellow jacket — makes no sense (unless we’re talking about new species of wasp).
Speak up for the back row
A new focus for writing instruction is that writing should involve a lot of… talking. That’s right. Oral presentations will take center stage for many of your seventh grader’s assignments. The idea is to present their research-backed opinions, arguments, or ideas to their classmates aloud, using formal language, clear pronunciation, and at a volume loud enough for everyone in the class to hear. Kids’ presentations should be well-organized, share main points, and include relevant details and examples. Many presentations will include visual and multimedia displays. Again, it sounds like a lot, but it’s meant as practice to set your child up for real-world, on-the-job success in the future.
Here’s a preview of the presentation skills required in high school.
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Reading Worksheets, Spelling, Grammar, Comprehension, Lesson Plans
7th Grade Writing
For seventh graders, this Common Core area helps students gain mastery of writing skills by working collaboratively and producing written texts, understanding syntax and vocabulary, and organizing their ideas. Among the complete standards for this grade, seventh graders will be asked to: use precise language for written work, including formal style, use appropriate technology to publish writing and to collaborate on written projects, demonstrate keyboarding skill, go through the process of writing, editing and revision for their written work, conduct short research projects to answer a question, quote or paraphrase the data and conclusions of supporting texts while avoiding plagiarism and using proper citation, use evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.
Abraham Lincoln Bio Poem
Your students will write a bio poem about Abraham Lincoln.
Back to School Diamante Poem
Teach your students a fun way to write diamante poems using our new back to school worksheet.
Bio Poem: My Mother
A fun Mother’s Day bio poem activity for your students!
Bio Poem: Pilgrim
A biography poem, also called a bio poem, is a short poem which describes a person or thing. This printable Thanksgiving Activity guides students through creating a bio poem about Pilgrims.
Bio Poem: Someone You Know
Students will write a bio poem about someone they know using the format set in this worksheet.
Christmas Tree Bio Poem
A biography poem, also called a bio poem, is a short poem which describes a person or thing. Sometimes writing a bio pem can be tricky! This printable Christmas Activity guides students through creating a bio poem about a Christmas tree.
Correct the Transition Words Mistakes – Worksheet
Have your students revise sentences and correct transition word mistakes with this educational writing activity.
Diamante Poem: Antonyms
Students write an antonym diamante poem in the space provided.
Diamante Poem: Synonyms
A diamante poem takes its name from the shape it makes: a diamond. Diamante poems were introduced in 1969 by Iris Tiedt. Students write a synonym diamante poem in the space provided.
Edgar Allan Poe; Journalist Trickster
Students read about one of Edgar Allan Poe’s hoaxes when he was a journalist. Each student then write’s their own hoax!
Edgar Allan Poe: Secrets in Poetry
Students read from Edgar Allan Poe’s “An Enigma” and decipher the name of the woman’s whose name is hidden within the text.
Father’s Day Bio Poem: My Father
Enhance your students’ writing skills with this fun Father’s Day Biography Poem activity.
Fourth of July Bio Poem: America
Encourage your students to learn about America with this Fourth of July Biography Poem activity.
George Washington Bio Poem
Your students will write a bio poem about George Washington.
George Washington’s List of Rules
When George Washington was a young boy, he made a list of rules for himself. Students choose one of the rules and write what it means.
Halloween Bio Poem Activity: Ghost
Create a bio poem about your own personal ghost with our fun Halloween printable activity!
Main Idea Organizer
Teach your students how to organize their writing with this helpful Main Idea Organizer. Students will be asked to complete the worksheet by writing their own main idea, three details, and a summary. This will help your students better understand how to organize their ideas for writing in the future, especially when writing an essay!
Newspaper Reporter: An Interview With President Lincoln
Your student is now an official reporter and their task is to interview President Abraham Lincoln! Students write three questions they would ask him and what his replies would be.
Transition Words: Complete the Sentence
Enhance your students’ writing skills with this “Complete the Sentence” transition words activity.
Using Transition Words
In this worksheet, your students will learn how to properly use transition words in a sentence.
Secondary Classrooms 15 CommonLit Texts Middle School Teachers Will Love
Amanda Riddle
New to CommonLit? A long-time user looking to refresh your lesson plans? Use these texts in your middle school classes!
CommonLit is a digital literacy program with over 2,600 lessons for grades 3–12. CommonLit’s library includes high-quality literary and nonfiction texts, digital accessibility tools for students, and data-tracking tools for teachers.
In this post, we are excited to share 15+ of our favorite texts for middle schoolers. To see all of our texts for middle school students visit our full library.
Literary Texts
" fish cheeks " by amy tan.
In this short story by Amy Tan, the narrator explores her Chinese-American identity through the lens of food and family tradition.
As students read, you could have them take notes on the way the author describes the food her mother and father prepare for their guests.
" Seventh Grade " by Gary Soto
Victor is starting his first day of seventh grade but he has more than classes, homework, and his schedule to worry about — the only thing he can focus on is impressing Teresa.
As students read, you might ask them to take notes on what Victor does to impress Teresa. Then, you could facilitate a discussion on how hard it is to make friends and impress others when you are growing up. Be sure to ask students to relate to the story with a time they might have felt pressure to lie to fit in.
" East 149th Street (Symphony For A Black Girl) " by Teri Ellen Cross Davis
In this poem, Teri Ellen Cross Davis draws on the personal experience of her mother braiding her hair as a child. Ask students to identify the author’s use of imagery to convey strong sentiments of love for her mother — and ultimately strong feelings of love for herself.
You could facilitate a conversation with your class about the value of small expressions of love and how they can help build relationships.
Informational Texts
" malala yousafzai: a normal yet powerful girl " by national public radio (npr) staff.
Malala is a Pakistani activist for female education and empowerment. After facing considerable adversity in northwest Pakistan from the Taliban, including an attack where she was critically injured, Malala still continues to advocate for access to education on the international stage.
As students read, ask them to take notes on who supported Malala to overcome adversity.
" In Thailand, 17 Pounds of Plastic Kills Whale, Highlighting Ocean Pollution " by Samantha Raphelson for National Public Radio (NPR)
In this informational text, Samantha Raphelson, an author for the National Public Radio (NPR), examines how plastic waste is affecting ocean life. Raphelson explains how plastic finds its way into the ocean and interviews folks about what to do to address this form of pollution.
" The War of the Wall " by Toni Cade Bambara (7th grade)
In this short story, the narrator and their friends are upset when a stranger comes to paint a mural on a wall in their beloved neighborhood. The kids in the story learn an important lesson about community and how first impressions or assumptions can be dangerous.
You could have your students think of a place in your community that is important to everyone — a park, market, or path along a creek. Now, imagine that a stranger comes to your special place and begins to change it completely. What would you do? Would you feel the same way the kids in the story did?
" Mother to Son " by Langston Hughes (7th Grade)
Langston Hughes (1902–1967) was an American poet, activist, novelist, and playwright. This poem is written from the point of view of a mother speaking to her son about life’s challenges.
You may ask students to think about the meaning of family and how it feels to receive advice or wisdom from an adult. How do you relate to your parents or guardians when they are trying to give you advice?
“ Herd Behavior ” by CommonLit Staff (7th grade)
Have you ever found yourself blindly following a crowd? Agreeing to something in a group you might not really want to do? In this informational text, the concept of “herd behavior” is explained and explored.
You can have students use the annotation tool to highlight examples of herd behavior in history. Then, you could facilitate a class discussion on the potential costs and benefits of herd behavior in society.
" Who is Katherine Johnson? " by NASA
In this biography, the NASA Science Team tells the story of Katherine Johnson (1918–2020), who was an African American physicist and mathematician who worked at NASA during the early years of the space program. The text describes Katherine Johnson’s early life and her time working on their space missions.
As students read, have them take notes on the challenges and prejudice Johnson faced throughout her career.
“ All Summer In a Day ” by Ray Bradbury (8th grade)
In this famous short story, Bradbury writes of a group of children on the rainy planet Venus as they prepare for a special event that happens only once every seven years. The children act cruelly to Margot, who is the only one to remember what life was like on Earth, with sunny days and infrequent rain.
As your class reads, you can ask students to discuss what drives the prejudice that the other children have towards Margot. Why do people sometimes feel inferior to others? Why does this drive people to cruelty?
“Lamb to the Slaughter” by Roald Dahl (8th grade)
The narrator in the story, Mary Mahoney, receives some surprising news from her husband as she is preparing dinner. He has betrayed her, but her reaction is more extreme than what you might expect…
As students read, you could ask them to take notes on how Mary’s feelings about her husband change throughout the story.
“Abuelito Who” by Sandra Cisneros
Sandra Cisneros is an American writer and key figure in Chicana literature. Her writing frequently draws on her experiences as the only daughter in a family of six brothers, and her family’s constant migration between Mexico and the United States. In this poem, the speaker describes their aging grandfather. As your students read, take notes on how the author uses repetition to emphasize how aging affects their grandfather.
“ How Jackie Robinson Changed Baseball ” by Jessica McBirney
Jackie Robinson (1919–1972) was a professional baseball player and the first African American to play in the Major Leagues. This informational text discusses Robinson’s life and accomplishments, and the impact his role in baseball had on the Civil Rights Movement. You can engage students by discussing the role of sports and popular culture in activism.
As your students read, ask them to take notes on the different ways that Jackie Robinson fought back against racial discrimination and segregation throughout this life.
" In My Mom’s Shoes " by Kat Chow
In this personal essay, Kat Chow reflects on losing her mother at a young age and inheriting a pair of her shoes years later. Drawing on memories from different times in her life, the Chow shows how grief evolves.
You could discuss with your class the many different ways people respond to grief. What are some ways to cope with grief? You could generate a list of resources with your class for people experiencing feelings of loss and offer ways to support friends through it.
" Hello, My Name is ____ " by Jason Kim
Jason Kim is an Asian American screenwriter and playwright. In this memoir, Kim reflects on his experiences moving from his home in South Korea to start a new life in America. This engaging personal essay helps students explore the perspective of someone who feels they need to change themselves and their identity to “fit in”.
Are you a teacher looking for more great content on CommonLit? Browse the CommonLit Library or come to one of our webinars!
If you are an administrator looking to leverage CommonLit in your school or district, our partnerships team can help. We offer benchmark assessments, professional learning, and more!
Chat with CommonLit
CommonLit’s team will reach out with more information on our school and district partnerships.
How to Improve Writing in Seventh Grade
Written by Dan
Last updated January 31, 2024
Improving writing skills is crucial to academic success, and seventh-grade students are no exception. Writing is a fundamental skill that students need to master, and it is essential to start early. However, many students struggle with writing, and it can be challenging to know where to begin.
Related : For more, check out our article on How To Make Writing Fun here.
To improve writing skills in seventh grade, students need to understand the basics of writing, practice regularly, and receive feedback. Reading is also essential to improving writing skills, as it helps students develop their vocabulary and grammar.
Additionally, technology can play a significant role in enhancing writing skills, providing students with various tools and resources to improve their writing.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Understanding the basics of writing is essential to improving writing skills.
- Reading can help students develop their vocabulary and grammar, which is crucial for writing.
- Regular practice, feedback, and the use of technology can significantly enhance writing skills.
Related : For more, check out our article on How To Improve Writing In Sixth Grade here.
Understanding the Basics of Writing
Writing is a fundamental skill that students must learn in their academic journey. In seventh grade, it is essential to understand the basics of writing to improve writing skills.
This section will cover the writing process, vocabulary, phrases, and styles.
The Writing Process
The writing process involves several steps that students must follow to produce a complete piece of writing. The following table summarizes the steps involved in the writing process:
| Steps in the Writing Process |
|---|
| Prewriting |
| Drafting |
| Revising |
| Editing |
| Publishing |
Prewriting involves brainstorming ideas, researching, and outlining. Drafting is the stage where the student writes the first draft.
Revising involves reviewing and refining the draft, while editing involves correcting errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation . Publishing is the final stage where the student shares the finished product.
Related : For more, check out our article on How To Improve Writing In Fifth Grade here.
Vocabulary and Phrases
Vocabulary and phrases are essential components of writing. Students must have a good command of vocabulary to express their ideas effectively. The following list provides some useful phrases that students can use in their writing:
- In addition to
- Furthermore
- On the other hand
- Nevertheless
- Consequently
- In conclusion
Writing Styles
Writing styles refer to the tone and voice that the writer uses in their writing. The following list provides some common writing styles:
- Descriptive
- Argumentative
Students must understand the different writing styles to choose the appropriate one for their writing task. For instance, if the task requires the student to tell a story, they should use the narrative style.
Understanding the basics of writing is crucial for seventh-grade students to improve their writing skills. They must follow the writing process, have a good command of vocabulary and phrases, and choose the appropriate writing style for their task.
Related : For more, check out our article on How To Teach Children To Add Suspense To Their Writing here.
Improving Writing Through Reading
Importance of Reading
Reading is an essential aspect of improving writing skills in seventh graders. Reading helps students to gain exposure to different writing styles, expands their vocabulary, and improves their comprehension skills .
A student who reads regularly can quickly identify the structure of a sentence, the use of grammar, and the correct use of punctuation marks.
Furthermore, reading helps students to develop their critical thinking skills, which is an essential component of writing. Students read and are exposed to different perspectives, ideas, and concepts.
This exposure helps them to develop their ideas and opinions, which they can use to create compelling and persuasive written content.
Types of Reading Materials
Seventh graders can use different types of reading materials to improve their writing skills. These materials include books, magazines, and online articles.
Books are an excellent source of reading material as they provide in-depth information on different topics. Students can choose books on different genres such as fiction, non-fiction, and biographies.
Fiction books help students to develop their imagination and creativity, while non-fiction books provide factual information on different topics.
Magazines are another great source of reading material for seventh graders. Magazines provide a wide range of information on different topics such as science, history, and current events.
They also provide a platform for students to read articles written by different authors, which helps them to identify different writing styles.
Reading is an essential aspect of improving writing skills in seventh graders. It helps students to develop their critical thinking skills, expand their vocabulary, and improve their comprehension skills.
Students can use different types of reading materials such as books and magazines to improve their writing skills.
Writing Practice and Exercises
Seventh-grade students can significantly improve their writing skills by practicing regularly. Writing practice and exercises can help students to develop their writing abilities, enhance their creativity, and improve their critical thinking skills.
Here are some effective writing practice and exercises that seventh graders can use to improve their writing skills.
Writing Prompts
Writing prompts are an excellent way to help seventh graders develop their writing skills. Writing prompts can be used to inspire students to write about different topics, such as personal experiences, current events, and fictional scenarios.
Writing prompts can help seventh graders to improve their vocabulary, grammar, and syntax.
Here are some examples of writing prompts for seventh graders:
- Write a short story about a character who discovers a mysterious object in their backyard.
- Write a persuasive essay about the importance of recycling.
- Write a descriptive paragraph about your favorite place in the world.
Worksheets and Assignments
Worksheets and assignments are another effective way to help seventh graders improve their writing skills. Worksheets and assignments can help students to practice their writing skills, learn new writing techniques, and improve their research skills.
Here are some examples of writing worksheets and assignments for seventh graders:
- Write a character analysis of a character from a book you have read.
- Write a compare and contrast essay about two different cultures.
- Write a research paper about a historical event.
Short Research Projects
Short research projects are an excellent way to help seventh graders improve their writing skills. Short research projects can help students to develop their research skills, learn how to organize their ideas, and improve their writing skills.
Here are some examples of short research projects for seventh graders:
- Research a famous person and write a biography about them.
- Research a current event and write a news article about it.
- Research a scientific experiment and write a lab report about it.
Writing practice and exercises are essential for seventh graders who want to improve their writing skills.
Writing prompts, worksheets and assignments, and short research projects are all effective ways to help students develop their writing abilities, enhance their creativity, and improve their critical thinking skills.
The Role of Technology in Enhancing Writing Skills
Technology has played a significant role in enhancing writing skills for seventh-grade students. The internet has opened up many resources and multimedia tools that students can use to improve their writing abilities.
In this section, we will explore two of the most critical ways in which technology can help students improve their writing.
Online Resources
The internet is a treasure trove of resources students can use to improve their writing. Numerous websites offer free writing prompts, grammar lessons, and writing tips.
These resources can help students develop their writing skills by providing them with the necessary tools and guidance.
One of the most significant advantages of online resources is that they are accessible to everyone. Students can access these resources from anywhere, at any time, as long as they have an internet connection.
This means that students can work on their writing skills at their own pace, without having to worry about being on campus or in the classroom.
Multimedia Tools
Multimedia tools are another way in which technology can help students improve their writing skills. These tools include software and apps that allow students to create multimedia presentations, videos, and other forms of digital media.
By using these tools, students can develop their writing skills more engagingly and interactively.
Multimedia tools can help students develop their writing skills by allowing them to experiment with different forms of media. For example, students can create videos incorporating text, images, and sound to convey their ideas.
This can help students develop their writing skills by encouraging them to think creatively and critically about how to communicate their ideas effectively.
In conclusion, technology has played a significant role in enhancing writing skills for seventh-grade students. Online resources and multimedia tools are just two of the many ways in which technology can help students develop their writing abilities.
By using these tools, students can improve their writing skills in a more engaging and interactive way, and at their own pace.
Feedback and Revision
Editing and Proofreading
Editing and proofreading are essential components of the writing process. Seventh-grade students should be taught to review their work for errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
They should also learn to identify and correct awkward phrasing or unclear sentences. A good strategy is to have students read their work aloud, as this can help them identify errors they might not have noticed otherwise.
Teachers can also provide feedback on student writing by using a rubric or checklist to evaluate the quality of the work.
This can help students understand what they need to improve and how to do it. Teachers can also provide specific feedback on areas that need improvement, such as grammar, sentence structure, or organization.
Teacher and Peer Reviews
In addition to self-editing, students can benefit from receiving feedback from their peers and teachers. Peer reviews can be done in small groups, where students read and evaluate each other’s work.
This can help students learn to give and receive constructive feedback, as well as improve their own writing by seeing examples of strong writing from their peers.
Teachers can also provide feedback on student writing by meeting with students individually or in small groups. This allows teachers to provide more detailed feedback and address specific concerns.
Teachers can also use technology tools to track student progress and provide feedback online.
In conclusion, feedback and revision are essential components of the writing process for seventh-grade students.
By teaching students to edit and proofread their own work, and by providing feedback from peers and teachers, students can improve their writing skills and become more confident writers.
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About The Author
I'm Dan Higgins, one of the faces behind The Teaching Couple. With 15 years in the education sector and a decade as a teacher, I've witnessed the highs and lows of school life. Over the years, my passion for supporting fellow teachers and making school more bearable has grown. The Teaching Couple is my platform to share strategies, tips, and insights from my journey. Together, we can shape a better school experience for all.
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Essay Writing: A complete guide for students and teachers
P LANNING, PARAGRAPHING AND POLISHING: FINE-TUNING THE PERFECT ESSAY
Essay writing is an essential skill for every student. Whether writing a particular academic essay (such as persuasive, narrative, descriptive, or expository) or a timed exam essay, the key to getting good at writing is to write. Creating opportunities for our students to engage in extended writing activities will go a long way to helping them improve their skills as scribes.
But, putting the hours in alone will not be enough to attain the highest levels in essay writing. Practice must be meaningful. Once students have a broad overview of how to structure the various types of essays, they are ready to narrow in on the minor details that will enable them to fine-tune their work as a lean vehicle of their thoughts and ideas.
In this article, we will drill down to some aspects that will assist students in taking their essay writing skills up a notch. Many ideas and activities can be integrated into broader lesson plans based on essay writing. Often, though, they will work effectively in isolation – just as athletes isolate physical movements to drill that are relevant to their sport. When these movements become second nature, they can be repeated naturally in the context of the game or in our case, the writing of the essay.
THE ULTIMATE NONFICTION WRITING TEACHING RESOURCE
- 270 pages of the most effective teaching strategies
- 50+ digital tools ready right out of the box
- 75 editable resources for student differentiation
- Loads of tricks and tips to add to your teaching tool bag
- All explanations are reinforced with concrete examples.
- Links to high-quality video tutorials
- Clear objectives easy to match to the demands of your curriculum
Planning an essay
The Boys Scouts’ motto is famously ‘Be Prepared’. It’s a solid motto that can be applied to most aspects of life; essay writing is no different. Given the purpose of an essay is generally to present a logical and reasoned argument, investing time in organising arguments, ideas, and structure would seem to be time well spent.
Given that essays can take a wide range of forms and that we all have our own individual approaches to writing, it stands to reason that there will be no single best approach to the planning stage of essay writing. That said, there are several helpful hints and techniques we can share with our students to help them wrestle their ideas into a writable form. Let’s take a look at a few of the best of these:
BREAK THE QUESTION DOWN: UNDERSTAND YOUR ESSAY TOPIC.
Whether students are tackling an assignment that you have set for them in class or responding to an essay prompt in an exam situation, they should get into the habit of analyzing the nature of the task. To do this, they should unravel the question’s meaning or prompt. Students can practice this in class by responding to various essay titles, questions, and prompts, thereby gaining valuable experience breaking these down.
Have students work in groups to underline and dissect the keywords and phrases and discuss what exactly is being asked of them in the task. Are they being asked to discuss, describe, persuade, or explain? Understanding the exact nature of the task is crucial before going any further in the planning process, never mind the writing process .
BRAINSTORM AND MIND MAP WHAT YOU KNOW:
Once students have understood what the essay task asks them, they should consider what they know about the topic and, often, how they feel about it. When teaching essay writing, we so often emphasize that it is about expressing our opinions on things, but for our younger students what they think about something isn’t always obvious, even to themselves.
Brainstorming and mind-mapping what they know about a topic offers them an opportunity to uncover not just what they already know about a topic, but also gives them a chance to reveal to themselves what they think about the topic. This will help guide them in structuring their research and, later, the essay they will write . When writing an essay in an exam context, this may be the only ‘research’ the student can undertake before the writing, so practicing this will be even more important.
RESEARCH YOUR ESSAY
The previous step above should reveal to students the general direction their research will take. With the ubiquitousness of the internet, gone are the days of students relying on a single well-thumbed encyclopaedia from the school library as their sole authoritative source in their essay. If anything, the real problem for our students today is narrowing down their sources to a manageable number. Students should use the information from the previous step to help here. At this stage, it is important that they:
● Ensure the research material is directly relevant to the essay task
● Record in detail the sources of the information that they will use in their essay
● Engage with the material personally by asking questions and challenging their own biases
● Identify the key points that will be made in their essay
● Group ideas, counterarguments, and opinions together
● Identify the overarching argument they will make in their own essay.
Once these stages have been completed the student is ready to organise their points into a logical order.
WRITING YOUR ESSAY
There are a number of ways for students to organize their points in preparation for writing. They can use graphic organizers , post-it notes, or any number of available writing apps. The important thing for them to consider here is that their points should follow a logical progression. This progression of their argument will be expressed in the form of body paragraphs that will inform the structure of their finished essay.
The number of paragraphs contained in an essay will depend on a number of factors such as word limits, time limits, the complexity of the question etc. Regardless of the essay’s length, students should ensure their essay follows the Rule of Three in that every essay they write contains an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
Generally speaking, essay paragraphs will focus on one main idea that is usually expressed in a topic sentence that is followed by a series of supporting sentences that bolster that main idea. The first and final sentences are of the most significance here with the first sentence of a paragraph making the point to the reader and the final sentence of the paragraph making the overall relevance to the essay’s argument crystal clear.
Though students will most likely be familiar with the broad generic structure of essays, it is worth investing time to ensure they have a clear conception of how each part of the essay works, that is, of the exact nature of the task it performs. Let’s review:
Common Essay Structure
Introduction: Provides the reader with context for the essay. It states the broad argument that the essay will make and informs the reader of the writer’s general perspective and approach to the question.
Body Paragraphs: These are the ‘meat’ of the essay and lay out the argument stated in the introduction point by point with supporting evidence.
Conclusion: Usually, the conclusion will restate the central argument while summarising the essay’s main supporting reasons before linking everything back to the original question.
ESSAY WRITING PARAGRAPH WRITING TIPS
● Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea
● Paragraphs should follow a logical sequence; students should group similar ideas together to avoid incoherence
● Paragraphs should be denoted consistently; students should choose either to indent or skip a line
● Transition words and phrases such as alternatively , consequently , in contrast should be used to give flow and provide a bridge between paragraphs.
HOW TO EDIT AN ESSAY
Students shouldn’t expect their essays to emerge from the writing process perfectly formed. Except in exam situations and the like, thorough editing is an essential aspect in the writing process.
Often, students struggle with this aspect of the process the most. After spending hours of effort on planning, research, and writing the first draft, students can be reluctant to go back over the same terrain they have so recently travelled. It is important at this point to give them some helpful guidelines to help them to know what to look out for. The following tips will provide just such help:
One Piece at a Time: There is a lot to look out for in the editing process and often students overlook aspects as they try to juggle too many balls during the process. One effective strategy to combat this is for students to perform a number of rounds of editing with each focusing on a different aspect. For example, the first round could focus on content, the second round on looking out for word repetition (use a thesaurus to help here), with the third attending to spelling and grammar.
Sum It Up: When reviewing the paragraphs they have written, a good starting point is for students to read each paragraph and attempt to sum up its main point in a single line. If this is not possible, their readers will most likely have difficulty following their train of thought too and the paragraph needs to be overhauled.
Let It Breathe: When possible, encourage students to allow some time for their essay to ‘breathe’ before returning to it for editing purposes. This may require some skilful time management on the part of the student, for example, a student rush-writing the night before the deadline does not lend itself to effective editing. Fresh eyes are one of the sharpest tools in the writer’s toolbox.
Read It Aloud: This time-tested editing method is a great way for students to identify mistakes and typos in their work. We tend to read things more slowly when reading aloud giving us the time to spot errors. Also, when we read silently our minds can often fill in the gaps or gloss over the mistakes that will become apparent when we read out loud.
Phone a Friend: Peer editing is another great way to identify errors that our brains may miss when reading our own work. Encourage students to partner up for a little ‘you scratch my back, I scratch yours’.
Use Tech Tools: We need to ensure our students have the mental tools to edit their own work and for this they will need a good grasp of English grammar and punctuation. However, there are also a wealth of tech tools such as spellcheck and grammar checks that can offer a great once-over option to catch anything students may have missed in earlier editing rounds.
Putting the Jewels on Display: While some struggle to edit, others struggle to let go. There comes a point when it is time for students to release their work to the reader. They must learn to relinquish control after the creation is complete. This will be much easier to achieve if the student feels that they have done everything in their control to ensure their essay is representative of the best of their abilities and if they have followed the advice here, they should be confident they have done so.
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Free Printable Essay Writing Worksheets for 7th Grade
Essay Writing just got better for Grade 7 Reading & Writing teachers! Discover our collection of free printable worksheets to enhance students' skills and spark their creativity. Dive into Quizizz's resources now!
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Essay Writing worksheets for Grade 7 are an essential resource for teachers looking to develop and enhance their students' reading and writing skills. These worksheets focus on various aspects of writing, including nonfiction writing, and are designed to help students in Grade 7 improve their overall language proficiency. By incorporating these worksheets into their lesson plans, teachers can provide a structured and engaging approach to teaching essay writing. The worksheets cover a range of topics, from brainstorming and outlining to drafting and revising, ensuring that students gain a comprehensive understanding of the writing process. Furthermore, these Grade 7 worksheets are designed to be adaptable to different learning styles and can be easily integrated into various classroom settings.
In addition to Essay Writing worksheets for Grade 7, teachers can also utilize Quizizz, an online platform that offers a variety of educational resources, including interactive quizzes and games. Quizizz allows teachers to create custom quizzes that align with their lesson plans, providing a fun and engaging way for students to practice their reading and writing skills. This platform also offers a range of other resources, such as flashcards and study guides, that can be used alongside the Grade 7 worksheets to further enhance students' learning experience. By incorporating Quizizz into their teaching strategies, educators can create a dynamic and interactive learning environment that not only supports the development of essential reading and writing skills but also encourages students to take an active role in their education.
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125 Words Every 7th Grader Should Know
Vocabulary you need to succeed.
By analyzing student data and commonly taught texts, Vocabulary.com has compiled this collection of essential vocabulary for students in 7th grade. Master high-frequency, high-utility words that you'll encounter across the curriculum.
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The post is now updated and includes a grand total of 60 writing prompts and essay ideas. Take a look and enjoy. Yeppers. As seventh graders get ready to transition into their turbulent teenage years, it's incredibly important for teachers to do everything they can to keep their students focused and grounded. Table of Contents.
Writing Prompts for 7th Grade. By seventh grade, students should be refining the core writing skills of brainstorming, researching, outlining, drafting, and revising. In order to hone these skills, seventh-grade students need regular practice writing a variety of essay styles, including narrative, persuasive, expository, and creative essays.
Spark your students' interest with these 100 7th grade expository writing prompts, including compare and contrast prompts, descriptive writing ideas, and more.
More 7th Grade Writing Resources. 7th Grade Writing Worksheets; 12 Ideas for Narrative Essays; 35 Humor Writing Prompts for Teens and Tweens; Free Mad Libs For Middle School Students; A Few Closing Thoughts. From essay writing to journaling about their typical day, writing is a major part of junior high and middle school lessons.
Conclusion. Writing Essays, and English grammar requires learning from expert English tutors, especially for 7 Graders who may also be preparing for NAPLAN. You can also find online math tutors on CrunchGrade - an online tutoring platform that has over 300+ tutors and 1000+ happy students like you. If you're confused about how it works, you ...
5. Make up a story about a seventh-grader who plays an April Fool's joke on classmates. 101 Great Middle School Writing Prompts. 6. Draft a gracious letter to the air, thanking it for all of its benefits. 7. Recall a memory of your sibling, cousin, or friend doing something hilariously funny. 8.
100 Writing Prompts for 7th Graders. Personal writing is like opening a window into your soul, allowing fresh insights to pour in and old doubts to flutter out. Every prompt is an invitation, a beckoning to delve deeper into your own psyche, experiences, and aspirations. From your bravest moments to your most profound failures, these questions ...
Creative Essay Writing Prompts. Creative essays are meant to be expressive, imaginative, and original. These writing prompts will get your students' creative juices flowing: 40. You own two pets from different species. Write a narrative from the perspective of your two pets about a day spent at home alone. 41.
Writing prompts provide a safe and judgment-free space for 7th graders to explore their thoughts, emotions, and personal experiences. Utilizing a diverse range of prompts and essay ideas, teachers can inspire creativity and help students find their unique voice. Encouraging self-reflection through prompts strengthens students' understanding ...
Children will be inspired to reflect on their experiences and consider their future objectives due to the seventh-grade writing prompts. 7th grade symbolizes the start of academic education and the transition to secondary school. It presents unique difficulties for many children. This is the ideal moment to encourage pupils to begin a notebook ...
More Free Grade 7 Writing Resources. Writing Prompts for 7th Grade (This is where you can find the prompts from the printable pdf and discover even more great writing information for your grade 7 child.). As seventh graders get ready to transition into their turbulent teenage years, it's incredibly important for teachers to do everything they can to keep their students focused and grounded.
Class 7 Essay Topics relating to different categories exist here. Students of 7th grade are advised to Read and Practice all covered English Essay Topics for 7th Std for enhancing your analytical & writing skills. For aiding in your practice sessions of essay writings, we have curated a list of English Essays for Grade 7 students from diverse ...
7th Grade Writing. Similar to the work they do in reading, 7th graders deepen their writing skills by using analysis, paying close attention to detail and providing reasons, proofs, and examples for the ideas they express. 7th graders write a variety of genres, including informative pieces, opinion pieces, and narratives and they complete both ...
Grade 7 ELA Writing - Argumentative BACKGROUND and PURPOSE . The WY-TOPP ELA test has a Writing portion for grades 3, 5, 7, and 9. Each writing test contains one or more passages that relate to a prompt. Students are required to read passages associated with a topic, and then write a response based on a prompt. This type of text-based
168 South 3rd Avenue. Oakdale. CA. 95361. 209-848-4884. 209-847-0155. 7th Grade Writing Samples - Oakdale Joint Unified School District.
Seventh graders sharpen their writing skills by writing arguments, essays, research reports, and stories — and presenting them to the class. Seventh graders need to avoid dangling modifiers, hasty drafts, and plagiarism! They rewrite to tighten their writing. They critique each other's essays to learn what's vague or missing.
Using Transition Words. In this worksheet, your students will learn how to properly use transition words in a sentence. Grade Levels: 4th and 5th Grade, 6th - 8th Grade, Grades K-12. CCSS Code (s): W.5.2.c, W.6.2.c, W.7.2.c. 2. Free, printable ELA Common Core Standards Worksheets for 7th grade writing skills. Use activities in class or home.
In this post, we are excited to share 15+ of our favorite texts for middle schoolers. To see all of our texts for middle school students visit our full library. 6th Grade. Literary Texts. "Fish Cheeks" by Amy Tan. In this short story by Amy Tan, the narrator explores her Chinese-American identity through the lens of food and family tradition.
To improve writing skills in seventh grade, students need to understand the basics of writing, practice regularly, and receive feedback. Reading is also essential to improving writing skills, as it helps students develop their vocabulary and grammar. Additionally, technology can play a significant role in enhancing writing skills, providing ...
ESSAY WRITING PARAGRAPH WRITING TIPS. Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea. Paragraphs should follow a logical sequence; students should group similar ideas together to avoid incoherence. Paragraphs should be denoted consistently; students should choose either to indent or skip a line.
Explore printable Essay Writing worksheets for 7th Grade. Essay Writing worksheets for Grade 7 are an essential resource for teachers looking to develop and enhance their students' reading and writing skills. These worksheets focus on various aspects of writing, including nonfiction writing, and are designed to help students in Grade 7 improve ...
Student Models. When you need an example written by a student, check out our vast collection of free student models. Scroll through the list, or search for a mode of writing such as "explanatory" or "persuasive.".
125 Words Every 7th Grader Should Know Vocabulary You Need to Succeed By analyzing student data and commonly taught texts, Vocabulary.com has compiled this collection of essential vocabulary for students in 7th grade. Master high-frequency, high-utility words that you'll encounter across the curriculum.