11+ creative writing prompts

Story titles

The most common 11+ writing task: write a story with the title given. The title can be taken in any direction, as long as the story fits it.

Tip: Plan a beginning, a problem and an ending before you start, and make sure the title matters to the story.

• Write a story called

  The Door That Wasn't There Yesterday

• Write a story called

  The Last Train Home

• Write a story called

  The Storm

• Write a story called

  Lost in the Museum

• Write a story called

  The Unexpected Visitor

• Write a story called

  The Secret Under the Floorboards

• Write a story called

  A Day I Will Never Forget

• Write a story called

  The Island

• Write a story called

  The Message in the Bottle

• Write a story called

  Footprints in the Snow

• Write a story called

  The Lighthouse Keeper

• Write a story called

  Trapped

• The Magic Paintbrush

  Imagine you find a magical paintbrush that brings whatever you paint to life. Write a story about the adventures you have with this paintbrush, the things you create, and the challenges you face.

  Easy20 minutes

• The Secret Door in the School Library

  While exploring the school library, you discover a hidden door behind a stack of old books. As you open the door, you find yourself in a magical world filled with talking animals and enchanted forests. Write a story about your adventures in this magical world. Who do you meet? What challenges do you face? How do you find your way back to the library?

  Easy20 minutes

• The Squirrel Who Needed Help

  Imagine you are playing in the park when you meet a talking squirrel who needs your help. Write a story about your adventure with the squirrel.

  Easy20 minutes

• The Carnival That Comes Once a Century

  Imagine you stumble upon a mysterious carnival that appears in your town once every hundred years. At this carnival, each ride and game brings you to a different world or teaches you a new skill. Write a story about your experiences at the Carnival of Curiosities, the friends you make, and the worlds you discover.

  Medium30 minutes

• The Clockmaker's Workshop

  Imagine stumbling upon a hidden workshop beneath an ancient clock tower in your town. The workshop belongs to a mysterious clockmaker who crafts magical timepieces that can transport you to different moments in time. As you explore, you find a watch that seems to glow with a strange light. Write a story about what happens when you decide to wind it up and how it transports you to an unexpected time and place. Who or what do you encounter? What challenges do you face, and how do you find your way back home? Describe your adventure and the lessons you learn along the way.

  Medium30 minutesFree with feedback

• The Talking Trees

  Imagine you discover a hidden path that leads to a magical forest where the trees can talk and share secrets. Write a story about your adventures in the Whispering Forest, including the friends you meet and the mysteries you uncover.

  Medium30 minutes

• Twenty Years from Now

  Imagine it is twenty years from now. Write a story about a day in your life, highlighting how futuristic technology shapes your daily activities and makes life easier.

  Medium30 minutes

• The Glowing Fossils

  Deep in the school basement, behind old PE equipment covered in dust, you discover a hidden door. Inside, you find an ancient chamber filled with strange, glowing fossils unlike anything you've learned about in science class. These fossils are not just remnants of the past—they hold mysterious powers that alter time itself. Write a story about your journey to uncover the secrets of these fossils. What adventures do you embark on as you try to understand their origin? How do they change your perspective on time and history? What unexpected allies or challenges do you encounter along the way?

  Hard40 minutes

• The Island That Wasn't on the Map

  Imagine you and your friends discover a mysterious island that doesn't appear on any map. As you explore, you uncover strange creatures, hidden treasures, and unexpected dangers. Write a story about your adventure on this island. Describe the island's unique features, how you and your friends work together, and the challenges you face. Will you find a way off the island or decide to stay longer? How does this adventure change you and your friendships?

  Hard40 minutes

• The Dream Weaver

  In an ordinary town, by an ancient oak tree, lies a forgotten attic filled with dusty old trinkets and faded memories. One day, as you're exploring this hidden space, you stumble upon a peculiar old wall hanging. As you touch it, the threads begin to glow and magically carry you into a world where dreams are woven into the fabric of reality. In this vibrant world, you meet the Dream Weaver, a mysterious figure who explains that your dreams, both big and small, hold unique powers. Suddenly, you realise one of your own dreams is becoming unravelled. Write a story about your quest to weave it back together, the enchanting creatures you meet along the way, and how you discover the true importance of dreams. What challenges do you face? How does this adventure change the way you see your everyday life?

  Expert40 minutes

Story openings to continue

Carry on from an opening sentence, keeping the same voice, person and tense as the writer who started it.

Tip: Keep the same person (I or he/she) and tense as the opening, and pick up the hook it gives you.

• Continue this story

  “The envelope had my name on it, but the handwriting belonged to someone who had left years ago.”

• Continue this story

  “Nobody believed me when I said the statue had moved.”

• Continue this story

  “The moment the lights went out, I heard the key turn in the lock.”

• Continue this story

  “It was the kind of silence that makes you hold your breath.”

• Continue this story

  “"Don't open it," Gran whispered, but my hand was already on the lid.”

• Continue this story

  “The map ended at the edge of the cliff, but the path kept going.”

• Continue this story

  “By the time I noticed the water, it was already up to my ankles.”

• Continue this story

  “I only meant to borrow the bicycle for an hour.”

• Continue this story

  “The new girl in our class never seemed to cast a shadow.”

• Continue this story

  “Rain hammered on the roof of the tent as something moved outside.”

Descriptions

Describe a place, person or moment so the reader can see, hear and feel it. There doesn't need to be a plot.

Tip: Use at least three senses, and move through the scene in an order the reader can follow (near to far, or moment to moment).

• Describe this scene

  A busy market just before it closes for the night.

• Describe this scene

  An empty playground on a foggy winter morning.

• Describe this scene

  A forest after a heavy thunderstorm.

• Describe this scene

  A railway platform as the last train pulls away.

• Describe this scene

  A seaside town on a stormy afternoon.

• Describe this scene

  The inside of an old attic that nobody has opened for years.

• Describe this scene

  A city street at the moment the power goes off.

• Describe this scene

  A frozen lake at sunrise.

• Describe this scene

  A crowded school hall on the day of the talent show.

• Describe this scene

  A garden at night, lit only by the moon.

• My Hero at Home

  Write about a family member who inspires you. Describe what they do that makes them special and why you look up to them.

  Easy20 minutes

• The Hidden Cave

  Imagine you are exploring the beach and stumble upon a hidden cave. Describe what you see inside this mysterious cave, using as much detail as possible.

  Easy20 minutes

• A Day in the Enchanted Forest

  Imagine you have stumbled upon a mysterious forest that no one else has ever seen before. Describe what you see, hear, smell, touch, and feel as you explore this enchanting place. Who or what might you encounter? What secrets might the forest hold?

  Medium30 minutes

• The Enchanted Garden

  Imagine you have discovered a secret garden hidden behind an ancient, ivy-covered gate. Describe the magical world you find inside. What kinds of plants and creatures live there? How does the air feel and what scents do you notice? What sounds can you hear as you wander through this enchanted place? Use as many descriptive details as you can to bring this garden to life for your reader.

  Medium30 minutesFree with feedback

• Thrills and Chills: A Rollercoaster Adventure

  Describe the feeling of being on a rollercoaster as if you were on a magical ride through a land of wonder. Use all your senses to bring this experience to life.

  Medium30 minutes

• The City Above the Clouds

  Imagine a city floating high above the clouds, accessible only by a secret staircase that appears once a year. You have been chosen by the mysterious Cloud Collector's Guild to visit this city on a special mission. Describe the breathtaking views, the unique buildings made from cloudstuff, and the intriguing inhabitants who walk through the shimmering mist. As you explore, you notice clouds being stored in fantastical jars. Write about your encounter with the city elder, who reveals a surprising secret about your world. What incredible sights do you witness? How does this experience change your understanding of the clouds floating above your head every day?

  Hard40 minutes

Persuasive letters and speeches

Some schools set a persuasive or discursive task instead of a story: argue a point of view to a clear audience.

Tip: Give three strong reasons with an example for each, answer the other side, and end by telling the reader what to do.

• Should We Have a Uniform-Free Day?

  Write an argumentative essay about whether or not your school should have a day where students do not have to wear uniforms. Explain why you think this would be a good or bad idea.

  Easy20 minutes

• Trip to a Theme Park

  Your task is to write to your headteacher, persuading them that a trip to a theme park would be an excellent way to finish the difficult school year.

  Easy20 minutes

• Why We Need a Class Pet

  Write a letter to your teacher to persuade them to bring a class pet into your classroom. Explain why it would be good for everyone.

  Easy20 minutes

• A Club for Curious Minds

  Write a letter to your headteacher asking to start a new after-school club called 'Curious Minds' where students can explore and learn about interesting topics like space, animals, and inventions.

  Medium30 minutes

• Join Our Recycling Campaign

  Imagine your school is surrounded by a sea of plastic waste, and you feel a surge of determination to make a difference. Write a persuasive letter to your best friend, urging them to join you in launching a school recycling campaign. Emphasise how your initiative will not only cleanse the environment but also ignite a passion in others to protect our planet.

  Medium30 minutes

• Should Our School Have a Garden?

  Write an argument about whether or not your school should start a garden. Explain why you think it's a good or bad idea.

  Medium30 minutes

• Should We Have More School Trips?

  Imagine your school is deciding whether to have more school trips throughout the year. Write a persuasive piece supporting or opposing the idea of increasing the number of school trips. Consider the benefits or drawbacks of these trips, such as learning opportunities, fun experiences, or potential costs. Use descriptive language to explain your viewpoint and provide strong reasons to convince your reader.

  Medium30 minutes

• Should We Have a No-Tech Day at School?

  Write an argumentative essay about whether or not your school should have a day where no technology is allowed. Explain why you think this would be a good or bad idea.

  Medium30 minutes

• The Charity Fun Run

  Imagine the thrill of running together as a team, not just for fitness, but for a noble cause. Write a persuasive letter to your sports coach, convincing them to organise a charity fun run. Highlight how this event will strengthen team spirit and raise substantial funds for a charity close to your heart. Use vivid descriptions to paint the picture of the fun run and its impact.

  Medium30 minutes

• Why I Should Join the Drama Club

  Imagine you've discovered a local drama club that promises to not only teach you the art of acting but also offers a platform to meet new people. Write a persuasive letter to your parent, explaining why joining this drama club is essential for your personal growth. Highlight how participating in drama will boost your confidence and facilitate making new friends, using real-life examples or scenarios to support your argument.

  Medium30 minutes

• A Skate Park for Our Town

  Imagine the excitement of young people as they envision a new community skate park in your town. Write a persuasive letter to a local council member, advocating for the construction of this skate park. Highlight how it will serve as a vibrant, safe space where youth can channel their energy into positive activities, encouraging physical fitness and community engagement.

  Hard40 minutes

• Forest Camp or Space Camp?

  Imagine your school is planning to organise a week-long adventure trip for students. However, there are two exciting options: a magical forest exploration or a futuristic space camp. Persuade your headteacher to choose the adventure you prefer. Explain why it's the best choice, and how it will benefit you and your classmates.

  Hard40 minutes

• Should Animals Be Kept in Zoos?

  Write a letter to your local newspaper to persuade readers whether or not animals should be kept in zoos. Explain your reasons clearly.

  Hard40 minutesFree with feedback

• Should Schools Read Our Dreams?

  Imagine a world where everyone owns a special helmet that can capture and visualise dreams. Some people argue that these helmets should be used by schools to help students understand their true passions and potential career paths. Others believe that dreams should remain private and using these helmets could invade personal privacy. Write a persuasive piece taking a position on whether schools should incorporate these dream-catching helmets into their curriculum. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of such technology. How might this tool influence students' lives and education? Use at least three reasons to support your stance.

  Expert40 minutes

Letters and diary entries

Write as yourself or a character to someone you know, or in a diary: a chance to show feelings and a natural voice.

Tip: Write in the first person and keep the tone right for the reader: chatty for a friend, private for a diary.

• My Best Holiday Ever

  Write a letter to your best friend describing your best holiday ever.

  Easy20 minutesFree with feedback

Reports, articles and explanations

Non-fiction tasks: a news report, an information text, a set of instructions or a biography for readers who weren't there.

Tip: Use a headline or title, short paragraphs with one idea each, and facts and details rather than feelings.

• Celebrating Our New Playground

  Write a news article about the opening day of your school's new playground. Include details about the events, games, and how students felt about the new space.

  Easy20 minutes

• How to Grow a Plant from a Seed

  Write a step-by-step guide on how to plant a seed in a pot and take care of it until it grows into a plant.

  Easy20 minutes

• How to Make Your Favourite Sandwich

  Write a step-by-step guide on how to make your favourite sandwich. Explain what ingredients you need and how to put them together.

  Easy20 minutes

• Sports Day

  Write a report about your school's recent sports day. Include details about the events, how students participated, and any special moments you remember.

  Easy20 minutesFree with feedback

• Twice a Day Keeps the Cavity Away: Why Brushing Your Teeth is Important

  Write an informative piece about why it's important to brush your teeth twice a day. Explain how brushing helps keep your mouth healthy and what can happen if you don't brush regularly.

  Easy20 minutes

• Why Children Need Exercise

  Write an informative piece about why exercise is important for children. Explain how it helps your body and mind, and share some fun ways to stay active.

  Easy20 minutes

• A Day in the Life of a Bee

  Imagine you are a tiny bee living in a bustling beehive. Write an informative piece about your daily life, and explain why bees are important to the environment. Use descriptive language to paint a picture of your surroundings and the tasks you do every day.

  Medium30 minutes

• A Local Hero

  Write about a person in your community who helps others. Explain what they do and why their work is important.

  Medium30 minutes

• How to Build a Simple Birdhouse

  Write a step-by-step guide on how to build a simple birdhouse using materials you can find at home. Explain what materials you need and how to assemble them.

  Medium30 minutes

• Our School Art Exhibition

  Write a news article about the recent art show at your school. Describe the artworks you saw, who made them, and what made the event special.

  Medium30 minutes

• The Magic Recipe Box

  Imagine you discover an old, dusty box hidden away in the attic. As you open it, you find it's full of mysterious recipe cards. But these aren't ordinary recipes! Each one, when followed correctly, creates a dish with a magical twist. Perhaps a cake that makes you giggle uncontrollably or a soup that lets you speak any language for a day. Your task is to write a 'how-to' guide for preparing one of these enchanted dishes. Be sure to describe the ingredients, the peculiar steps involved, and the surprising outcome once someone tries the magical creation. How do you ensure the magic works just right, and what advice do you have for handling any magical mishaps?

  Medium30 minutes

• Why Bees Matter

  Write an informative piece about why bees are important to our environment. Explain how they help plants grow and what would happen if there were no bees.

  Medium30 minutes

• Why Learn a New Language?

  Write an informative piece about why learning a new language can be helpful. Explain how it can open up new opportunities and help you understand different cultures.

  Medium30 minutes

• Report from the Deep

  Imagine you are an explorer who has just returned from a journey to the deepest parts of the ocean. Write an informative report about the incredible sights and creatures you discovered beneath the waves. Include descriptions of at least three unique sea creatures and explain how they survive in their underwater habitat. Remember to share interesting facts and use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture for your reader.

  Hard40 minutes

• The Day Gravity Took a Holiday

  This morning, residents all over the town were in for a shock when gravity decided to take an unexpected break, causing anything not tied down to slowly float upwards! As a junior reporter for the 'Skyward News Daily', it's your responsibility to cover this unusual event. Who first noticed the phenomenon, and how did the townsfolk react as cars began to drift and bicycles hovered above the streets? Interview a scientist who explains the possible causes and a local child who describes their surprising adventure playing catch with a flying disc that never comes down. Write an engaging news article detailing eyewitness accounts, expert opinions, and the town’s attempts to navigate this gravity-defying day. Wrap up with a hopeful message about how the townspeople creatively adapted to this 'light' challenge.

  Hard40 minutes

• The Day the Sun Turned Blue

  You are a junior reporter for a very special newspaper called 'The Rainbow Times,' a publication that reports on extraordinary occurrences from around the world. One day, a mysterious headline appears on your desk: 'The Day the Sun Turned Blue!' It's your task to investigate this phenomenon. Was it a scientific anomaly, a magical event, or a clever hoax? Describe your journey to uncover the truth behind the blue sun. Who do you interview, and what strange clues or surprising evidence do you discover? Write a report detailing your investigation, how you gather and verify information, and your conclusions about what truly happened.

  Hard40 minutes

• The Life of Captain Time Tinker

  You are tasked with writing the biography of Captain Time Tinker, a legendary inventor who revolutionised time travel. Born in an unusually quiet town where the rivers flowed backwards, Captain Tinker was always fascinated by clocks and the mysteries of time from a young age. Describe his early life, his groundbreaking invention—the Time Twister 3000, and how it changed the world. What challenges did he face as he perfected his device? Who were his allies and adversaries in his quest to unravel the fabric of time? As you tell his story, include fascinating anecdotes, significant achievements, and his eventual mysterious disappearance. What legacy did Captain Tinker leave behind, and how is he remembered today?

  Hard40 minutes

• A Day Online

  Imagine a day in the life of a young person who is heavily influenced by social media. Describe how their thoughts, feelings, and actions are shaped by what they see online. Do you think social media plays a positive or negative role in their life, and why?

  Expert40 minutes

• The Talking Museum

  Imagine a museum where each exhibit has its own story to tell, quite literally. This special museum does not use labels to explain its artefacts but instead lets the objects whisper their past into the ears of visitors. Today, you are tasked with guiding a group of curious newcomers through this unusual museum. Your challenge is to explain how these whispering artefacts work. Write an informative piece detailing the technology behind these talking objects, describing at least three captivating exhibits and their stories. How do visitors interact with the exhibits? What are the benefits of experiencing history this way?

  Expert40 minutes

Poems

Less common in the 11+, but good practice for vivid, precise language.

Tip: Choose every word carefully, and read the poem aloud to hear its rhythm.

• Into the Forest

  Imagine stepping into a magical forest where every leaf, tree, and creature has its own secret story to tell. Write a poem about your journey through this enchanted place, describing the sights, sounds, and feelings you experience. Use vivid imagery and try to include some rhymes. What mysteries do you uncover? What emotions do you feel as you wander through this mystical world?

  Medium30 minutesFree with feedback

• When the Colours Quarrelled

  In a world where colours are more than just hues, each has its own distinct sound and personality. Imagine a day when the Colour Maestro, the master of this vibrant realm, loses control of the colours. The reds start to quarrel with the blues, creating chaotic melodies, while the yellows and greens dance wildly, causing a cacophony of sound. As a young apprentice to the Colour Maestro, it's up to you to restore harmony. Write a poem describing the journey you take through this colour-filled world. Use imagery, rhythm, and sound to bring the personalities of these colours to life and explore how you bring harmony back to their symphony.

  Expert40 minutes