Utilizing these free resources will provide continuous support and variety, helping to maintain your child's interest and progress in their writing skills.

Sentence starters

Sentence starters are great tools for writing practice, especially in the early years, as they provide primary students with a structured beginning to their thoughts, making it easier to develop simple sentences. Sentence starters are similar to story prompts, and are often editable, so feel free to change them around based on your young writer’s learning level and interests!

When I finish my schoolwork, I will…
This weekend, I am looking forward to…
My favorite place I have ever visited is…
My favorite person to be with is…
Once upon a time there was…

Super sentences

Super sentences are excellent for improving writing skills as they encourage students to practice sequencing their thoughts and ideas. By using specific word combinations, students can create coherent and engaging sentences that boost their overall writing proficiency. This is also a great technique for story starters,

Write a sentence using the words: great, game, fun
Write a sentence using the words: red, green, garden
Write a sentence using the words: dog, cat, pet
Write a sentence using the words: school, worksheets, learners
Write a sentence using the words: flying, sky, fairy tales

‘I think’ prompts

'I think' prompts are effective tools for developing critical thinking and writing skills in students, especially in the early key stages. These prompts serve as organisers for thoughts, helping students articulate their opinions and reasoning. If your child is more of a visual learner, use picture prompts to help stimulate their ideas and support the writing process.

Which game is the best?
Why is reading important?
What is the best type of food?
Why should we eat fruit and vegetables?
Where is the best place to go on holiday?

Journal prompts

Journal prompts are a great way to encourage narrative writing by helping students reflect on personal experiences. You can make this activity more structured by using prompt cards and writing templates. This approach supports writing skills while making journaling more engaging and fun.

Last weekend I…
Write about a time that you went to the park.
This summer, I will…
I love my family because…
Write about something fun you have done with your family.

General prompts

General prompts are excellent for sparking creativity and improving writing skills. General prompts help students quickly engage with an idea, making writing more enjoyable and effective for everyone. You can write different prompts on flashcards and have your child choose randomly. Practice with creative thinking will help your child with story writing later in primary school.

What would you do if you found a dog?
Write about a time you were kind to someone.
If you could have one wish, what would it be?
What would you do if you could be invisible?
What are your favorite fairy tales and why?

How Night Zookeeper can help

Night Zookeeper makes writing fantastically fun for children aged six to twelve!

Our award-winning writing program for kids features an array of creative writing prompts, games, and interactive lessons, created to inspire children to write. We have designed our writing program to work in both home and school settings, so you’ll be covered whether you’re a parent, teacher, or homeschooler!

Learn More

Year 1 Writing Prompts

Inspire creative writing

Sentence starters

Super sentences

‘I think’ prompts

Journal prompts

General prompts

How Night Zookeeper can help

More writing prompts & activities

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