Understanding Writing Prompts: How to Decode and Respond

This lesson teaches how to analyze writing prompts by identifying keywords and determining whether to write a narrative or an essay. It covers the three steps of the writing process: generating ideas, drafting, and revising/editing. The lesson emphasizes the importance of understanding the prompt before writing and provides a step-by-step guide to analyzing prompts. An example prompt is used to demonstrate how to circle keywords and decide on the writing type, ensuring a clear understanding of the task requirements.

What is the first step in the writing process?

• Writing drafts

• Generating ideas

• Revising and editing

• Submitting the final piece

Why is it important to understand a writing prompt before starting?

• To avoid writing altogether

• To impress the teacher

• To ensure you address the correct task

• To save time

What is the second step in analyzing a writing prompt?

• Submitting the essay

• Revising the essay

• Circling the keywords

• Writing a draft

Which keyword in the example prompt indicates an action you must take?

• Think

• Happy

• Places

• People

What type of writing is suggested by the prompt in the example?

• A poem

• A narrative

• An essay

• A report