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50 Creative Third Grade Writing Prompts (Free Printable!)

Taking the leap from the primary level to the intermediate grades.

Third grade is a huge transitional year in elementary school. Third grade writers have learned foundational concepts and skills and have had time to practice. Now they are developing more complex skills as they dig deeper, learn to make connections, and analyze the topics they write about. Here are 50 third grade writing prompts to help your students master and refine their writing skills.

If you’d like even more upper elementary writing prompts, we publish new ones twice a week on our kid-friendly site: the Daily Classroom Hub . Make sure to bookmark the link!

(Want this entire set in one easy document? Get your free PowerPoint bundle by submitting your email here, so you’ll always have the prompts available!)

1. Tell about a special event in your life.

2. What are you best at?

3. What do you want to learn more about?

4. I could never live without______.

5. If you could go anyplace in the world, where would you go and why?

6. Interview one of your parents or grandparents and ask them to tell you a story from their childhood. Share their story here.

7. Describe one of your favorite book characters. Tell three things about their personality.

8. Do you think third graders should have to do chores at home? Why or why not?

9. What is something you would change about school if you could?

10. Tell about a time you helped somebody.

11. Tell about a time somebody helped you.

12. Tell about a memorable “first” in your life. For example, the first time you ate a particular kind of food, the first time you met your teacher, etc.

13. Describe step by step how to make a pizza.

14. What does it mean to be a hero?

15. I am afraid of _______ because_______.

16. What is the difference between being polite and rude? Give three examples.

17. What is the most important rule in the classroom?

18. What are the three most important qualities you look for in a friend?

19. Do you think kids should be assigned homework? Why or why not?

20. Nature gives us many beautiful things—plants, animals, water, weather, stars and planets, etc. What is one of your favorite things in nature and why?

21. If I were a spider, I’d _______.

22. Three things that make me happy are ______.

23. What is your favorite holiday and why?

24. Tell about one of your family’s unique traditions.

25. If you could have a pet, what would you choose? How would you take care of it?

26. Write about a dream you recently had.

27. Tell about a person that inspires you and why.

28. Name five things you are thankful for and why you are thankful for them.

29. What are ways you can be a good citizen?

30. When you and a friend disagree, how do you work it out?

31. What do you think the world will be like in one hundred years?

32. What is your favorite type of weather? Why?

33. What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

34. What famous person would you like to meet? Why?

35. In your opinion, which animal makes the best pet? Give three reasons for your answer.

36. If someone gave you $100, how would you spend it?

37. Should third graders have cell phones? Why or why not?

38. If you could be an Olympic athlete, what sport would you participate in?

39. Write about your “getting ready for school” routine.

40. Write about your “getting ready for bed” routine.

41. If you could travel through time like Jack and Annie in the Magic Tree House, where would you go?

42. In your opinion, what does a perfect weekend look like?

43. Write about the last time you felt really angry. What happened and how did it all work out?

44. Pretend there was a special zoo where animals could talk. Which animal would you talk to and what are three questions you would ask?

45. What is your favorite thing with wheels? Why?

46. Tell the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears from the point of view of Baby Bear.

47. What do you think would grow if you planted a magic bean?

48. Which would you rather be able to do—fly or read people’s minds? Why?

49. Tell about an adult in your life that you admire.

50. If you were traveling for a week and could only bring a backpack, what would you pack?

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100 Fun Third-Grade Writing Prompts for Kids: Journal Prompts

• Journal Writing Prompts
• Funny Writing Prompts
• Narrative Essay Writing Prompts
• Fiction Writing Prompts
• Poetry Writing Prompts 
• Informative Essay Writing Prompts
• Opinion Writing Prompts
• Animal Writing Prompts
• Descriptive Writing Prompts
• Emotion Writing Prompts

The power of stories is immense. It not only unlocks the imagination but also improves creativity and vocabulary. For kids as young as third graders , writing prompts can be beneficial to kick-start their writing spree. It is a great way to build various genres of writing skills in kids- from narrative and informative to poetic and funny.

Stick to this blog to track down century options of 3rd grade writing prompts for kids .

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Here are more educational resources to get your third grader learning!

6 Reasons To Give Your 3rd Graders a Writing Prompt?

When it comes to keeping your students busy with something beneficial, writing prompts are a wonderful tool. Here are a few major ways in which 3rd grade journal prompts can help children.

• Allows children to think around creatively
• Enhances a sense of expression
• Eliminates the dread of writing
• Improves story-telling
• Boosts self-confidence in children
• Refines grammar, spelling, and handwriting with practice

While they get busy writing the best out of their imagination, you can enjoy a sip of hot coffee (a bonus, you know!).

100 Fun Third-Grade Writing Prompts for Kids

10 journal writing prompts.

The habit of journaling must be inculcated in kids from a young age. Wondering why? Well, it goes a long way in developing the ‘writer-like’ mindset in them. Moreover, journaling is known to be a stress reliever in teens and adults alike. Whether they make it a daily or alternate habit later, here are ten examples of 3rd grade journal topics that can be perfect for giving them a needed push.

1. What has been your favorite memory of 2nd grade ?

2. On a rainy day, would you rather be inside or outside? Why?

3. How did you meet your best friend?

4. What flavor of chips do you like the most and why?

5. Who is the favorite cousin in the family?

6. When was the last time you had your favorite dinner outside?

7. Do you have someone who makes you feel special? Who and How?

8. Which school period do you like the most and why?

9. What are you most thankful for in life and why?

10. What is your favorite cartoon character?

10 Funny Writing Prompts

This is every child’s favorite! Funny Writing prompts can help develop an expression of humor sense in young children. Moreover, it will allow the classroom to have a light moment together when each of them will read their chucklesome experiences aloud. We can already hear the giggles!

Check out these fun writing prompts for 3rd grade kids.

1. If your pencil boxes could talk to each other, what would they be?

2. What if you were an Easter egg?

3. Imagine if cows gave ‘Skittles’ instead of milk. What would the world be like?

4. What makes you laugh?

5. What was the best joke that your best friend cracked recently? How can you make it funnier?

6. What would happen if it did rain cats and dogs?

7. Imagine there’s a kangaroo in the classroom. How did it reach there, and what would the scenario be like?

8. Would you rather wear a swimming suit in a snowstorm or wear a snowsuit to the beach? Which kind of silly will you be and why?

9. Write a review of the animated movie for kids that you have seen recently.

10. Imagine you and your best friend switch families for a day. What would the day be like?

10 Narrative Essay Writing Prompts

Narrative essay prompts can sow seeds for a future author of an American best-seller. One of the most favored writing prompts by teachers, 3rd grade narrative writing prompts expect students to tell a story based on their imagination or actual incidents. They could either build their story on dialogues or use descriptive writing. Let’s head to the list.

1. If your shoe could speak, what story would it tell?

2. One fine morning, you woke up with wings. Narrate the day.

3. If you are allowed to make classroom rules , which new rule would you make and why?

4. Make a story about where thunder comes from.

5. Imagine a boy who only eats oranges to survive. Narrate the story of his life.

6. Describe your last vacation. Where did you go, and what did you do?

7. What is the most interesting story that your family member has told you about?

8. You are given $200 to spread kindness around your city. How will you spend it?

9. If you could fly wherever you would want to, what places would you go and why?

10. What is one thing you do very well? Describe it in detail.

10 Fiction Writing Prompts

Here’s another set of 3rd grade writing prompts that will make the creative juices flow in the students. Fiction writing prompts are a great stimulus for young minds to develop their characters, work on a plot line and narrate a story. 

They not only allow expand their imagination in children but gives them an opportunity to enjoy the writing process. Have a look at writing ideas for 3rd grade students:

1. What story does a camera want to tell the world?

2. A princess is trapped in a castle that is guarded by a beast. Instead of waiting for her prince charming to save her, she uses the resources and tools from inside the castle to build her escape plan. What all would she use and how? Write her escape story.

3. ‘There was a knock on the door. I opened it and saw a cat sitting there and,….’. Finish the story.

4. You had a chance to take over your father’s job for a day. Write a story narrating all your day’s events.

5. ‘On a vacation to paradise, something unexpected happens.’ Continue with the story.

6. There was a butterfly in Ohio who needed to earn the colors for herself. She could only earn five colors for herself. What would she do to earn colors, and how?

7. One day, you woke up and realize that you have a magic pen next to you. Narrate the events that followed it.

8. Imagine you get to choose how you would want to live your next 50 years. What would you choose? Who will be the people with you?

9. Your balloon just blew away! Write the story from the balloon’s perspective.

10. You ate a brownie, and now you are 20 feet tall. What do you do next?

10 Poetry Writing Prompts 

With Tik Toks and Reels throwing rubbish in the name of poems for kids , now is the time to introduce young minds to the real essence of poetry. They must be taught the power of syllables, rhymes, apostrophes, punctuation, and word choice to recognize the poetry. 

Poetry Writing Prompts can give good practice to 3rd graders to improve their phrasing ideas and, ultimately, the poetry sense! Whether it’s a limerick or haiku, here’s the suggestion list that you shouldn’t miss.

1. ‘Whenever I sing a silly song,

Whenever I daydream for too long..’ Continue the poem.

2. ‘Within the wrapping paper brown,

the smallest gift I’ve found. Write a poem to talk about the gift.

3. ‘Dear Friend,’. Write a short poem for your best friend.

4. Challenge yourself to write a poem that is no longer than 25 words.

5. Imagine you came from another planet, lost on Earth, and longing for home. Write short poetry to express yourself.

6. ‘Look at the stars and name them all….’ Continue an interesting poem.

7. ‘Through the trees, I go…’ Write a few lines of a Haiku poem.

8. Write a poem about your grandparents.

9. ‘It was quite a big day for me.’ Write a limerick using this line.

10. ‘I met a funny little woman,

As I walked along one day…’ Write a silly poem using this starter.

10 Informative Essay Writing Prompts

A highly beneficial writing exercise for all ages, informative writing prompts are about informing the reader without persuading or making an opinion to it. For 3rd graders, these essays could be a powerful tool to enable them to write from what they already know. It advances their memorization, learning, and reflective ability in them.

Check out the ideas that can be used as writing topics for 3rd graders.

1. Write a process to build a birdhouse in your backyard.

2. If you could meet any famous person in the world, who would it be and what conversion would you have with them?

3. Why is it important to preserve the environment around us? How can you help with it?

4. Do you have a pet? If yes, how do you take care of it?

5. Describe what all do you see on your way to school.

6. How do you prepare for a test? Share some tips with your friends.

7. Write the importance of a healthy diet in our lives. How can we make our diet healthier?

8. Describe life in the coldest cities of the world. Would you live in such places?

9. Doctors, Firefighters, Policemen, Delivery boys, etc., are all heroes. Write about their selfless contribution to our lives.

10. Why do leaves change color during autumn?

10 Opinion Writing Prompts

We all have opinions, and so do the little ones! Teaching young kids to form an opinion can be rewarding for their future goals and personality development. 

It is important to familiarize them with understanding their mind and heart and strike a balance between the two. Opinion writing prompts for 3rd graders can be instrumental in getting them moving in that direction.

To ease the writing process, you can teach the kids about the OREO framework.

O – Opinions

E – Examples

O – Opinion (restated in a concluding note)

Let’s dive into some interesting topics for 3rd grade writing prompts.

1. Do you think teachers should give homework to students?

2. What are some important rules that must be followed in life?

3. How to become a kind human being?

4. What do you do when you are angry? Write some ways to calm yourself down.

5. How to make yourself happy when you are sad? Write from your experience.

6. What is the best restaurant in your city, and why?

7. Should 10-year-olds have their mobile phone? Why or why not?

8. Why should children not eat chocolates very frequently? How should they practice control?

9. Should everyone wear school uniforms in school? Why or why not?

10. If there could only be one season throughout the year, which one would you choose and why?

10 Animal Writing Prompts

If animals bring so much joy to us just by existing, how joyful it’d be to write about them? There are so many reasons to ask children to write about animals. It can be a wonderful way to enhance their creativity, fascination, attention to detail, and of course, writing skills. 

Here’s a list of animal writing prompts for 3rd graders.

1. Which animal would you like to meet and why?

2. Would you rather have a rabbit or a penguin as a pet? Why?

3. If you had a chance to become one farm animal, which one would it be and why?

4. If I were a turtle, I would…

5. Imagine waking up in the morning and seeing your favorite animal getting ready for school. What would the scenario be like?

6. Write how the world would be if humans could talk to animals.

7. You can choose either an animal or a human as your best friend. Which one would you pick and why?

8. If you could choose a different name for ‘Cow,’ what would it be? Why?

9. What I know about chickens is that….

10. A fish took a solo trip to London. Narrate the story.

10 Descriptive Writing Prompts

What do you do when you want your students to go into the tiniest details while writing? Try Descriptive writing prompts for 3rd graders. Whether they write a story or a personal experience, ignite the spark of description with these writing prompts.

1. What is your favorite math game ? Why do you like it? Also, write the steps to play.

2. Imagine you are traveling on a ship in the ocean. What does your ship look like? And, why would you like the best about your ship? Describe your journey.

3. Describe your favorite activity in the mall.

4. Which is better, winter or summer? Support your take with reasons.

5. Share a memorable experience at the park. What made it so memorable? Would you like to relive it?

6. Describe a beautiful scene from nature.

7. Alice gets to visit Wonderland in the movie ‘Alice in Wonderland.’ Describe all that you can think about Wonderland- the location, the environment, the colors, the people, etc.

8. What is a perfect day for you? Include the weather, your clothes, your friends, what you eat, and your activities.

9. Write a description of a trip to the zoo.

10. Who is your favorite teacher, and why? Describe him/her.

10 Emotion Writing Prompts

School is not limited to books and assignments. It’s also about preparing students to reflect on their feelings and being able to jot them down. Guess what? Emotion prompts can be the right choice here as well! They inspire creativity in kids and aid them in connecting with their feelings and emotions. Few third-grade emotion prompts that you shouldn’t miss.

1. My biggest dream is…

2. My favorite thing about myself…

3. What do you do when you make a mistake? How do you feel?

4. When was the last time you helped someone? What was it about?

5. Write about the happiest day of your life.

6. If you could have any special talent, what would it be and why?

7. What five things do you love about your family?

8. I feel sad when…

9. Imagine your friend is feeling scared. What would you do to calm him/her down?

10. Write a list of 10 things you are grateful for.

Now that you know 100 writing prompts for 3rd grade, there’s nothing that can stop your students shape into brilliant writers. However, a little something that we would like you to know- make writing as much fun as possible for these young minds. Look at a few tips which will help you chart out easy ways to teach writing to 3rd graders.

5 Steps To Help 3rd Graders With Writing

Step 1: sentence-formation.

If students struggle with understanding and forming sentences, they must be taught sentences as a single complete thought. Reading sentences aloud with necessary pauses will bring more clarity to them about the nature of a sentence. Let the children practice in small groups to make the instructions more effective.

 Step 2: Paragraph Writing

The next step will be to familiarize the children with writing small paragraphs. Don’t go throwing the list of 3rd grade writing prompts in one go. Instead, focus on strengthening the core concepts of writing. Introduce children to the parts of a paragraph-head, body, and conclusion.

Step 3: The ‘Sandwich’ Rule

It is a great way to simplify the writing process for third-graders. Teach the children that writing a paragraph is similar to making a sandwich. 

It begins with a piece of bread, i.e., the topic sentence, followed by adding some ingredients in the middle, i.e., the transition sentences, and finally, fishing it with another piece of bread, i.e., the concluding sentences. 

The rule can also be practiced in small groups to enjoy the maximum benefits.

Step 4: Additional Cues

Besides creative writing prompts for 3rd graders, emphasis must be made on using words like ‘because,’ ‘since,’ ‘for example,’ ‘another,’ ‘also,’ etc., to make meaningful connections while writing. Set 30 minutes initially for most pieces. Once they have had enough practice, you can reduce the time accordingly.

Step 5: Technical Cues

In the age of digitization, you cannot fathom eliminating the aid of digital tools to help children write. Teachers must pick something fun and let the students research about them on the internet. Noting down the point will help them build a story or idea smoothly.

Get, Set, Writing!

Writing prompts are not the end but the beginning of a brilliant writing spree for your students. Nonetheless, encouragement and support from your side are imperative to build their confidence. We hope the class will enjoy these 3rd grade writing prompts as much as we enjoyed curating them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How should i motivate my child to write at home.

Before introducing them to prompts, the most important way you can help your child with writing is to give them a journal, a storybook, a pencil, and an eraser. Keep a separate basket for their stationary supplies so that they can instantly grab them whenever they are in the mood to write.

What can be the first set of prompts that I should begin with?

Children are most closely knit to their parents. Giving them writing prompts to recount a happy family vacation or their favorite family members can be an ideal beginning. Moreover, in the classroom, teachers can use prompts related to their best friend, learning environment, and favorite school activity.

How many writing prompts can I use in one go?

Depends on the length of the class period. However, it is recommended to use one prompt in each class to preserve the class’s interest. Otherwise, children often feel burnout and pressure from having too many topics to write on in a single class.

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Fun Creative Writing Topics and Prompts for Third Grade

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Sometimes, creative writing assignments aren’t just confusing for the student. 

What should a 3rd grader write about?

What should your expectations be? How can you help your student succeed?

Today’s post is all about helping you source creative writing topics that are perfectly suited for third grade (or upper elementary).

What Makes Creative Writing Different?

Creative writing can be tricky to explain to a student, especially if you’re working with a child who is used to thinking conventionally. 

In a nutshell, it differs from academic or essay-style writing in that it highlights the writer’s imagination and creative invention. 

The artistic nature of creative writing can make some students nervous. That’s why clear-cut creative writing examples are incredibly helpful. 

get this picture prompt printable for free!

It’s also helpful to let them read or listen to creative short stories to provide ideas of how to begin. Seeing examples illustrates how to write creatively better than trying to explain it in words.

Another important aspect of creative writing is that it doesn’t have to be true – or even based on fact. It can be difficult for a third grader to believe it’s okay to stray from reality. Eggs and ham aren’t green, so why pretend they are?

Discuss potential story writing topics with your child so you can help him or her break down those restrictions. 

Sharing examples will help them see the liberty (and fun!) that creative writing offers. 

Creative Writing Tips and Techniques for Grade 3

For elementary students, good topics for creative writing are broad enough for the student to use his imagination but not so broad that he has no idea where to begin. 

Instead of just handing him a topic such as “outer space,” try a narrower topic, such as “tell me a story about boy in the future who travels to the moon with his class for a science field trip.”

Here are a few more tips to help while you’re working on creative writing with your own third grader:

• Story writing ideas or topics can range from telling a made-up story about what happened at dinner last night to creating an amazing adventure or imaginary world.
• When you teach writing to 3rd graders , it’s helpful to give them several creative writing ideas to unleash their imaginations.
• Try recording your students as they tell a story. More than likely, just talking about the story they want to write will help them gather their thoughts.
• If you’re not sure how to start an introduction paragraph for a third grader , have her look at examples of her favorite books to see how the authors pique her interest immediately.
• Discuss the elements of the story beforehand to help it feel more real to your student. Ask him questions about the setting—when it’s happening and where—as well as the plot. Talk to him about the main characters, guiding him with questions that help him see through the characters’ eyes and better envision what they might do.
• If your student really can’t get started, set a timer and just have him write whatever comes to mind. There’s nothing uncorks writer’s block faster than just sitting down and writing—even if it starts out as nonsense.
• Encourage your student to use literary devices such as similes and metaphors, even if she doesn’t know those terms. Explain how a teddy bear’s fur can be “like a cloud” or that a hard worker can be a “busy bee.”

Above all, to encourage successful creative writing, encourage your students to write about topics they enjoy. Their pleasure will reflect in their stories.

12 Creative Writing Topics for Third Grade That Inspire Imaginative Stories

Speaking of enjoyable topics, here are some examples of creative writing topics paired with question prompts to get your student started:

1. Imagine you step outside, and all the grass has turned blue. What do you do? 

The key to a good creative writing topic is, well, creativity! Whimsical topics inspire students to unleash their imagination and enjoy writing. 

If your third grader has been reluctant to write lately, it might be time to pull out a fantastical scene like this one and “let them loose” so to speak. 

Encourage your student to brainstorm a bit before writing. 

These prompts can help:

• What made the grass turn blue?
• Is it a good thing? Does it cause problems?
• Can you fix it? Will the grass ever be green again?

2. What if you woke up and realized you had switched bodies with someone else in your family? 

A topic like this is a great exercise for the mind. It may even help him gain a little empathy as he writes and realizes how different a parent’s day is from a child’s.

Some prompts to help him get going:

• Which family member do you think would be most interesting to trade bodies with for a day? 
• Would it be exciting or scary to wake up as that person? 
• Would your characters keep it a secret?

3. What if your pet could talk but only to you? 

Some of the more appealing creative writing topics for kids are those where students can easily form ideas (which builds confidence). 

Most children already talk to their pets, so it’s not a huge leap to imagine them talking back. Use that headstart to build a story.

4. What would you do if you found a treasure map?

Finding a treasure map can inspire many tales. The plots are endless! 

A few questions to get your child started:

• Where was it found? 
• Was it put there by pirates, a king, or your great grandmother? 
• Is it in code? 
• How do you figure out where the treasure is?

5. What if there was a sweet, lovable, non-scary monster who lived under your bed?

This creative writing topic takes the monster-under-the-bed and transforms him into a friend. 

• What if every night, after Mom and Dad tuck you in, you get to spend some time with an interesting creature known only to you?

6. What if your closet door is really a door to another world?

This Narnia -style prompt inspires students to describe a secret fantasy world. Help them get into the groove by discussing the many characters they encounter. 

• Are they magical creatures or copies of everyday people he knows now? 
• What kind of world lies on the other side of his closet? 
• What’s happening there? 
• Is it similar to our world or vastly different?

7. Create an imaginary friend and take him on some adventures with you.

This type of freewriting prompt for 3rd grade students allows for more exploration. It’s a broader topic for the child who already thinks creatively and won’t be overwhelmed by its broadness. 

If your student likes this topic but still needs some inspiration, here are some questions to ask:

• How old is your friend? 
• Is it a boy or a girl? 
• What type of creature is he – human, animal, bug, robot, or something else? 
• What’s something you’d love to do with a friend if you could do anything you want to do?

8. Rewrite a fairy tale so that it takes place today in your own town.

This writing topic alleviates some uncertainty a third grader may have in getting started. Once your student chooses a fairy tale, then it’s just a matter of re-forming the characters and setting. 

It’s a wonderful topic for students who need more structure than the average creative writing assignment provides.

9. Explore and describe the dusty old attic of a dilapidated mansion.

This topic is one of the more descriptive writing topics for grade 3 . It’s compelling to think about, but it doesn’t have to be too bizarre.

(Check out this post for examples of descriptive writing .) 

Your student can be as creative and imaginative as he or she desires. 

Your third grader can create descriptions of realistic objects found in an old attic, or he can dive deep and paint images of ancient or other-worldly artifacts.

10. Imagine your parents won a million dollars. How would your life change?

Let his imagination soar, describing the planes he plans to pilot around the world or the mansion in which he’ll entertain world leaders.

Perhaps he’ll purchase a private island and find hidden treasure or build an orphanage in a third-world country. 

11. What if your dolls have their own secret lives when you’re not around?

This creative writing topic has, of course, been explored by many published authors, which just proves it’s a captivating one. 

Questions to get started:

• What do your dolls do when they “wake up”?
• Do they go anywhere?
• Do they have jobs?

12. Imagine your older cousin is getting married and asks you to be a bridesmaid (or groomsman). Tell me all about the wedding and your part in it.

Creative writing prompts for grade 3 can also be about a realistic but fictional situation, like participating in a wedding. 

Third grade girls, especially, may enjoy planning a fantasy wedding. She may even wish to pen her own wedding!

Have her describe the dresses, the flowers, the decorations, the ceremony, and anything else she’s interested in. 

If your child chooses this topic, be sure to tuck her written work away for later—what a fun story to share at her own “real life” wedding!

bring excitement into your student’s writing – no prep required!

About the author.

Jordan Mitchell

Creative 3rd Grade Narrative Writing Prompts: Telling a Great Story

by Studentreasures | May. 22, 2019 | Writing Prompts

Check out these prompts to get your students’ creative juices flowing!

3rd Grade Narrative Writing Prompts that Encourage Great Storytelling and Creativity

Help your students go from an idea to a paragraph to a fully realized story with these narrative writing activities. These prompts are sure to engage your students and get them thinking outside the box.

In addition to practicing writing, prompts like this presents the perfect opportunity to create a classbook. If you take the writing exercises and include student’s illustrations of their narratives, you have what you need to create a classbook that tells a great story!

Writing Prompt #1: You have invented a time machine. Tell me when and where you went and what happened.

The time machine narrative is a great way to engage your students in imaginative thinking as well as a little bit of history. Before your students work with this prompt, have them do a brainstorming session where they answer the following questions:

• Which period of history haveyou always been interested in? (For example, prehistoric, the dark ages, etc.)
• If you could travel to any place in the world, where would you go? It can be somewhere you’ve already been or someplace new.
• Would you rather go into the past or the future? Why?
• If you could use three words to describe your time machine journey, what would they be?

Having your students take a moment to brainstorm before they jump into the writing will give them a chance to organize their thoughts and figure out what story they want to tell.

PROJECT IDEA

Once your students have developed their writing ideas, have them do a bit of research on the time period they have chosen if it is in the past or write down several ideas on what they think the future would be like. After your students organize their ideas and complete their piece of writing, have them do an illustration of what their time machine and journey would look like. This is a great way to memorialize  every students’ story and showcase their imagination and narrative skills in a time traveling classbook.

Writing Prompt #2: You are a hero. What happened the day you became a hero?

This 3rd grade narrative prompt is a great way to get your students thinking about action and plot, two key components of storytelling. Plus, students get to imagine themselves as a hero and foster empathy as they create a scenario where they help others.

Before you have students jump into this prompt, it’s a great idea to have them create an outline of the actions that they think would happen if they became a hero. Introduce them to the narrative storytelling arc that will help them understand how a beginning, a middle, and an end functions. Then have them fill out worksheets to brainstorm what the arc of their story will look like, and what actions or plot points will occur along the way.

Having this outline will help them see the value in planning ahead and walk them through the process of writing that starts at brainstorming and ends with a full-length, cohesive story and complete the writing portion of the project.

Click to view flipbook>>

Your students have spent a great deal of time thinking and writing about what they would do as a hero, why not have them imagine what they would look like as a hero? Have your students draw and design their own hero costumes. This is a great way for them to think about how they can illustrate specific details about their hero’s actions that they’ve already included in their narrative. Then, publish their work into a very heroic classbook.

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Writing prompt #3: what would a typical day be like if you were 9 feet tall what would you do.

When writing about what would happen when you’re nine-feet tall, there’s a good chance some conflict is going to emerge like not being able to fit through doors or into your normal clothes.

This 3rd grade narrative writing prompt helps students put their feet in another person’s shoes and think about how conflict and resolution plays a part in narrative storytelling. Before your students dive into this narrative prompt, take the time to help them understand what a conflict is and why it’s important to telling a story . Then have them sit down and think about the questions below:

• What is the central conflict in your story? What happens that goes wrong?
• How is this conflict resolved? What happens to fix the thing that goes wrong?
• What events or scenes happen in your story that show this conflict and resolution?
• Is the ending to your story happy or sad? Or both?

Giving your students this 3rd grade narrative writing prompt to help them understand and learn an important skill in narrative storytelling that will translate and stay with them as they grow as writers.

Have your students illustrate what a day in the life of a 9-foot tall version of themselves would look like. Take a blank piece of paper and divide it into separate panels. Then have them draw out the scenes of their narrative, this will help them write their story and give them a picture to go with their narrative. This project idea is a great way to help your students visualize the conflict and scenes they created and show them another way that storytelling is possible. Gather all your student’s writing and illustrations and create a classbook to showcase your students’ work!

Writing Prompt #4: Imagine that you are the main character from your favorite book. Who would you be? Write about the adventures you would have.

By having your students imagine that they are the main character from their favorite book, they’re encouraged to use their creativity and storytelling skills in a narrative that they feel connected to and familiar with. This prompt is also a great way to allow your students to employ some descriptive adjectives . Descriptive words and details are what makes any story enjoyable and engaging to read. By using the assignment requirements below as a guide, your students can practice making their writing more descriptive and detail-oriented.

Assignment requirements:

• Use descriptive vocabulary (describe what the character looks like, how they are feeling, what they are doing, etc). Use this worksheet to provide unique verbs and adjectives to your students.
• Build a setting for your character, either using the book, your own imagination, or both.
• Include details from the book, but don’t be afraid to come up with your own original adventures as well!

Have students close their eyes and visualize themselves as the main character of their favorite book. After they open their eyes, have them write down what they saw. This will help them develop their story beyond just changing the name of the main character in their favorite book. After the writing is complete, your students can draw the cover of their new book and pair that with their writing to contribute to your class’ collection of reimagined stories! If you want to get a little more writing practice in, you can have them rewrite the book jacket or description of the book as well! Then collect all the book covers and jackets to create a classbook!

Writing Prompt #5: Write about a time you were lost or thought you were lost. What happened? How did you figure out where you were?

When writing a cohesive and organized story, it’s important to think about things like the sequence of events and transitions. This writing prompt encourages your students to think about the order of the events that they are writing about and how they can organize them in a logical and engaging way.

First, have your students take a trip down memory lane and think about a time they were lost or thought they might be lost. It is a good idea to create a mind map at this stage of the writing process. Have your students think of words and phrases that they associate with this event in their life of getting lost. And if they can’t come up with a time they’ve gotten lost, encourage them to think of a time that someone else got lost or create an imaginary event.

A mind map can help students remember details like setting, how they were feeling, and what exactly happened better through word association.

Armed with their memories, students can then begin to write out the sequence of events that happened. It might be helpful for students to make a list of events in the order they happened, and then go back to flesh out their list into a more formal narrative. Your students have already created a map of their experience with words, now let them create a visual map! Start by showing your students examples of maps from amusement parks or zoos so they can see how you can incorporate images and text to create a map to guide them through the time when they got lost. Collect these maps put your students’ hard work into a published classbook when they’re finished!

Writing Prompt #6: If you could be any person in history, who would you be? Imagine what a day in the life of that person would be like and describe what you would do.

Storytelling isn’t always just about creativity and imagination, although those are two very important parts of narrative writing. A lot of narrative writing involves research in one form or another. Having your students consider a person in history that they would like to be in their shoes for a day is a great way to encourage research and bridge the gap between academic research and creative writing.

First have your students choose the person in history they want to spend some time with. Then encourage them to look up facts about this person, what they were like, why they were famous, what they did, where they lived, the time period they lived in, etc. Sources such as textbooks and scholastic databases might be helpful in giving your students the information they need.

Once your students have a well-rounded idea of who this person is, they can start to get creative. Encourage them to take risks and stray from the narrative of this person’s life and think about what they would do if they were that person. All the while, ensure that your students are using the basic techniques of narrative writing such as descriptive language, setting, scene building and organization.

A fun project idea that you can do with your students after they complete this narrative writing prompt is to put together a biography of their chosen historical figure. First, have them gather their research, including any photographs and facts, and outline a short biography for their chosen person. Once they’re finished, then have them create a second biography using the information in their outline that showcases what this person’s life would look like if the student were living it. This project gives students a chance to reflect on their research, incorporate their narrative prompt, and is a great way to create an informative and fun classbook to share with everyone!

Narrative writing is a vital skill for students to learn and one that will stick with them throughout their academic career and beyond. It’s an opportunity for students to understand what makes a story great and how to tell one themselves. It also allows for the merging of creativity and research. All of these prompts and projects are great opportunities to create a classbook to showcase your students’ work and preserve their stories!

Additional resources:

Our online teacher’s lounge is an excellent place for you to find more suggestions on ways to improve your students’ writing. Head over to sign up and receive a free classbook publishing kit to make a special memory for your class.

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Grade 3 Writing Prompts

25 great grade 3 writing prompts.

These Grade 3 writing prompts will transform your child into a budding young author! Keep scrolling for the following categories:

• Sentence starters

Descriptive Writing

Journal prompts, personal narrative writing, general prompts, sentence starters.

• If I was in charge of the world…
• If I could make the rules in my house…
• School is interesting because…
• If I could be friends with a celebrity we would…
• If all the trees were made of candy…
• Invent a new game. Describe how you play it?
• Describe a goal you have for yourself.
• Describe your perfect pet.
• Describe your dream job.
• If you had all the money in the world, describe what you would do.
• If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
• What makes you most happy?
• If someone was to describe your personality, what would they say?
• What is your proudest accomplishment?
• How do you show others you care about them?
• Have you ever been hurt? What happened?
• Write about a time when you felt you worked really hard.
• Think about a time when you were sick. What did you do to get better?
• Describe your favorite memory from when you were little.
• Do you have a favorite holiday memory? Describe it.
• If you could bring home any wild animal, what would it be?
• What do you like to do in your free time?
• If you and a friend were laughing, what would it be about?
• Go for a walk outside. Using your five senses, what did you experience?
• What would happen if you were trapped in a store overnight?

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70+ Dynamic 3rd Grade Writing Prompts

• DESCRIPTION third grade classroom writing prompt
• SOURCE skynesher / E+ / Getty
• PERMISSION Used under Getty Images license

By 3rd grade, some kids love to write — and others dread it more than anything. But no matter how they feel about writing, 3rd grade is an important year for students to expand their writing skills. That's why you need interesting and versatile writing prompts for your aspiring authors and for your reluctant readers. Keep reading for 3rd grade writing prompts for journaling, finishing the story and building Common Core writing skills.

3rd Grade Writing Prompts: Finish the Story

Sometimes starting the story is the hardest part. Along with traditional narrative writing prompts, these 3rd grade story starters give kids a headstart with storytelling. Have them write these down and then take the story where their imagination leads.

• This morning I woke up and my hands had turned into paws! First, I …
• Everything was going well until all the pencils in the school disappeared.
• When I opened the magical music box from my grandmother, I was amazed to find …
• The old woman opened the door and saw a tiny kitten on her doorstep. There was only one problem ...
• Today I took my dad's job at work. The first thing I did was …
• I woke up from my dream about fishing and discovered that I was next to a lake …
• Brett knew that this zoo was different. But what he didn't know was ...
• There's only person who knows where the missing jewel is. He is ...
• Everyone loves my new invention because …
• No one believes that the new student is from the year 1900. I believe her though, because …
• When I arrived on the planet where scientists discovered life on it, I never expected …
• The best part about living in a submarine is ...

Finish The Story Printable Writing Prompt Worksheet

If your students don't like copying the prompt down, or if you're working with English learners, they may prefer a third grade writing prompts worksheet to write their ideas. Take a look at this printable that is perfect for 3rd grade writers who need a little boost.

"What If" Prompts for 3rd Graders

3rd graders love imagining what they'd do in crazy situations! You can really get them writing by sparking some fantastic ideas. These "what if" writing prompts are super fun and kid-focused for 3rd graders.

• What if you lived at school?
• What if you woke up one day and could no longer see the color blue?
• What if you lived in the water?
• What if cats could drive?
• What if your teacher gave everyone candy for answering questions?
• What if your parents had never met?
• What if you met your favorite book character in real life?
• What if you could only have one type of food for the rest of your life?
• What if you could do one thing so well it made you famous?
• What if computers had never been invented?
• What if you won a million dollars?
• What if you could go on vacation anywhere in the world?

3rd Grade Journal Writing Prompts

Daily or weekly journal writing is a great way to get kids in the habit of thinking like writers. Take a look at these fun 3rd grade writing prompts that are perfect for a class journal.

• What is the most exciting thing that has happened to you?
• How did you meet your best friend?
• Does someone look up to you? Why?
• How are you different than you were last year?
• Does someone you know make a special food? Why is it special?
• What smell reminds you of your favorite place?
• What has been the most surprising part of 3rd grade?
• How has reading improved your life?
• How are you different from your family?
• Would you rather be outside or inside? Why?
• What was the last thing you made?
• What's your favorite sport? When did you first start watching it?

Opinion Writing Prompts for 3rd Grade

Opinion writing is part of the Common Core Standards for 3rd graders . You can help them master both persuasive and argumentative writing with subjects and questions they'll be passionate about.

• Should kids go to school until 5:00 in the evening?
• Should everyone wear shoes in school? Why or why not?
• Do you think the president or prime minister is doing a good job?
• What would you do if you were in charge of the school?
• What is the best restaurant in your town? Why?
• Do you like milk, water, juice, or soda better? How come?
• Who makes the best cookies in the world? Why are they so good?
• How should people take care of the Earth?
• What kind of animal makes a great pet?
• What makes someone a good friend?
• Should 12-year-olds be allowed to drive?

3rd Grade Informational Writing Prompts

Another part of the Common Core for this age group is informational writing. While that may sound like a chore to some 3rd graders, it's a great way for them to share what they know with topics that interest them.

• What was the last thing you made? How did you make it?
• What do you know about life in the 1980s?
• How do you get home from school? What do you see on the way?
• What does someone need to eat to be healthy?
• How do you check out a library book?
• Explain how to use a specific item in your house.
• Think of someone you admire from history. Talk about that person's life.
• Pick a pet. How do you take care of it?
• What do you know about the history of your family?
• Look up dinosaurs in the library. Describe one kind of dinosaur.
• What do you know about the history of your school?
• How do you study for a test?

3rd Grade Narrative Writing Prompts

Also a Common Core standard for 3rd graders, narrative writing introduces kids to the structure of story and the importance of details that engage the reader. These narrative writing prompts inspire kids to tell a truly excellent tale or two.

• Imagine your parents invite an alien to dinner. What happens at the table?
• Do you remember your very first day of school ever? Describe what happened.
• Imagine you find a time machine. What do you do?
• How did you learn to tie your shoes?
• What does your pet do all day when you're at school?
• Write a story about two talking pigs.
• What happened on your last family trip or vacation?
• Think about the last time you got hurt. How did it happen?
• Imagine a princess who fights a dragon. How does she win?
• Write a story about someone who is lost.
• What is your earliest memory?
• Write about the last time someone was kind to you.

Poetry Prompts for 3rd Graders

Third graders learn about creative writing and are exposed to all types of literature, including poetry. Creative writing for 9-year-olds is all about fun. You can help reinforce the concepts they learn in language arts with hands-on writing experience. These poetry writing prompts will inspire them.

• Write a poem about the last time you were really cold.
• How does it feel to get a hug?
• Write a poem about a secret.
• Imagine a balloon. When was the last time you felt like a balloon?
• Write a poem about the sound leaves make in the wind.
• Write a poem where each line starts with a letter from your name.
• Describe a wonderful sound using lots of imagery.
• Write a love poem to someone in your family.
• Think of a feeling like sad, happy, mad, or excited. What color goes with that feeling? Turn it into a poem.
• Have you ever lost a person or pet you really cared about? Write it in a poem.
• How does it feel to be extremely tired? Use the words "like" and "as."
• What does your favorite person's voice sound like?

Writing Can Be Fun

Third grade is an incredibly important year in language arts. It can determine whether students have the foundational skills to expand their writing. With the right prompts, kids can have fun while they're building and expanding foundational skills. Check out these 3rd grade grammar worksheets for more language arts practice. You can also reinforce capitalization skills with these 3rd grade printables .

Engaging Writing Prompts for 3rd Graders

Students in 3rd grade should be writing regularly in a variety of styles and for a variety of audiences. Useful writing projects for 3rd graders include  opinion , informative, and narrative essays, as well as short research projects.

For many students, the most difficult part of writing is facing the blank page. The following grade-level appropriate writing prompts provide plenty of inspiration to help your students get started on a number of different writing assignments.

Narrative Essay Writing Prompts

Narrative essays tell a story based on real or imagined events. Students should use descriptive writing and dialogue to tell their tale.

• Scary Stuff. Think of something that scares you and explain what makes it so frightening.
• Grouchy Pants. Describe a day when you were grouchy. What made you so grumpy and how did you get in a better mood?
• School Rules. If you could make a new school rule, what would it be? How would your rule change an average day at school?
• Snappy Travel. Imagine you could snap your fingers and be anywhere else in the world. Write about where you’d go.
• Family Tales. What is the most interesting story that a family member has ever told you about their life?
• Food Forever. If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would you choose?
• Book Bound. If you could be the main character from your favorite book, who would you be? Write about an adventure you might have.
• Seeing Double. Imagine that you have an identical twin who is a different class than you. What pranks would you play on your teachers and classmates?
• Nessy's Life. Have you heard of the Loch Ness Monster ? Imagine you’re the monster. Describe your life under the sea.
• Lost. Have you ever been lost? Write about your experience.
• Perfect Party. Describe what the ultimate birthday party would look like if you could do anything you wanted.
• Kindness Counts. You’re given $100 to do random acts of kindness for others. What do you do?
• Memory Eraser . Describe something that happened to you that you wish you could forget. Explain why.

Opinion Essay Writing Prompts

When writing an opinion essay , students should clearly state their opinion, then back it up with sound reasons and facts. Opinion essays should close the essay with a concluding paragraph and a summary of the argument. 

• Be a Friend. What does it mean to be a good friend?
• Growing Up or Down. Would you rather be older than you are right now or younger? Why?
• Hello? Some kids in 3rd grade have cell phones. Do you? Do you think that’s good or bad?
• Best Pets. Which animal makes the best pet? Give at least three reasons for your opinion.
• Tattletale. If you saw one of your friends doing something that you knew was wrong, should you tell on them? Why or why not?
• School Favorites . What do you think is the best subject in school? What makes it the best?
• Off Limits . Is there a TV show that you’re not allowed to watch or a video game that you’re not allowed to play? Explain why your parents should allow it.
• Summer School. Should your school be in session year ‘round with more breaks throughout the year or continue to give students the summer off? Why?
• Junk Food Fans. Should candy and soda machines be available to students on school property? Why or why not?
• School Supplies. What is the most important tool in your classroom? What makes it so useful?
• School Pride . What is the best thing about being a student at your school?
• What’s in a Name? If you could change your name, what would you choose and why?

Informative Essay Writing Prompts

Informative essays introduce a topic, explain a process, or describe an idea, then provide facts, definitions, and details. Students should organize related information into paragraphs in order to write the most logical essay possible. Remember that they should also include introductory and concluding paragraphs.

• Real Superheroes. Superheroes in movies and comics can do some pretty amazing things, but think of someone you consider to be a real-life hero. What do (or did) they do that makes them a hero? 
• Liar, Liar. Someone told your best friend a lie about you and your friend believed them. Explain how you’d handle the situation.
• Student Teacher. Think of something that you found difficult to do at first (such as multiplication or tying your shoes), but that you now understand. Explain the process so that someone else could learn to do it.
• Holidays . What is your favorite holiday? Explain how you celebrate it.
• Pet Sitter. Your family is going on vacation and a pet-sitter is coming to care for your pets. Write a note explaining how to care for them.
• PB&J. Write out the step-by-step process for making the perfect peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
• Chores. What is a household chore for which you are responsible? Explain how to do it.
• Emergency Drills. Think of one emergency drill that your school practices. Write a paper describing exactly how to do it as if you were explaining it to a brand-new student.
• Allergies. Do you have a serious allergy to something like peanuts or milk? Write an essay explaining why it’s so important for you not to come into contact with the allergen.
• Color Wheel. What is your favorite color? Choose an animal or object that is that color and describe it.
• State Fun Facts . Describe some interesting facts about your state to someone who has never visited.
• Family Traditions. Describe a unique family tradition that your family has.
• Game On.  What's your favorite game? Explain the rules to someone who has never played it before.

Research Writing Prompts

Students in 3rd grade can conduct simple research projects that build on their knowledge about a topic. They should use digital and print media to explore the topic , take simple notes, and create a basic outline before beginning the writing process.

• State History. What is the history of your state? Research the history and write an essay about one key event in your state's past.
• Marsupials. Marsupials are animals who carry their babies in pouches. With the exception of the opossum, all marsupials live in Australia. Choose one of them to learn more about.
• Insects. They may be small, but insects play an important role in our environment. Choose an insect to research and write an essay about its characteristics.
• Jaws! Are Great White sharks really man-eaters? Research this question and write an essay about your answer. 
• Bat Signal. How do bats use echolocation?
• Explorers. Choose a famous (or not-so-famous) explorer to research.
• Comic Book Heroes. When was the first comic book published and what was it about?
• Extreme Weather. Choose an extreme weather event such as a tornado, hurricane, or tsunami, and explain its cause.
• International Space Station. Learn more about the International Space Station: how it's used, who visits it, and why it's important. Write an essay about your findings.
• Ben Franklin, Inventor . Many people know Benjamin Franklin as a Founding Father and statesman, but he was also an inventor. Learn about some of the things he invented.
• Legends.  Research a popular legend such as the Lost City of Atlantis, Big Foot, or Paul Bunyan . Write an essay describing the evidence for or against the legend.
• Presidential History. Research the childhood of one American president and write an essay about what you learn.
• Fun March Writing Prompts for Journaling
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Third Grade: Writing Sample 3

Context of writing.

Written by a third grade boy in a Writer’s Workshop style class where students had free choice of writing topics.

What is this child able to do as a writer?

• Generates an interesting idea for a story.
• Uses descriptive language (‘relaxing at my dad’s house’).
• Writes a story that flows sequentially from beginning to end.
• Uses punctuation correctly — periods at the end of sentences and an exclamation point to show excitement.
• Uses an apostrophe to show ownership (‘my dad’s house’).

Title: The Shark Who Ate My Head Off

One day I was relaxing at my dad’s house and I starting to get bored. So I went into the pool. I was swimming for a 1/2 hour and then something bit my foot. It was a shark! I tried to escape but the shark pulled me back in and ate my head off. THE END!

What does this child need to learn next?

Although this story has a beginning, middle and end, it ends rather abruptly. This writer is a reluctant writer who just wanted his story to end. The writer should be encouraged to add more details to the middle of his story and make a longer, more drawn out ending. A popular reading comprehension strategy is to have students write alternate endings to books they have read.

Since he has already made it unrealistic with a shark in his dad’s swimming pool, the teacher could challenge him to make several endings, each one more amazing and creative than the last. The class could then get involved by voting on which ending they like most. Here’s an example of an assignment in which students are asked to write an alternate ending to Lemony Snicket .

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Third Grade Creative Writing Worksheets

• The Parts of a Letter
• Write Your Own Mad Libs ®
• Writing a Descriptive Paragraph (Gr. 3)
• Fill-in Story: The Halloween Party
• Fill-in Halloween Story: A Scary Night
• Fill-in Story: Halloween Carnival
• Writing a Personal Narrative (Gr. 3)
• My Friend Writing Printable
• Student Proofreading Checklist
• Creative Writing with Photo Inspiration
• Same Name Word Puzzle
• Life in the Sea
• Bio Poem Handout
• Writing a Research Report (Gr. 3)
• Favorite Foods
• Script Writing Handout
• Make Your Own Holiday
• A Note About Witches: Fill-in-the-Blanks
• Antonyms and Synonyms
• Immigration Picture Prompts
• Post Card Template
• My New Year's Resolutions (3-6)
• Discovering Pronouns 10
• Discovering Punctuation 2
• Discovering Capitalization 4
• Discovering Punctuation 9
• If I Were the Teacher
• Writing Activity: Describe the Rain Scene
• Change the Dialog in a Comic Strip
• Discovering Conjunctions
• More Creative Writing Printables, 3rd Grade

Featured 3th Grade Resources

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30 Fun And Creative Writing Prompts For 3rd Grade

Writing prompts can be incredibly beneficial for third-grade students as they not only stimulate their imaginations but also enhance their critical thinking and writing skills. By presenting them with different scenarios, characters, and situations, writing prompts encourage children to delve deep into their creativity and explore various narrative possibilities.

As a teacher, the key to activating third-grade students’ imaginations is to give them fun writing prompts to get them excited about writing. Below you’ll find 30 fun and creative writing prompts for 3rd-grade students that are guaranteed to spark your students’ imaginations and get their creative juices flowing.

Writing Prompts For Third Grade

• Imagine you wake up one morning to find out you’ve become a superhero. What are your powers and how would you use them?
• Write a story about a magical tree that grows in your backyard. What is special about it?
• What would you do if you could fly for a day? Describe your journey in detail.
• If animals could talk, what would your pet or a favorite animal say? Write a conversation you might have.
• Imagine that you have been given the task of redesigning your school. What changes would you make and why?
• Write a story about a character who lives in a world where colors have been lost. How do they restore colors back to their world?
• Write a letter to your future self. What advice would you give?
• Imagine that you found a door in your house that you’ve never seen before. Where does it lead to?
• Write about a day in the life of your favorite dessert. Make it as fun and wacky as possible.
• Write a story from the perspective of a raindrop on a rainy day.
• You have been given a magical pen that makes everything you draw come to life. What do you draw first and why?
• Imagine you are an astronaut exploring a new planet. Describe what you see, hear, and feel.
• If you could be any mythical creature for a day, what would you be and why? Describe your day.
• Write a story about a mischievous ghost who lives in your school.
• You’re a detective and you’ve been assigned to solve the case of the missing cookies. Who are your suspects?
• Your favorite toy comes to life! What adventures do you two have together?
• What if you woke up one day and everything was upside down? Write about your day.
• Write a story about a magical flower that only blooms once every hundred years. What happens when it blooms?
• If you had a pet dragon, what would a day in your life look like?
• Write a story about an adventure in a submarine deep under the sea. What creatures do you see?
• Imagine you could swap places with your teacher for a day. What would you do?
• Your shoes suddenly gain the ability to talk. What stories do they tell you about where they’ve been?
• Write a diary entry for a pirate sailing the seven seas in search of treasure.
• If you could invent a new holiday, what would it be, and how would people celebrate it?
• You find a magic pebble that grants you three wishes. What do you wish for and why?
• Write a story about a visit to a planet made of candy.
• What would it be like if animals were in charge and humans were pets?
• Write about a day in the life of a coin. Where does it go? What does it see?
• You have been chosen to host a party for all the fairytale characters. How would you plan and organize it?
• Imagine you could breathe underwater. Write about your adventures under the sea.

Tips For Using These Writing Prompts In Class

As a third-grade teacher, you are likely aware that merely providing students with a writing prompt may not yield the most effective outcomes. To help students fully tap into their creative writing abilities, consider these actionable strategies.

Offer Clear Instructions

Make sure to explain the prompt clearly and in a way that your students understand. If the prompt is complex, break it down into smaller parts. Ensure they understand the task at hand before they start writing.

Create a Safe Environment

Encourage creativity and originality. Let your students know that it’s okay to make mistakes and they should not be afraid of expressing their unique ideas.

Provide Examples

Sometimes, students may find it challenging to start. Providing an example or two can help them understand the prompt better and stimulate their own ideas.

Use Prompts as Conversation Starters

Discuss the writing prompts in class before students start writing. This will help stimulate ideas, and hearing their peers’ thoughts can inspire students who may be having difficulty.

Use Visual Aids

For younger students, visual aids can be really helpful. Draw a picture, show a video or use storyboards to help illustrate the prompt and get their creative juices flowing.

Allow Choices

If possible, offer more than one writing prompt at a time. Giving students the ability to choose their writing topic can make the task more engaging and personal for them.

Encourage Peer Reviews

After students have written their pieces, encourage them to exchange their stories with their classmates for peer review. This can help students learn from each other and also improve their editing and critiquing skills.

Provide Constructive Feedback

Giving feedback is crucial. Praise students for their efforts and provide constructive criticism to guide them on how to improve their writing.

Include Prompts Related to Current Lessons

While creative prompts are excellent, try to include some prompts that relate to what students are learning. For example, if they’re learning about animals’ habitats, include a prompt about it.

Schedule Regular Writing Time

Make writing a regular activity. Consistency can help students get into the habit of writing and improve their skills over time.

More Writing Prompts

Thanks for reading! I hope your students have lots of fun creating awesome stories using these writing prompts. Before you go, check out these related articles for writing prompt ideas: 1st Grade Writing Prompts 4th Grade Writing Prompts Adventure Writing Prompts Fantasy Writing Prompts

Home » Blog » Writing » 68+ Imaginative and fun 3rd-grade writing prompts

68+ Imaginative and fun 3rd-grade writing prompts

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The 3rd-grade writing prompts are designed to help children tap into their imagination. It can also be used to help them express their feelings.

The best way to use the 3rd-grade writing prompts is to ask them to write their thoughts in a journal notebook.

Journaling can be an excellent activity for children to reflect on their emotions.

Parents can also use the writing topics for 3rd graders to help them understand their child is thinking.

3rd-Grade narrative Writing Prompts

You can use the following narrative writing prompts to help your students write a short story:

• Write a story based on the theme of growing up.
• Write a story about your favorite food.
• Write a story about a place you’ve never been to before but would like to visit someday.
• Write a story about how you feel when you’re in class during exams or tests, especially if you’re nervous or stressed out by it!
• What is your favorite toy?
• Who is your best friend?
• What is one thing you would like to change about yourself?
• In what kind of mood are you right now?
• Who do you spend time with the most?
• Write a narrative about what you did on your last day of school.
• Describe your family and friends and how they influence your life.
• Tell a story about something that happened recently in your life—tell it from the point of view of someone else.
• Write a letter to someone who has moved away from your area, explaining why they should move back if they left and why they shouldn’t if they stayed behind.
• Ever wonder what it would be like to be a fish? A bird? A dog? Or maybe even a human? Human is the hardest because we have so many different sides to us. Some people are shy and quiet, while others are outgoing and talkative. Some people like to play video games all day long and never get out of their pajamas.
• It would be cool to be a fish because they don’t have any worries. They just swim around in the water and eat whatever they want. I think that’s pretty cool!
• It would be cool to be a bird because they can fly! Birds don’t need any houses or cars; they just fly around and eat bugs from trees. What’s not to love about that? I’d love to be a bird!
• It would be cool to be a dog because they can run all day long without getting tired or breaking anything! Dogs can also talk with other dogs and play fetch with balls or sticks whenever they want. 

Journal Writing Prompts for 3rd Grade.

• Write a journal entry about what you did over the weekend.
• Write a journal entry about how you were feeling on Monday.
• Write a journal entry about how you’re feeling right now.
• Write about something that happened at school today or in your neighborhood.

The Third Grade is a year of change and growth. We are learning about ourselves, as well as the world around us. Here are some journal writing prompts for a third grader:

• What is your favorite subject at school? Why?
• What is your least favorite subject at school? Why?
• Have you ever been to a museum? If so, which one and why do you like it there? If not, why would you like to go to a museum?
• Have you ever done something against the law or hurt someone else’s feelings in any way? If so, how did it make you feel afterward?
• Write about the school year so far and how you feel about it.
• Write about an event at school or your child’s activity at home.
• Write a letter to Santa Claus, if you want!
• Write about your favorite vacation spot and how you would like to go there again.
• What is the one thing that you want to learn this year?
• What is your favorite book and why?
• How do you feel about being a third grader?

Short Writing prompts for 3rd Graders

• What are the most important things to know as a 3rd grader?
• What do you want to be when you grow up?
• What’s your favorite subject in school?
• How many brothers and sisters do you have?
• What’s your favorite food?
• Can you play any sports?
• What did you do on your summer vacation?
• If you were a superhero, what kind of superpower would you have?
• How do you feel about wearing masks?
• What’s your favorite color?
• Who is your favorite character from the comic book “The Avengers”?
• What’s the best part of your day?
• Many different animals worldwide, including dogs, cats, and even snakes. Some of these animals are very friendly, and others are not so much.
• Some people think animals should be killed because they hurt people or other animals. But others believe that animals should be protected by law. Some people think it is okay to kill some of these animals but not all of them because some might be important for food or other things we need in life.

Inspiring 3rd-grade Writing Prompts

• Write a story about how you became an inspiration to others.
• Write a poem about the things that inspire you.
• Write an essay about how your life changed because of some great person or event in your past.
• Write about a time when you were in a difficult situation, and you were able to overcome it.
• Write about a person who inspires you and why.
• Write about a life lesson that helped you become who you are today.
• I am a writer.
• Writing is my passion, my lifeblood, and my purpose.
• I write because I love to write, and I write because it’s the best way for me to tell stories that matter.
• Writing is an art form, but it’s also just a tool with which I can help people understand themselves and their place in the world around them.
• When I’m writing, everything else falls away—the world around me disappears, even if only temporarily; there are no distractions or interruptions; all that matters is what I’m creating and how it can help someone else feel better about themselves or their place in the world we share together as human beings.
• Write about a time when you felt inspired.
• Write about a time when someone inspired you.
• Write about a time when you were feeling down and how someone helped bring you back up again.
• Write about the best advice you’ve ever received from someone else.
• Write about something that has positively impacted your life but that you haven’t realized at the time what it means for you until later on in life—and then write about how it changed everything for the better!
• You’ve been working on your new novel for months and are finally ready to share it with the world.
• Your friend is moving away, and you’re suddenly feeling a lot of emotion about losing your friendship.
• You’ve just finished watching the movie version of your favorite book, and you can’t wait to reread the book!

‘What If’ Questions for 3rd Graders 

• What if I went to the bathroom and didn’t lock the door?
• What if my parents found me at a friend’s house and I didn’t tell them where I was?
• What if I got caught playing hooky from school?
• What if a tree fell in the forest and no one was there to hear it?
• What if someone went to the store and forgot their money?
• What if I turn off my computer and nothing happens?
• What if there were no water?
• What if the sky was red?
• What if we didn’t have to eat?

Descriptive 3rd-grade Writing Prompts 

• I love my family. I am an only child, and my parents have always been there for me. They do not have children and dream of having a large family. They are so happy because they now have five grandchildren. 
• The holidays are hectic for our family. We go out to eat at Christmas, play games together, go to church and sing carols, watch movies together, and then host a big dinner party at home.
• My mother cooks delicious meals for everyone who comes over. One day she made lasagna with cheese sauce and pesto pasta with mushrooms. It was so good! She also made French toast for breakfast one morning in morning. 
• My father is convenient around the house fixing things or doing repairs on anything that needs fixing or repairing around our house, like broken windows or doors that don’t open anymore because they’re not locking properly anymore because someone had forgotten to close them when they left the house leaving us open to intruders coming in through those.

3rd-Grade Writing Prompts With Passages

• The story was about a boy named Jack who lived in a small town with his mom, dad, and little sister. One day he decided to go on an adventure outside their house and into the woods. He had no idea what kind of adventure it would be but knew something interesting would happen to him as soon as he stepped out of his house.
• The first thing that happened was he ran into an old man who said “hi” and asked Jack if he wanted to play with him. Jack said yes, so they played for a while before returning home.
• The next day Jack woke up early and went outside to get ready for school, which was only 12 miles away from his house. He took his book bag with him when he left because there was still plenty of time before school started; so many things could happen between now and then!

Writing topics for 3rd graders:

Here is some fun 3rd-grade writing prompts.

• What is your favorite quote of the day
• If I was a teacher, I would teach…
• If I could become a parent for one day, I would…..
• What would you wish for if you could have anything for your birthday?
• If a puppy could talk to you, what would it say?
• If you can go anywhere in the world, where will you go?
• If you could be a superhero, what would your superpowers be?
• If you are the president of your country, how will you run the country?
• What is your favorite holiday season?
• Write down the things that make you sad. What can you do to not let those things make you sad?
• What is your favorite Halloween character?
• What will you dream about if you can have one dream that will come true?
• Write a thank you letter to your parents.
• What is your favorite movie? What do you like about the movie?
• Change the ending of the Cinderella story.
• If you can fly, where will you go?
• What is your dream holiday?
• What new skills would you like to learn?
• What would you like to learn if you can be great at one musical instrument?
• What is your favorite subject in school? Why do you like this subject?
• Write a story of getting lost with your best friend.
• Who is your best friend? What do you like about your best friend?
• Write a story about your family.
• Write a story about a cat who couldn’t find her home.
• If flowers and trees can talk, what will they say?
• Who do you think has the best job in the world?
• If you can meet one famous person, who would you like to meet?
• Who do you admire the most in your home?
• If you are in charge of managing a zoo for one day, which animal would you like to manage?
• If you have one animal you can keep at home as a pet, what animal would you like to keep?
• What do you think is the hardest job of being a snail?
• What do you do when you are feeling down?
• What are the best ways you like to relax?

• Who are the people that will cheer you up when you are feeling down? Can you write a thank you letter to them?
• If you can spend the weekend building something, what would you like to build?
• What is your favorite Disney movie? Why do you like this movie? Do you think the main character is a hero?
• Write a story about the best weekend you had with friends or family.
• What is the hardest thing you have ever had to do?
• What is your favorite sport? Why do you like that sport?
• List things that you can’t do YET. What can you do to be better at them?
• Do you think aliens exist?
• If you can be an astronaut, which planet would you like to visit?
• What is the best thing about being a child?
• What is your favorite nursery rhyme?
• What do you think is the job of a school principal?
• Make a list of household chores you should do at home
• Make a list of unhealthy things you should stop doing.
• If you can only take 3 people with you to go to Disneyland, who would you take with you?
• Write down 10 things you like about yourself.
• If you are a magician, what magic tricks would you do?
• Describe yourself in 50 words.
• Finish the sentence: Today I woke up and……….
• Write about a joke you recently heard.

Growth Mindset Questions For Kids : 

• What present would you like to get for Christmas?

Imaginative 3rd-grade writing prompts:

• What would happen if Santa rode a dragon instead of a Reindeer in his sleigh?
• Write about your favorite book.
• You found a secret door in your home. Where do you think it leads when you open it?
• You found a treasure in your back garden. What was the treasure?
• You woke up one morning to find out that you were the last person on earth. What happens next?
• You found a mermaid in a lake near your house. What did the mermaid say to you?
• Imagine being a lead singer in a music band. What kind of music will you sing? How many people are in your band? What is the name of your band? What is the title of your song?
• How do you think you would be living if there was no electricity?
• Use your imagination and create your store. What will you sell? What is the name of the store? Where will the store be located?
• If you can open your restaurant, what food will you serve? What will you name the restaurant? How will you decorate the restaurant?

We hope you have enjoyed the writing topics for 3rd graders. Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family.

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Parven founded Kids N Clicks after obtaining her MSc in Corporate Governance from the London School of Economics. She worked as a business studies and digital marketing lecturer. Internet Matters recognizes her profound knowledge of online safety, dubbing her an Internet safety expert. At Kids N Clicks, Parven keeps abreast of the newest apps. Drawing from her teaching background, she fervently promotes screen-free activities for students and encourages introspective thinking through journaling, games and writing prompts.

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How do I use writing topics in my classroom?

Do you want to inspire your students to write great narratives, essays, and reports? Check out these grade-specific writing topics organized by mode (explanatory, creative, and so on). Or search for writing topics that relate to a theme, such as “life” or “animals” or “family.”

Jump to . . .

Explanatory writing.

• A day in the rainforest
• After-school games
• An important person I know about
• At the library
• Foods I don't like
• Friendly places
• Games I play with friends
• Games we play at recess
• Good things in my neighborhood
• How plants grow
• How to make my favorite dessert
• How to make new friends
• I like spring because . . .
• I like to make . . .
• I'd like to see . . .
• Insects, insects everywhere
• Learning to ride a bike
• My favorite food
• My favorite pet
• My favorite season
• My mom's/dad's hobby
• My new friend
• My shopping list
• Our clubhouse
• The biggest bubble-gum bubble
• The funniest zoo animal
• This person makes me laugh
• What I know about . . .
• What I know about an animal
• What I know about dinosaurs
• What I know about stars
• What I know about the ocean
• What I like about math
• What makes me laugh?
• What will I share?
• Who I will be in the future
• Who's at the zoo?
• Why I like to read
• Why I love to sing
• Words I think are funny

Persuasive Writing

• Don't litter!
• Things that would make my neighborhood better

Narrative Writing

• A day at the beach
• A special birthday
• Buying something with my own money
• Cooking dinner with Mom/Dad
• Eating lunch with my friends
• Going grocery shopping
• Going to the circus
• I rode on a . . .
• I'm happy when . . .
• Losing my teeth
• My adventure
• My trip to . . .
• Noisy times and quiet times
• Playing a game with Grandma/Grandpa
• Playing with pets
• Something funny that happened to me
• The biggest thing I ever saw
• The last time I cried
• When _ was born

Response to Literature

• A book I just read
• Some of my favorite books

Creative Writing

• A story about a holiday
• A trip on a rocket ship
• Dear George Washington
• Seeing the world through the eyes of . . .
• Sometimes I wish . . .
• What if I met a . . .
• What if I were 10 years old?
• What if I were someone else?
• What if toys could talk?
• What's under my bed?

Research Writing

• I wonder why . . .
• Something I don't understand
• A bicycle I'd like to have
• A day in the desert
• A great place to go
• A great treehouse
• A place I like to visit
• A sport I'm good at
• A trip on a monorail
• Activities for indoor fun
• Activities for outdoor fun
• Amazing facts I know
• An amazing animal
• Dancing to the music
• Having fun at school
• Helping out around the house
• Magic tricks I can do
• Making my favorite food
• My favorite baby-sitter
• My favorite board game
• My favorite teacher
• My homework place
• Our classroom pet
• Some things I like about the museum
• The best house pets
• The weirdest house pets
• Things that are hard to believe
• Things to do in the snow
• Unusual fruits and vegetables
• Water balloons!
• What I like about where I live
• What makes me special
• Who is beautiful?
• Let's help the environment by . . .
• Things I'd like to change
• A cozy spot at home
• A funny time in my family
• A great day with a friend
• A helpful person I have met
• A person who means the world to me
• A walk in the woods
• Funny things my pet has done
• My best birthday
• My favorite family story
• Putting on a play
• Swimming at the pool or lake
• When everything goes wrong
• Book characters I'd like to meet
• A dark hallway
• Donuts for dinner
• Something I wish would happen
• What if there were no electricity
• All about an amazing animal

Business Writing

• A cartoon character that I like
• A song that means a lot to me
• A special photograph
• A special, secret place
• A trip in a submarine
• An important time in history
• Building a fort
• Creatures that live in the ocean
• Creepy, crawly things
• Dirt bikes and skateboards
• Do I want to be famous?
• Doing homework
• Going to the dentist
• Gone fishing!
• How to stop hiccups
• How we divide the chores at our house
• I don't understand why . . .
• I'd like to invent a machine that . . .
• If I started my own business, I'd . . .
• Instructions for a pet sitter of my pet
• Let's help the animals by . . .
• Looking at the globe
• My favorite clothes
• My favorite form of exercise
• Pizza is . . .
• Staying at a friend's house
• The first day of school is the worst/best because . . .
• The rules we follow
• Things I see when I take a walk
• What I use a computer for
• What if I were the teacher?
• What is important to me?
• What it's like to use a wheelchair
• What my dreams feel like
• When I see nature, I . . .
• Why I like/dislike playing team sports
• Why my mom and dad are the greatest
• My school really needs . . .
• A day in the life of my pet
• A visit to a friend's school
• An excellent birthday party
• Discovering a new friend
• Getting my first pair of glasses
• Grandma's attic
• I'll never eat another . . .
• My best day
• My first school memories
• My most embarrassing moment
• Rings on her fingers
• Talk about being scared!
• When I did something amazing
• When I was upside down
• When the big storm hit
• If I wrote like the author of . . .
• A really spooky story
• Summer games
• What if we suddenly had to move?
• A game that meant a lot to my childhood
• A school field trip
• A toy I've held onto all these years
• A trip to a space station
• A typical lunch hour
• Can farmers grow enough food for everyone?
• Here's what a new student needs to know
• How I can change the way I look
• How I picture myself four years from now
• How I would define the word . . .
• I would have liked to have lived during this time.
• I'm principal for the day. Here is my schedule.
• I've done something that no one else has done
• If I could be someone else, I would be . . .
• My bedroom from top to bottom
• My favorite place
• My idea of a fun weekend
• My life as a . . .
• My participation in an activity outside of school
• One thing I want to do by the time I leave 8th grade
• Overcoming health problems
• The wildest hairstyle I have ever seen
• What a family member taught me
• What a house of the future might look like
• What I broke or lost that belongs to someone else
• A big hazard on the road
• A big problem in education is . . .
• A cool store
• A dedicated teacher or coach
• Dear Senator
• Discover nature
• Finally, a good assembly
• How could TV be better?
• Let's save _ in our schools
• My best class ever
• My favorite neighbor
• My favorite singer(s)
• Rights that kids in my grade should have
• The worst food I ever ate
• This really bugs me
• What's good about hard work?
• Why I deserve a larger allowance
• Why parents should be honest with their kids
• Why school fund-raisers are important
• Why weekends need to be longer
• A memorable bus ride
• A narrow escape from trouble
• A time that was just not fair
• A visit to a relative's house
• If I lived back in history
• If only I would have listened!
• My first concert
• My first friend
• Summer in a cabin by a lake
• The most fun I've had recently
• We couldn't stop laughing!
• We got caught!
• When I was lost
• A great book made into a great movie
• My favorite character from a book
• What if a book came to life?
• What this story means to me
• How _ came to be.
• Life among the cloud people
• Long ago and far away
• Meeting myself in the future
• Traveling west in a wagon train
• When the dinosaurs returned
• A job I'd really like to have
• All about an amazing place
• The most fascinating things I learned
• The tallest, the deepest, the longest, the biggest
• When I conducted an experiment
• When science took a big leap forward

Personal Writing

• The book that got me hooked on reading
• A day I will always remember
• A friend who moved away
• A great scientific breakthrough
• A person who changed history
• A personal habit I'd like to change
• A project I am working on
• A typical evening at home
• A visit with the doctor or dentist
• An invention that transformed the world
• Causes of a huge change in the world
• Coping with brothers and sisters
• Hanging out
• How a vehicle works
• How do people cope with constant pain?
• How I express myself artistically
• How it would feel to walk in space
• I admit it: I enjoy professional wrestling.
• I take some things too seriously
• If I were a superhero, I'd be . . .
• Is pollution a necessary evil?
• Is this love?
• Morning madness
• My craziest experience in a restaurant or shopping mall
• My dream car
• My first crush
• My first encounter with a bully
• My muscles were so sore after . . .
• My Web site
• Self-esteem
• Something this school really needs is . . .
• Sometimes, adults seem . . .
• The environment: problem and solution
• The hardest thing I have ever done
• The idea hit me like a tornado.
• The next wave of social media
• The toys I'll never give up
• Tools I will need in my intended profession
• We all make mistakes
• What animals can teach people
• What different colors mean to me
• What do Americans do well?
• What do I do to break routine?
• What do I worry about?
• What if school sports were dropped?
• What invention would I like to see in my lifetime?
• What it's like where I work
• Who knows me best?
• Why are crime dramas so popular?
• Why are some people so cruel?
• "Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off the goal."
• A change that would improve school life
• Foods I love, foods I hate
• I couldn't believe that Mom/Dad volunteered me for that job
• It's a rule, so it's right . . . right?
• Let's hear it for my favorite senior citizen
• Let's push alternate forms of energy
• Putting my foot in my mouth
• The government should . . .
• What most drives me crazy is . . .
• Why appearance is not so important
• Why I deserve the job
• _ is like a boomerang
• A funny thing happened when . . .
• A meaningful gift I've given or received
• A time when I got in trouble
• An unforgettable dream
• Looking at pictures of family and friends
• My brother or sister made me so mad
• My worst vacation
• What I regret most
• When I faced my fears
• When I learned something difficult
• When I traveled to . . .
• A remarkable artist
• An all-new album from an important artist
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• Informative writing

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Informative writing prompts

Grade 3 writing prompts.

Students are prompted to write short informative essays about grade level appropriate subjects. Some example sentence starters (stems) and linking words are provided.

Write about conflict

Write about junk food

Write about pets

Write about a future field trip

Write about cheering someone up

Write about your favorite sport

Members only:

Write about third grade

Write about a special place

Write about transportation

Write about heroes

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