Are you looking for an engaging, would you rather writing prompt?

The Winter Would You Rather Writing Prompt writing is a great way for teachers to engage their students in the writing process and help them become better writers. One craft that has proven to be particularly effective is the “Would you rather” prompt. This type of prompt encourages critical thinking and opinion writing while also providing an opportunity to discuss social and emotional learning (SEL) content. In this blog post, we will discuss how to use the “would you rather” prompt in your classroom, as well as offer some tips for making sure that all learners are able to participate in the activity.

A picture of the completed writing craft and student writing checklist.
The completed writing craft and the student checklist.

How To Use The Would You Rather Writing Prompt

Using the “Would you rather” prompt in your classroom is a great way to get students thinking critically and expressing their opinions. To do this, provide a simple prompt such as “When you are down and out, would you rather drink a cup of hot chocolate or have a hug?” Ask students to think about why they chose one option over the other and then explain their answer either through discussion or written form.

An image of the graphic organizer used to support student writing.
A graphic organizer for the Would You Rather Writing Prompt

The Would You Rather Writing Prompt Supports

This activity provides a way for learners of all levels to discover and express themselves through writing. Whether they need extra support or are already confident in their abilities, everyone can find something within this experience.

Adaptions for the Would You Rather Writing Prompt

For example, if some students struggle with handwriting or typing, provide them with images they can cut out and arrange on paper or poster board instead of writing words. This helps them express their ideas without having to worry about writing them down correctly or using perfect punctuation. It also allows visual learners to express themselves in ways that traditional written answers might not allow for.

An image of the Would You Rather Opinion Writing Prompt.
Would You Rather Opinion Writing Craft

Scaffolds for the Would You Rather Writing Prompt

Another tip for making sure all learners can participate is to allow students time to brainstorm ideas together before they begin crafting their answers individually. This allows them time to work through any difficult questions they may have about the prompt before moving forward with their individual responses. Additionally, this collaborative approach allows shy students who might not feel comfortable speaking up during whole-class discussions an opportunity to share their thoughts with classmates in a supportive environment.

A picture of sentence stems used to support all learners of a variety of skills.
Sentence frames are used to support all learners.

Bonus SEL Topic

The “Would you rather” prompt is an engaging way for teachers to get their students excited about writing while also teaching important skills like critical thinking and social-emotional learning (SEL). By adapting the activity for different levels of learners, teachers can ensure that all students get something out of it while also having fun! With just a little bit of creativity and planning ahead, teachers can create an effective craft activity that encourages opinion writing while supporting SEL content at the same time — talk about a win-win!

Using the would you rather writing prompt in your classroom is a great way to get students thinking critically, discussing important topics, and developing their opinion writing skills. With some simple adaptions and scaffolds, all learners can be successful and have fun with this activity. So get creative with your next writing assignment — try out the “Would you rather” prompt today!

The Would You Rather Writing Prompt is pictured here.
The Would You Rather Writing Prompt

More Writing Craft Activities

This Would You Rather Writing Prompt and Craft is just one of many. If you’re interested in others, I also have this blog post, or you can check out the whole bundle in my shop, The Teaching Q, here.

Melissa

Sentence, Paragraphs, and Essays: Oh my! E-book image.

If you’re looking for more ideas on creating a writing routine that works for your elementary-aged students, be sure to check out my Sentences, Paragraphs, and Essays: Oh, my! E-book. You’ll love the tips, tricks, and activities to excite your students about writing!

-Melissa