10 Short Writing Assignments for Teens and Tweens

These 10 short writing assignments for teens and tweens are a great way to assess student writing, leave with sub, or use as “filler” activities as needed. I keep a few copied and tucked away so I’m always covered if an extra assignment is needed!
Each 2-page writing activity includes a review of key literary terms, important information needed for the assignment (format, guidelines, etc.) and a writing activity.
These writing assignments can take anywhere from 20 minutes to a full class period. Feel free to time students or give them as long as they need. To stretch an activity, have students read aloud for the class or in small groups. The poetry activity is especially fun to read aloud!

Writing assignments included:
1.) Descriptive writing: picture prompt
2.) Persuasive writing: letter to school board
3.) Narrative writing: overcoming challenge essay
4.) Editorial writing: school hot topic editorial
5.) Expository writing: bullying essay
6.) Poetry writing: free verse and haiku
7.) Compare and contrast writing: topic choices provided
8.) Opinion writing: social media essay
9.) Creative writing: sentence starter prompt
10.) Journal writing: two writing prompts

Written in American English.