Quickwrites in the Middles

In the Middles, we begin each writing class with something called a quickwrite. Quickwrites are short, timed, low-stakes writing activities that promote thinking, writing fluency, and confidence by having students respond to a text, image, or prompt. They provide an opportunity to write without the pressure of planning or revision, helping students discover their writing voice and practice the physical act of putting a pencil to paper. Each day we use a different prompt. So far this year, our prompts have been short and simple and have included “tree”, “maple syrup”, and “list of things smaller than a thumbtack”. There are an infinite number of directions to go with this, and changing it up helps keep the practice from getting stale.

There are no rules, right answers, or techniques except that the only sound in the room should be that of pencils on paper and that every student should write continuously. The time limit is not in place so that students feel pressured to write as much as they possibly can. The idea rather, is that this structure helps relieve pressure that may be felt when the writing period is longer. For many students, writing can sometimes feel intimidating. They can worry about spelling every word correctly or forming perfect sentences. This anxiety can prevent them from putting words on the page. The focus in a quickwrite is on getting ideas down, not on producing a polished final product. Because the task is short and is not specifically building towards a larger writing piece, students feel free to take risks. When children learn that writing doesn’t always have to be “perfect,” they’re more likely to experiment with new words, tackle harder ideas, and let their creativity flow. This activity is not only fruitful for the more timid writers but is a classic example of a low floor and high ceiling activity. All students can engage with the activity, and there is no limit to the depth and variety of ways that students can respond.

Perhaps as important as the writing itself is the sharing that we do afterwards. As soon as the three minutes of writing are done, each table group of four shares with the others. After a minute or two of sharing at tables, anyone who would like to share can raise a hand and present their work to the class. Many eager hands shoot up without fail, and at the end, each presenter receives a gentle chorus of supportive snapping from the class. Everyone writes, everyone shares with either their tablemates or the entire class, and we are ready as a class of writers to move on to dig into the subject of the day. 

Quickwrites are a beloved, low-stakes way for students to experience themselves as writers on a regular basis and build their confidence in writing.

Here’s what some Middles say about quickwrites.

“I really like it and it helps a lot with writing and thinking of stuff.”

-Zelda

“They’re pretty fun because it's really fun when I can write really fast and get all of it done really fast.”

- Mateo

Here are some examples of a list-themed quickwrite. The prompt was Things Smaller than a Thumbtack.

Here are some examples of a more free-form quickwrite. The prompt was Maple Syrup.