Excite a child's natural instinct toward curiosity and learning.
Writing does not have to be a chore for 8th-graders; the activity can be fun and educational at the same time. Children, even middle-schoolers, are more likely to learn when writing allows creativity and fun. The child is more likely to learn when the activity engages her rather than through a dull and dry activity unrelated to her interests or imagination.
Strange But True
Ask students to write about a strange fact in history, science or literature. An example of a weird historical fact is that in ancient China, doctors received their fees if their patients were cured, but if not the doctor would have to pay the patients or their families. Strange scientific facts include that octopuses have three hearts, that a tiger without fur would still have stripes, and the phenomenon of raining frogs. Offbeat literary topics might include a biography of the earliest known scientist, the first appearance of the Cinderella story or an explanation that the character of Winnie-the-Pooh is based on a real bear. These topics can fire an eighth-grader's attention. The student must research the topic as well as compose an essay on it.
What If?
Discuss a pivotal point in history, such as the Cuban Missile Crisis. Ask students to write on essay on what the world would be like today if President John F. Kennedy had followed the advice of his military advisers. Other points in history to consider could be what if Charles Lindbergh had been U.S. president during World War II, or how would the world be different if the United States had not responded to global terrorism by going to war. These types of topics generate analytical thinking about how history affects the world around us and our own lives.
Favorite Things
Ask students to describe their favorite activities. Students could also be asked to write instructions describing do their favorite things -- e.g., a strategy in a favorite video game or skateboard -- or why they think the music they listen to is better than classical. 8th graders like to believe they know better than adults, so provide them a forum to display their expertise about the things they like and know best.
Change the World
Provide students an avenue to write about how they would solve problems in their communities or the world. Assign the students a topic such as "If I Were King or President," and ask students how they would change the world, their country or their community for the better if they could.
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