Personal Narrative Essay for Middle School | Prompt Instructions Rubrics Sample Essay

Looking for a fresh twist on personal narrative writing in your middle school ELA classroom? This Do & Write Personal Narrative resource gets students out of the “I don’t know what to write about” rut by having them create new experiences first and then write about them. It’s the perfect blend of writing instruction, student engagement, and social-emotional learning.

With 10 ready-to-go prompts that get students moving, connecting, and reflecting, this activity helps middle schoolers craft personal narratives worth reading—even if they’ve written dozens before.

Clear handouts walk them through every stage of the narrative arc, while self-assessment rubrics streamline your grading and help students take ownership of their work.

Whether you’ve taught personal narrative for years or this is your first go, this resource will make your next unit more intentional, impactful, and downright fun.

Why It Works

• Middle schoolers often struggle to recall meaningful memories on demand. These prompts give them something new to write about—while still hitting the narrative standards.
• Built-in SEL. These activities encourage empathy, risk-taking, kindness, and reflection—making your classroom a more positive place.
• Clear structure, engaging results. With guided handouts, examples, and rubrics for each part of the narrative, students feel confident and supported throughout the process.

What’s Included:

✅ 10 Do + Write Prompts — Students complete a meaningful activity, then reflect and write about it. (Available as a printable list and as draw-and-go cards!)

✅ 8 Narrative Writing Handouts — Each handout covers a part of the narrative arc (hook, setting, conflict, rising action, turning point, falling action, resolution, and conclusion) with:

• Student-friendly explanations
• Rubrics for self- or peer-assessment
• Concrete examples to model strong writing

✅ Completed Sample Narrative — Show students exactly what a well-written response looks like, from start to finish

✅ Teacher Tips — Suggestions for pacing, clarifying, and using rubrics as part of a grade-as-you-go system to save time

✅ Editable Version in Canva — Easily tweak for your students and teaching style

Skills Covered:

• Narrative structure & elements
• Descriptive and reflective writing
• Character growth & conflict
• SEL themes like empathy, self-awareness, and resilience
• Self-assessment

Make your next personal narrative unit one your students will actually remember.With this “do first, write second” approach, you’ll spark creativity, build community, and reinforce essential ELA skills—all in one low-prep, high-impact resource.