1000 Quick writing Ideas

“ A JOURNAL AND CREATIVE WRITING KIT ” By Stevan Krajnjan

Contains 1000 practical, relevant, and interesting writing prompts and writing ideas for journal and creative writing activities for anyone, but especially for those students who struggle with inventing their own. 1000 Quick Writing Ideas also provides other ready-to-use, practical and visually appealing, timesaving ideas and reproducible worksheets for your writing program. Don’t re-invent the wheel by creating your own… use the 1000 Quick Writing Ideas! Improve personal efficiency, organization, quality of lessons and appearance of your class handouts, forms and worksheets. Gone are the days of hearing the familiar, “I can’t think of anything to write!”

ISBN 0-9689702-1-4 © Stevan Krajnjan

“ A JOURNAL AND CREATIVE WRITING KIT ” By S. Krajnjan Edited by: Janet Nicolson, Dawn Burr Thank you for purchasing one of the finest, most practical, and visually appealing teacher resource materials available. This book is designed to meet the needs of today’s busy and active teacher.

Enjoy the following exciting features: VISUALLY APPEALING DESIGN EASY-TO-READ AND UNDERSTAND FORMAT RELEVANT, FRESH, USEFUL AND PRACTICAL IDEAS REPRODUCIBLE TIME SAVING WORKSHEETS FOR YOUR WRITING PROGRAM READY-TO-USE WORKSHEETS SAVES VALUABLE TIME! © 2001 Timesavers for Teachers

Copyright Permission is granted to the individual teacher who purchases one copy of the book titled “1000 Quick Writing Ideas”, to reproduce the pages for use in his/her classroom only. Reproduction of these materials, in any form, for other colleagues or for commercial sale is strictly prohibited. Font Sources: Corel Draw!, Microsoft Publisher 2000, Soft Key, Expert Software. Graphics Sources: Microsoft Publisher 2000

For additional timesaving teacher resources please contact:

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1000 QUICK WRITING IDEAS

“ A JOURNAL AND CREATIVE WRITING KIT ”

AUTHOR Stevan Krajnjan

TEACHER: _________________________________________ ROOM: _________________________________________

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SUBSTITUTE TEACHER INSTRUCTIONS

1000 QUICK WRITING IDEAS

1000 QUICK WRITING IDEAS

1000 QUICK WRITING IDEAS

1000 QUICK WRITING IDEAS

1000 QUICK WRITING IDEAS

1000 QUICK WRITING IDEAS

BINDER SPINE LABELS

How to use this Book ……………………………………………………… 1 1000 Ideas for Writing ..............................................................................

2 - 12

The Writing Process ……………………………………………………… 13 When Writing ............................................................................................... 14 Proofread it! ...............................................................................………...

15

Idea Web .................................................................................................

16

My Misspelled Words List .......................................................................... 17 My Misspelled Words ................................................................................. 18 Most Often Misspelled Words ....................……........................…...........…19 6 Spelling Rules .........................................................................................…20 Writing Numerals ......................................................................................... 21 My New Words ..........................................................................................

22

100, 200, 300 Most Often Used Words ...................................................... 23 - 25 Contractions ................................................................................................. 26 Punctuation at a Glance ............................................................................... 27 Often Used Prefixes and Activity .............................................................

28 - 29

Often Used Suffixes ..................................................................................… 30 Parts of Speech ...........................................................................................

31

Individual Writing Assessment at a Glance ……………………………… 32 Writing Evaluation Forms ………………………………………………..

33 - 38

Homework Not Done! ................................................................................

39

Things to do ………………………………………………………………. 40 Bibliography …………………………………………………………….. © Stevan Krajnjan

41

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

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This book is designed to motivate and provide quick and relevant writing prompts/ideas for students in your class who find it difficult to get their writing engines going in the journal or creative writing classes. These are the students who consequently complain, procrastinate, and get distracted more often than those who are always ready to write. When encouraged to begin the writing task, the first communicated reason for not doing anything is most often the familiar, “I can’t think of anything to write.” Well, those days are over! WHAT TO DO: 1.

Print several copies of 1000 Quick Writing Ideas.

2.

Hand them out to reluctant writers or to every student in the class. You may, want to create more permanent copies of these sheets that could then be re-used without making additional copies (saves paper).

3.

Store the sheets in folders, binders, or duo tangs to prevent physical damage and keep them well organized and accessible (store all binders in one central area of classroom). It is not recommended that all 1000 ideas be handed out at once. Try 100 or 200 at a time.

4.

Students highlight (if given a personal copy of sheets), collect, and make a list of topics of interest that could be used in personal writing, and record the selected topics at the front or back of their journal books.

5.

At the beginning of the journal or creating writing period encourage students (or give the option) to dig into, and use some of the 1000 ideas.

© Stevan Krajnjan

© Timesavers for Teachers

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1000 Quick Writing Ideas

1000 Quick Writing Ideas

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If I could become invisible... This is my father’s/mother’s job. Reasons why people lie. Reasons for going to church. These are the reasons why I don’t go to church. The meaning of “freedom”. I will tell you a story that is only half true. Why do nations wage wars? There will be peace on earth only when... I have something to tell you teacher. Did you know that... The scariest thing that ever happened to me. I once had a scary dream. The strangest dream I ever had. I believe in God. I don’t believe in God because... The meaning of Christmas. Hockey is my life. I get scared when... I wish that I could... I am happy when... I am sad when... The things that get me upset. My favorite subject. My least favorite subject. I just can’t seem to get along with anyone The things that bug me. Why is it that...? This is my family. When I grow up. Our most interesting substitute teacher. My most embarrassing moment. I watch too much television The most interesting place that I have ever visited. What I would do if I were rich. My three wishes. What I think about gambling. My best friend. Friendship is... Why I think friendships are important. This is my home. I play a musical instrument. My experience at the hospital. Things that I like about our school. Things that I don’t like about our school. This is my favorite sport. I would like to tell you about my class. These are some things that I do very well. The proudest moment of my life. The saddest moment of my life. © Stevan Krajnjan

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The happiest moment of my life. My accomplishments. Why I like animals. My favorite movie. My favorite television show. My fondest school memory. The person that I admire. The most interesting person that I have ever met. The biggest mess that I ever got myself into. My fondest childhood memory. This is my hobby. My biggest goal in life. Things are not going well for me right now. My parents. My religion. My first flight. I like..., and these are the reasons why. I very much dislike..., because... My life as a citizen of a new country. What I think about vandalism, drugs and smoking. Ways in which troubled kids can be helped. Reasons why people argue. The best book that I ever read. This book was really bad. I often get frustrated. Dear teacher, I would like to ask you some questions. Dear teacher, there is something that you need to know. When I turn 16. When I become an adult this is what I will be like. My future wife. My future husband. If I could change the world I would do the following. My wish. The present that I would like to receive. Qualities that I look for in a friend. The greatest summer ever. The greatest vacation ever. I like cars. My favorite and least liked foods. I have a disability. When I take a long look in the mirror this is what I see. What I would like to do when I get older. How the problem of hunger can be solved. The problem of crime can be eliminated by... If I could live anywhere in the world it would be... Music is an important part of my life. Why are so many people selfish, greedy and unfriendly? Things that I like doing. The things that really bother me. My favorite music group.

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I would like to tell you what is on my mind. I am scared of bugs and other insects. The most important thing in my life. The most important person in my life. The things that I collect. For my next birthday I wish that I could get... My role model. I have attended several schools. I am looking forward to... Why is there so much suffering in the world? Life after death? This is my opinion. This is how ... works. How I spend my leisure time. My favorite time of the year. There is too much violence on television. Watching television can negatively effect your future. If I could buy anything I would purchase the following... If I had a real magic wand. I wish that I could be like... Going to school is important. If I knew that I had only one week to live. The most interesting school trip. The countries that I have visited. My opinion about lying. The problems with today’s media. Our polluted earth and what we can do about it. I have a complaint or two. Job description for an ideal profession. How my life would change if I were to live on my own. If I could be a leader of our country. The most amazing thing that ever happened to me. If I were a teacher for a day. If I were a parent for a day. Television is worth watching because... Happiness is... My greatest fear. Life on other planets. Crime does not pay. Being a friend is more than just... Life is worth living. If I were stranded on a deserted island. My first visit to a hospital. How I would survive being lost in the wilderness. The greatest person who ever lived. I often panic when... I can’t stand the cold weather! Being rich means... My best features are... My best qualities. Being successful means...

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I wish people knew the following about me. How to deal with anger. Creative excuse for not getting an assignment done. These are my special friends. I would be a better person if... I could, this is what I would like to change about me. The greatest mistake I ever made. I like watching scary movies. Creating horror movies is wrong. If I knew that I could never die... If I was all-powerful and all-knowing. If I were as small as a fly... If I could travel into the future. If I could travel into the past. If I could be anyone for a day I would be... Animals are often more pleasant than human beings. The “eleventh” commandment. To my greatest love I would give the following gifts. What I like and dislike about living in a city. The greatest prank I ever pulled. The nicest thing I ever did. I love my computer. The greatest movie ever made. Being a pet has its advantages. Life as a teenager. At the end of a rainbow one can find... I believe in ghosts. Pain is... World without... (wheels, electricity, death, money etc.) The world’s greatest person. The most famous person I have ever met. I get angry when... I would like to tell you about my brother/sister. My grandparents. The riskiest thing that I ever did. The most unstable period in my life. Love of money is the root of all evil. Why I am scared of dentists and/or other doctors. My favorite clothes. Love is... This is how I think the world will end. Hate is... Commitment is important. This is my life. The first person I ever fell in love with. I enjoy watching storms. My secret desire. I am a very special person. Our world is full of negative influences. The most useful skill.

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

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Me and my big mouth! I enjoy shopping. The dangers of gossip. Being creative means... Treat others the way you would like to be treated. Ways in which our class could be improved. I have several suggestions. All religions are the same. All religions are not the same. The things without which I simply couldn’t live. Life would be easier if... If I didn’t have to go to school... I feel sorry for... My opinion about exercise. Discipline at our school. The teachers at my school. I wonder if... Please help me. I love my computer. I find computers intimidating. Those were the good old days. It always seems to happen to me. Death is... The mistakes that my parents are making. The best car in the world. I am proud of my country. I am proud of who I am. Some of the things our world could do without. I feel so insecure. The difficulties of being a teenager. Our school could use a change. I always live by the following rules. If I could be a principal for a day. Cooperation is the answer. How I learned to ride my bike. Slowing down and smelling the flowers is important. Being educated means... Things that I just can’t seem to do. Wrong role models. Problems caused by drinking alcohol. Drinking and driving are a deadly mix. Avoid “the quick sand” crowd. This person has it all. I often feel lazy. I feel at my very best when... I hope that I never... The accident I witnessed. The ... I witnessed. When I become a parent. We should be thankful for...

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The things that confuse me. I love my... I once almost... Journal writing is... I enjoy sleeping in. This is how day and night happen. This is how the world began. My favorite desserts. People should make an effort to get along. Health is important. Where did human beings originate? Believe it or not... Believe it or not, I once... I believe in UFOs. Reasons why I don’t give it my best in school. School, a positive and negative experience. Some things that I will always regret doing. The final message to my teacher. If I had my own computer. I like camping. My favorite memory. I wish that our school didn’t have... A letter to a celebrity. The ideal school. Ten reasons why friends have fights. When I get scared I... I enjoy watching television. My parents are very strict. My favorite song. The most meaningful moment of my life. I couldn’t exist without... It’s just not fair! The ideal family. The ideal world. I can’t wait for Summer. Why is everyone in a rush? My personal “ten commandments”. My greatest discovery. I feel very ... today. The sounds I hear in our classroom. My best birthday ever. I don’t like my neighborhood. My pet peeves. My neighborhood. I would like to tell you about... My five-year plan. My ten-year plan. The ideal me. If I could be good at anything I would like it to be... Thirty years from now...

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

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I was once in a car accident. The car accident that changed my life. Do I ever love shopping! I can’t stand going shopping with ... My chores and responsibilities. This is what I think of exercise. If I were a film director I would make a film about ... These are the things that my friends and I enjoy doing My family and I get to do a lot of traveling. The most fascinating place in the world. I will tell you about my favorite video game. Playing video games may be hazardous to your mind. I am addicted to ... Being a teenager has is advantages and disadvantages. I can’t wait to become an adult. How I would solve the problem of poverty. Money isn’t everything. The reasons why people get unusual haircuts. I will explain to you why I think people wear earrings. The “X” generation. I can’t stand hearing about the subject of politics. Most politicians are crooks. Computers are confusing, complicated and frustrating. Computer technology is absolutely amazing! I love using computers. The computer equipment I have at home. The computer equipment I wish I had. One day the computers will ... Sports, the new gods of our century. Our polluted and endangered world. Evolution or Creation? I love reading books, and this is my favorite book. Women are better at some things than men. The things that men do better than women. Men and women are equal. There are many differences between men and women. I wish that everyone would simply get along. This is my future. My past. I believe in miracles. Killing is wrong. I agree with capital punishment. I disagree with capital punishment. If God does not exist then who makes the rules? I am not very good at ... I am a “night” person. My musical instrument. Where does the universe end? Where is the end of universe and what is on the other side? What existed before the universe was created?

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How can there be infinity? If there is an end to the universe what is on the other side? Dog is “man’s best friend”. The reasons why I often get lazy. I am very good at building things. The most interesting person that I ever met. These are my relatives. I am prone to accidents. All the bad things seem to happen to me! I will tell you about my nightmares. I flew in an airplane. The things that I wish I could do. If I could be honest with my teachers I would tell ... I am scared of ... Television, then and now. Movies, then and now. If God really did exist then ... I am always bored and I don’t know what to do about it. Life is boring. The day I began to wear glasses. Life and being alive is exciting! I can truly say that I never get bored. I hate exercising. My imagination often gets me into trouble. Gambling is wrong. Where does the freedom of choice end? Honesty is the thread that binds a healthy society. Spiders, insects and creepy, slithering things scare me. May I tell you about my crazy friends? Someone should do something about ... Watching professional wrestling may be hazardous. Some people are clean and well organized by nature. The rules that I live by. The most important rule. Life is a great mystery. I feel confused. Today I feel very happy. Why are there so many religions in this world? Will somebody tell me what is going on? The worst smell that my nose ever had to endure. The habits I would like to get rid of. A very special moment. Accidents will happen! The worst weather I ever experienced. I do not celebrate the following holidays. My favorite expression or saying. Could you please help me? I was been born in a wrong century. My childhood. final words to this world will likely be ...

© Stevan Krajnjan

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Things that are important in life. Death is nothing to be scared of. The challenges I face in life. Hell is ... Heaven is a place where ... I want be a car mechanic. I am a very moody person. If my airplane was about to crash ... The chores I dread doing. What a camping trip! I often get scared thinking about the future. Airplanes and flight fascinate me. The difference between cosmos and space. Why do vegetarians eat only plants? My deadliest encounter with the Principal. The worst storm I ever experienced. Computers and new technology frustrate me. The meaning of life. There is nothing wrong with begging. Homelessness is a frightening idea. Is anyone listening to my prayers? Life is not fair. Life is more than fair. If I were an animal I would like to be ... My favorite substitute teacher. The traffic nightmare. The day I almost froze to death. Feminism, the pros and cons. Today is my birthday. The rap music and its influences on the young. We had a great party in our class. My teacher and I just don’t get along. I am a very forgetful person. Excuses for not doing homework. The best excuse ever. I would like to write a story about ... I often daydream about ... I wish that I could get out of this class. Some people have problems with personal hygiene. Those who don’t work don’t get to eat. Sunday afternoon drive into the country. My opinion about Christian music. My participation in the Science Fair. Our church youth group. Major world religions. The most memorable school project. Our school dances. Everyone needs to do their share. I am troubled. I have a fear of flying.

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I am afraid of dying. The coolest teaching assistant we ever had. The need for salvation, fact or fiction. The most difficult student in our class. Our school Principal. The best school I attended. My solution to pollution. The reasons why many creatures are endangered. I am in a rotten mood today and let me tell you why. What I think of group work and cooperation. I enjoy gardening. Today I feel sick. I don’t enjoy wearing glasses. How and when the universe was created. This is my opinion about the origin of life on earth. Gospel music. Computers in the classroom. Computers are a double-edged sword. My parents are divorced. My parents are unique people. We are a single parent family. Our school custodian. My neighbors and their habits. The first time I witnessed a funeral. The first dead body I saw. I don’t like going to funerals. My home town. I miss my old country I often find myself thinking negative thoughts. Winning is everything. How to be successful in life. True love means. The most important job in the world. The most positive person I know. I am a very giving person. People often ignore me and put me down. I love going to our cottage. How men and women should relate. My own solution to the vandalism problem. I often feel very lonely. Carrying a grudge ... Let’s talk about ... Money, fame, and power. The issue of honesty. I wish I had a different family. My troubles with ... Having the right attitude is everything. I feel guilty about ... Ten reasons for staying in school. I am an optimist.

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

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I don’t get the smile stickers any more. What’s on my mind today. I seem very irritable lately. My hobby. I am thrilled about flying. My nightmare woke me up. The unique substitute teacher. I wish that I could change my teachers. The first snowfall. I am always short of money. I wish that I had more money for clothes. I once knew a person who ... Wearing appropriate clothing is important. The fussiest person ever. I am getting in a Christmas mood. Our school appears very dirty. I get very nervous before major tests. Our parks are filled with broken glass. Important world issues. Why do we have to do homework? Someone stole something from me. Christmas, a time for ... Both of my parents are very ill. Dinosaurs and the reason for their extinction. She just can’t stop talking. Garbage, garbage, garbage… garbage everywhere! My sick relative. I really long for ... My dearest friend. My worst enemy. The day when time stood still. I need to apologize. The benefits of being physically active. I have not behaved responsibly today. I have been disciplined unfairly. I feel sorry for some kids in our class. Going to church is not important. Attending a church is very important. The most thrilling day of my life. He is truly an amazing human being! I can’t think of anything to write. The photos of myself always turn out lousy. Sex education in our school. Should we still celebrate Christmas? One day I will travel around the world. Commercialism in Christmas. I like watching nature shows. I miss my ... I saw someone stealing. Having faith in God is important.

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Spelling, spelling! What’s the big deal? My daddy is in the hospital. Having faith in God is not important. My thoughts on abstinence. My handwriting is awful. Life without homework. Learning grammar is dull but important. I am leaving school early today. Why do some go to church only twice a year? My momma is in the hospital. The two biggest issues I am faced with. My family is extremely poor. When I die I will go to ... I was robbed. I am already tired of school. I wish that my neighborhood ... I will tell you about my scars. Getting a tattoo. Prayer in our schools. Going to school is a lot of fun this year. Junk food. The thing that I value the most. Misery and Suffering, my two friends. What can I do about ... Earth Day. Our computer lab. The pros and cons of Special Education. Will our country ever separate? Some talk shows are getting out of hand. The baby-sitting nightmare. I don’t know very many people. I left my heart in ... Terrorism in the world. Who needs computers? Why I choose to drink alcohol. Space station, a possibility? I don’t enjoy washing the dishes. The Lifeguard that I fell in love with. Are our schools really teaching us what is important? I am always the one who is stuck with cleaning. Halloween, a trick or treat? Organ transplants. The amazing Star Trek series. Shopping can be dangerous to your health! My favorite “quiet time”. Photography, the king of hobbies. I cheated on a test. I love plants and gardens. Visiting my friends. Are ghosts real?

© Stevan Krajnjan

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In our family ... I want to be a doctor. When I face death ... Space, infinitely amazing space! Interstellar travel, a possibility or not. I have a computer phobia. School bullies. Sibling rivalry and me. My brother and I just don’t get along. My special brother/sister. I spent a whole day in isolation. How to improve our class atmosphere. Our school bus driver. Our schools should teach us ... The dreaded visits to the Principal’s office. My first visit to the Principal’s office. The punishment for cheating in school. My cousin is coming for a visit. I am very disorganized. Technology, a friend or a foe? When I grow up I want to work with hands. My future family. My first school suspension. I would like to learn how to play ... I have never seen an ocean. I enjoy sleeping late on Saturdays. My part-time job. In our school ... The Monopoly game. I can’t wait to get a driver’s license. Why I choose to smoke. The pranks kids play at our school. Our family’s biggest event. We always have a lot of fun in the snow. My brother and I can’t seem to stop arguing. The time the power went off. In our family dinner time is the time when ... Our adventures in the snow. My favorite pop. I really enjoy science. Yesterday ... Every weekend ... I often have nothing to say. I just don’t learn the way everyone else learns. The most dangerous prank. Not one person cares about me. Our long vacation drive. Let me tell you why I misbehave in class. I feel awkward in a group setting. I tend to be a loner.

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I am totally against smoking. Everyone has the right to do whatever they wish. My fantasy. The power struggle with my teacher. Nobody knows the troubles I have seen. I just can’t sit still all day. I can’t wait for Spring. I can’t wait for Christmas. I can be trusted. I choose to be the way I am. I didn't choose to be the way I am. This was not my fault. Let’s make a deal.. My future. My past. Why are people so unfair? My teacher picks on me. I don’t know anything about anything. I wish that we went out for dinner more often. The people I would like to surround myself with. I made some inappropriate choices. Why are adults are not treating me well? Someone touched me inappropriately. We never have anything exciting to eat. The people on my street have changed. We are moving soon. I enjoy controlling others. I often get abused. Things that I care about. How I relieve stress in my life. I have had several new teachers for the same class. Selecting clothes to wear each day is such a chore. Lunch, my favorite period. I am the best person for the job. I went to work with my dad. I finally learned how to swim. I feel that I am ugly. My life has improved. I am overdue for a change. The fakes and crooks that I know. I saw a drug dealer today. We have a fantastic team. My dad lets me use his tools. I don’t enjoy looking at myself in the mirror. My partner. My bones have been broken in several places. The teachers that wouldn’t give up on me. My plans for this year. What I value in life. I will tell you why I am always quiet.

© Stevan Krajnjan

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FOR

701. 702. 703. 704. 705. 706. 707. 708. 709. 710. 711. 712. 713. 714. 715. 716. 717. 718. 719. 720. 721. 722. 723. 724. 725. 726. 727. 728. 729. 730. 731. 732. 733. 734. 735. 736. 737. 738. 739. 740. 741. 742. 743. 744. 745. 746. 747. 748. 749. 750.

What do you think of this idea? I don't need school in order to be successful. It is difficult for me to focus on my tasks. The time that I cried. I can’t remember the last time I cried. My real dad. My real mom. I should have kept my mouth shut. The bullies that I have to deal with every day. I am struggling and I can’t take it any more. My favorite place. Teachers are all the same. Something unusual I did today. How I wish I went on a vacation. I am a very hyper person and can’t seem to control it. Next year will be the right time for starting a new life. What exactly is at the end of cosmos? We live in a very unique world. The time I got lost. The twenty most important words. The good things about our education system. The negative things about our education system. The winter of pure delightful fun. Why do you always give us too much homework? Should Halloween be celebrated in the public schools? I believe in spiritual beings. I am proud of my accomplishments. I am a very active person. I am superstitious. Dear teacher, I have some advice for you. I find myself feeling angry and resentful. My most interesting conversation. I enjoy drama. The whole world is a stage. My secret fantasy. I enjoy laughing. Things that make me nervous. My favorite board game. Good news - bad news. Horoscopes are unscientific. My first job. Too many television commercials. Why bother? Knowledge is the key to gaining power. The things I derive pleasure from. The things I derive pleasure from. I like and prefer to work by myself. I need help! Writing is not my favorite activity. I am so scared!

751. 752. 753. 754. 755. 756. 757. 758. 759. 760. 761. 762. 763. 764. 765. 766. 767. 768. 769. 770. 771. 772. 773. 774. 775. 776. 777. 778. 779. 780. 781. 782. 783. 784. 785. 786. 787. 788. 789. 790. 791. 792. 793. 794. 795. 796. 797. 798. 799. 800.

I am a workaholic. My haunting daily fears. I would like to experiment with ... I am a proud and confident person. I am a very insecure individual who needs help. I am confused. Try solving the following riddles. I will now describe to you my favorite food. The nightmare at the hospital. I miss my old friends. I wish that I could be an adult right now. I feel very sick today. I am just not interested in sports. Discipline in our schools. Our class discipline. Why am I so different? When I am afraid ... But you just don’t understand! The reason I stopped drinking. Taking my medications in school is embarrassing. My parents just don’t understand me. I enjoy playing my instrument. I always get interrupted when I talk. People always call me names. I have many talents. I have an idea I would like to share with you. Our playground is a dangerous place. I would like the following questions answered please. What a horrible experience that was. I have my own garden. Our Science Fair. Things that are important to me. I befriended a new student. I always help my mother prepare meals. The best way to succeed today is ... I am worried about my family. I am starved for some good food. I am not a technically minded person. I am often misunderstood by others. I enjoy planting seeds and watching them grow. If I could invent something it would be ... I love going to the beach. Single-parent families. The day I almost drowned. My pet is absolutely wild. My pet is a psycho. The first thing I would save in a house fire. There is more to life than sports. I choose to be an optimist in a pessimistic world. I am a vegetarian.

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

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FOR

801. 802. 803. 804. 805. 806. 807. 808. 809. 810. 811. 812. 813. 814. 815. 816. 817. 818. 819. 820. 821. 822. 823. 824. 825. 826. 827. 828. 829. 830. 831. 832. 833. 834. 835. 836. 837. 838. 839. 840. 841. 842. 843. 844. 845. 846. 847. 848. 849. 850.

I love my family. My worst bodily injury. My dad has a very difficult job. People shouldn’t kill animals for meat. My single-parent mom is a very hard worker. I don’t have a problem with eating meat. Our basement is a great place for playing. My favorite dish. Let me tell you about what I can do. I am not motivated to do anything. Housework is for women only. Housework can be done by men too. I am tired of writing stories in school. The dullest person I ever met. The obstacles I am facing in my life. If I could be an animal I would be ... Two working parents and children do not mix. The day I almost lost my life. People today are not committed to a moral standard. This is my character sketch. My inspiration. I once participated in ... If I were as small as Tom Thumb. Why do I talk to myself all the time? I help my older neighbors with their chores. People of faith are law abiding citizens. Believers in God are wasting their time. Friendship is ... If I were a giant. Would I risk my life to save a friend? I am a slow learner. Reasons why I do well in school. I often sit around with nothing to do. We have a new baby in our family. What is the most important thing in life? I saw a very good movie. There is a special event coming up. The way I celebrate my birthday. Please help me with ... If I could teach my class something it would be ... The field trip that went wrong from the word go. The most interesting science experiment. Adjusting to my step-mother and her family. My step-father will never replace my real dad. I am a very responsible person. I am not a very responsible person. Reasons why the Middle East is always in the news. Our environment is in a serious danger. I don’t believe in divorce. I am terrified of flying.

851. 852. 853. 854. 855. 856. 857. 858. 859. 860. 861. 862. 863. 864. 865. 866. 867. 868. 869. 870. 871. 872. 873. 874. 875. 876. 877. 878. 879. 880. 881. 882. 883. 884. 885. 886. 887. 888. 889. 890. 891. 892. 893. 894. 895. 896. 897. 898. 899. 900.

What I think of racism. Let me tell you what it’s like ... The nightmare I remember. There will never be peace on earth. I am afraid of needles. I wish that I could help my friend. The truth about ... If I could write a book it would be about ... I love my pet. Should animals be used for research? Instead of collecting taxes the government should ... If God doesn’t exist then ... I spend my whole summer ... I want to become a veterinarian. My father just lost his job. I am against/ for clear cutting old forests. I don’t like being in a special education class. Ideal job description. The greatest destructive force in the world. The greatest enemy of our nation. The axis of evil. If Darwin’s Theory of Evolution is correct then ... Downloading music through the internet. I feel very depressed. The worst punishment I ever experienced. The best way to protect our environment. All weapons of mass destruction should be destroyed. Greed – healthy/ unhealthy emotion. The phobia I have to live with. My parents’ divorce has ruined my life. Adjusting to my new country. I have already started investing. How to solve the problem of crime. I am a very emotional person. Modern technology and its effects on our society. I am tired of watching violence on TV. Capitalism versus communism. My new chores around the house. I renounce dishonesty. Fads simply come and go. Being shy is one of my biggest problems. I miss my deceased grandfather/ grandmother. Neither of my parents have a job. My teachers are not fair to me. The people I admire. Advantages of having a computer. I am afraid of public speaking. Who am I? I can’t seem to handle very many things. Five questions I would ask God.

© Stevan Krajnjan

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FOR

901. 902. 903. 904. 905. 906. 907. 908. 909. 910. 911. 912. 913. 914. 915. 916. 917. 918. 919. 920. 921. 922. 923. 924. 925. 926. 927. 928. 929. 930. 931. 932. 933. 934. 935. 936. 937. 938. 939. 940. 941. 942. 943. 944. 945. 946. 947. 948. 949. 950.

I don’t feel safe in my house. Directions for how to make a ... My three goals in life are ... The first thing that came to my mind. My observations about our class. Reasons for optimism. I really care about ... I know exactly what my career will be. Our world is an amazing place. How I would help the disadvantaged. Extreme nationalism can be a dangerous thing. My thoughts on war. I would like to publish a book one day. Ways our school can be improved. Our class curriculum can be improved. I just love riding my bicycle. I often feel so inadequate and awkward. Ten things I dislike. Music is my life. Reasons why celebrating Earth Day is important. I don’t know how to use the computer yet. Next weekend ... Miracle healers, fact or fiction. Something wonderful happened. What my first date will be like. I feel so lonely and insecure without a girlfriend. I feel very lonely without a boyfriend. Everyone seems to have a partner except me. What I think of the major world religions. I am a very fortunate person. Our family has fallen on very hard times. My opinion of fortune tellers. I have a good joke to tell you. If I had the power to run our school. When I have kids. My experience with alcoholics. Computer skills are very important. My first love. I argue a lot. My first date. I take advice only from ... You don’t know who your friends are until ... Television, the greatest baby-sitter. The police need our support. I witnessed something very unpleasant. I would like to play an instrument. People that kill others should... Extraterrestrial beings, fact or fiction. The first time I surfed the Internet. Watching television takes away from creativity.

951. 952. 953. 954. 955. 956. 957. 958. 959. 960. 961. 962. 963. 964. 965. 966. 967. 968. 969. 970. 971. 972. 973. 974. 975. 976. 977. 978. 979. 980. 981. 982. 983. 984. 985. 986. 987. 988. 989. 990. 991. 992. 993. 994. 995. 996. 997. 998. 999. 1000.

Next year ... Let me tell you about last summer. The future of mankind. Little evidence of caring in our world. Why aren’t more people friendly and generous? I don’t feel safe where we live. I am a very angry person. I enjoy observing severe weather. Crossword puzzles are a great deal of fun. My favorite novel. The number one baseball player. I have read the Bible. I have never read the Bible and have no interest. I would like to be an explorer. School is never fun for me. What I think about “the new millennium”. Why I dress and behave differently. I am a very creative person. My talents. I don’t like taking frequent showers. Television is a drug. The kinds of movies I like to watch. My first experience with the police. When I get in trouble my punishment at home is ... Cars are simply too expensive. Cars are detrimental to our environment. I find interesting game boards interesting. The most exciting thing that happened in school. My first pair of glasses. My first camping experience. I enjoy hiking the following trails. What is on the other side of the end of the universe? Is it possible for a supernatural God to exist. I am already hooked on smoking and need help. How I began smoking. Computers and technology frustrate me. Computers and I have nothing in common. What’s the big hoopla about the Internet all about? Our school computers got the virus. I know someone who desperately needs help. I have to take medications for the rest of my life. Keeping long-term friendships is very difficult. Everyone I know is either an alcoholic or on drugs. I enjoy cooking good food. Anything is possible if you try and don’t quit. Juvenile delinquent laws are too soft. Forms, applications and instructions confuse me. I am trying really hard but not getting anywhere. Exercise is the key to long and healthy life. Smoking cigarettes is a gamble.

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

11

More timesaving ideas...

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

12

STAGES OF WRITING

BEFORE WRITING (brainstorm & discuss to generate ideas; select a topic, decide the purpose & audience; organize your ideas) MAKE A DRAFT (write a 1st draft, not perfect or final, will contain mistakes, do not worry about small details… just write!) REVISE (consider content, focus and organize your ideas and then improve what you wrote, make it clearer, change words & information ) EDIT (“the details” - correct and improve spelling, punctuation, grammar, clarity of text; add or take away information, fix mistakes) PUBLISH (write a final draft, presenting to public, determine how your work will be presented, make it look good!)

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

13

Consider the following questions: 1.

Is my introduction, relevant, interesting and attention-catching?

2.

Have I written using paragraphs?

3.

Have I written using sentences of different type?

4.

Have I used appropriate verb tenses?

5.

Am I writing from a clear point of view?

6.

Have I kept on topic and not wandered?

7.

Have I included interesting comparisons?

8.

Are my ideas expressed in a clear and interesting language? Have I avoided the use of slang words?

9.

Do my sentences flow, or are they too long/short?

10.

Is there any unnecessary repetition of words or ideas?

11.

Are my thoughts and ideas organized in a logical sequence? Can the reader easily follow and understand what I am trying to say?

12.

Have I proofread my work and corrected any spelling and punctuation errors?

13.

Have I written an effective and interesting conclusion?

14.

Is my work polished and ready for public presentation?

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

14

The following checklist will help you proofread your written work. When done, ask a classmate, parent, or a teacher to proofread it again. Author: ____________________________________ Work Title: ___________________________________

Things to check for:

( Use

, or ? )

Proof-reader #1 #2

1. The title is correctly spelled and underlined. 2. Written work is legible and well spaced. 3. Each sentence is a complete thought. 4. Spelling errors are underlined (circled) and corrected. 5. The following were used correctly:

commas periods quotation marks apostrophes

6. Capitalized names of:

places and people

first letter in a sentence months, days, and holidays important “title” words 7.

Written ideas are easy to understand.

8.

Text was written using paragraphs.

Proof-reader #1 ________________________ Proof-reader #2 _______________________ © Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

15

Name: _______________________ Date: ________________________

THE

Plan and organize your writing more effectively by brainstorming and generating ideas that have topics and subtopics or major and minor themes.

“TOPIC WEB”

Subtopic

Subtopic

Subtopic

Subtopic

The Main Idea/Topic

Subtopic

Subtopic

Subtopic

Subtopic

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

16

Name: ________________________ Class: _________

Place each misspelled word in the left column. Find the correct spelling. Place the correctly spelled word in the right column.

THE WAY I SPELLED IT

CORRECT SPELLING

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24.

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

17

Name: __________________________ Class: _________________________ List # __________

1.

16.

31.

46.

2.

17.

32.

47.

3.

18.

33.

48.

4.

19.

34.

49.

5.

20.

35.

50.

6.

21.

36.

51.

7.

22.

37.

52.

8.

23.

38.

53.

9.

24.

39.

54.

10.

25.

40.

55.

11.

26.

41.

56.

12.

27.

42.

57.

13.

28.

43.

58.

14.

29.

44.

59.

15.

30.

45.

60.

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

18

Most Often

Words

a lot

desert

instead

seems

Tuesday

about

didn’t

isn’t

separate

twelve

again

die

it’s

shoes

two

almost

different

I’ve

sight

used

always

early

knew

since

very

answer

easy

know

some

wasn’t

appear

eight

knowledge

somewhere

wear

because

enough

laid

straight

weather

beautiful

every

length

sure

Wednesday

been

exercise

language

suite

week

beginning

exciting

lie

sure

weight

believe

February

loose

sweat

were

below

flew

lose

sweet

we’re

blue

flight

lying

tear

where

break

forty

meant

their

whether

built

four

measure

there

which

business

fourth

minute

therefore

who

busy

friend

necessary

they

who’s

buy

government

none

they’re

whole

cannot

guess

once

they’ve

whose

can’t

guest

o’clock

though

won’t

caught

half

peace

thought

would

check

hear

piece

threw

wouldn’t

choose

heard

raise

through

write

clothes

here

receive

throw

writing

coming

hole

right

tired

wrote

cough

hour

route

tonight

you’ll

could

I’d

said

too

you’re

couldn’t

I’ll

says

trouble

you’ve

decide

I’m

science

truly

your

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

19

DOUBLE

THE FINAL CONSONANT

1.

When adding a suffix beginning with a vowel to any words ending in a single consonant preceded by a vowel - double the final consonant. (Example: mop + ing = mopping, begin + ing = beginning) DROP

2.

THE SILENT “e”

When adding a suffix beginning with a vowel to a word ending in a silent “e” - drop the silent “e”. (Example: fame + ous = famous, bite + ing = biting, come + ing = coming) KEEP

3

THE SILENT “e”

When adding the suffix, able, ance, or ous to a word ending in soft ce or ge - keep the silent “e”. (Example: courage + ous = courageous, notice + able = noticeable)

Likewise, when adding a suffix beginning with a consonant to a word ending in silent “e” keep the silent “e”. (Example: safe + ty = safety, complete + ly = completely)

CHANGE THE “y” TO “i”

4.

When adding a suffix to a word ending in a y preceded by a consonant - change the “y” to “i” (Example: lazy + ly = lazily, lonely + ness = loneliness)

“i” BEFORE “e” EXCEPT AFTER “c” 5.

This rule rhymes! Place “ i before e except after c”. Apply this rule to words in which i and e are pronounced as ee. (Example: brief, chief, achieve, believe, receive, receipt, yield, brief, thief)

“E” BEFORE “I” 6.

In words where the pronunciation of “ei” is a long a— place “e” before “i”. (Example: reign, sleigh, weight, neighbor, freight)

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

20

1

I

One

24

XXIV

Twenty-four

2

II

Two

25

XXV

Twenty-five

3

III

Three

26

XXVI

Twenty-six

4

IV

Four

27

XXVII

Twenty-seven

5

V

Five

28

XXVIII

Twenty-eight

6

VI

Six

29

XXIX

Twenty-nine

7

VII

Seven

30

XXX

Thirty

8

VIII

Eight

40

XL

Forty

9

IX

Nine

50

L

Fifty

10

X

Ten

60

LX

Sixty

11

XI

Eleven

70

LXX

Seventy

12

XII

Twelve

80

LXXX

Eighty

13

XIII

Thirteen

90

XC

Ninety

14

XIV

Fourteen

100

C

One Hundred

15

XV

Fifteen

200

CC

Two Hundred

16

XVI

Sixteen

300

CCC

Three Hundred

17

XVII Seventeen

400

CD

Four Hundred

18

XVIII Eighteen

500

D

Five Hundred

19

XIX

Nineteen

600

DC

Six Hundred

20

XX

Twenty

700

DCC

Seven Hundred

21

XXI

Twenty-one

800

DCCC

Eight Hundred

22

XXII Twenty-two

900

CM

Nine Hundred

23

XXIII Twenty-three

1000 M

© Stevan Krajnjan

One Thousand 1000 Quick Writing Ideas

www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

21

Name: _________________________________ One of the best ways of improving your vocabulary is by looking up the meanings of new and unfamiliar words. In the space below, record each new word and its most common dictionary meaning and sentence use.

My New Word

Dictionary Definition

Sentence Use

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

22

Most OFTEN USED WORDS 1.

A

26. Has

51. My

76. These

2.

After

27. Have

52. No

77. They

3.

All

28. He

53. Not

78. This

4.

An

29. Her

54. Now

79. Time

5.

And

30. Him

55. Of

80. To

6.

Any

31. His

56. On

81. Two

7.

Are

32. How

57. One

82. Up

8.

As

33. I

58. Only

83. Use

9.

At

34. If

59. Or

84. Very

10. Be

35. In

60. Other

85. Was

11. Been

36. Into

61. Out

86. Water

12. But

37. Is

62. Over

87. Way

13. By

38. It

63. People

88. We

14. Called

39. Its

64. Said

89. Were

15. Can

40. Just

65. See

90. What

16. Could

41. Know

66. She

91. When

17. Did

42. Like

67. So

92. Where

18. Do

43. Little

68. Some

93. Which

19. Down

44. Long

69. Than

94. Who

20. Each

45. Made

70. That

95. Will

21. Find

46. Make

71. The

96. With

22. First

47. Many

72. Their

97. Words

23. For

48. May

73. Them

98. Would

24. From

49. More

74. Then

99. Yes

25. Had

50. Most

75. There

100. You

© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

23

Most OFTEN USED WORDS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50.

A After Again Air All Along Also Always An And Another Any Are Around As Asked At Awake Await Back Be Because Been Below Big Both But Buy By Called Came Can Children Come Could Day Did Different Do Does Don’t Door Down Each Even Every Few Find First Food

51. For 52. Form 53. Found 54. From 55. Get 56. Give 57. Go 58. Going 59. Good 60. Great 61. Had 62. Has 63. Have 64. He 65. Help 66. Her 67. Here 68. Him 69. His 70. Home 71. House 72. How 73. If 74. Important 75. In 76. Into 77. Is 78. Isn’t 79. It 80. Its 81. Just 82. Keep 83. Know 84. Large 85. Last 86. Left 87. Like 88. Line 89. Little 90. Look 91. Love 92. Made 93. Make 94. Man 95. Many 96. May 97. Me 98. Men 99. Might 100. More

101. 102. 103. 104. 105. 106. 107. 108. 109. 110. 111. 112. 113. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118. 119. 120. 121. 122. 123. 124. 125. 126. 127. 128. 129. 130. 131. 132. 133. 134. 135. 136. 137. 138. 139. 140. 141. 142. 143. 144. 145. 146. 147. 148. 149. 150.

Most Much Must My Name Never New Next No Not Now Number Of Off Often Old On One Only Or Other Our Out Over Own Part People Place Put Read Right Said Same Saw Say School See Set She Should Show Small So Some Something Sound Still Such Take Tell

© Stevan Krajnjan

151. 152. 153. 154. 155. 156. 157. 158. 159. 160. 161. 162. 163. 164. 165. 166. 167. 168. 169. 170. 171. 172. 173. 174. 175. 176. 177. 178. 179. 180. 181. 182. 183. 184. 185. 186. 187. 188. 189. 190. 191. 192. 193. 194. 195. 196. 197. 198. 199. 200.

Than That The Their Them Then There These They Think T his Those Thought Three Through Time To Together Too Two Under Until Up Us Use Very Want Was Water Way We Well Went Were What When Where Which While Who Why Will With Words Work World Would Write Yes You

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

24

Most OFTEN USED WORDS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34. 35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60.

A Able Above Add After Again Against Ago Air All Almost Along Also Always An And Animal Another Answer Any Are Around As Asked At Away Back Be Because Become Been Before Began Behind Being Below Better Between Big Black Body Book Both Boy Brought But Buy By Called Came Can Cannot Car Change Children City Close Cold Come Could

61. 62. 63. 64. 65. 66. 67. 68. 69. 70. 71. 72. 73. 74. 75. 76. 77. 78. 79. 80. 81. 82. 83. 84. 85. 86. 87. 88. 89. 90. 91. 92. 93. 94. 95. 96. 97. 98. 99. 100. 101. 102. 103. 104. 105. 106. 107. 108. 109. 110. 111. 112. 113. 114. 115. 116. 117. 118. 119. 120.

Cut Day Did Didn’t Different Do Does Dog Done Don’t Door Down Draw Each Early Earth Eat End Enough Even Ever Every Family Far Father Feet Few Find First Five Food For Found Four From Front Gave Get Give Go Going Good Got Great Grow Had Half Hand Hard Has Have He Head Hear Heard Help Her Here High Him

121. 122. 123. 124. 125. 126. 127. 128. 129. 130. 131. 132. 133. 134. 135. 136. 137. 138. 139. 140. 141. 142. 143. 144. 145. 146. 147. 148. 149. 150. 151. 152. 153. 154. 155. 156. 157. 158. 159. 160. 161. 162. 163. 164. 165. 166. 167. 168. 169. 170. 171. 172. 173. 174. 175. 176. 177. 178. 179. 180.

His Home House How I’m If In Inside Into Is Isn’t Its It’s I’ll Just Keep Kind Knew Know Large Last Later Learn Learned Left Less Let Letter Life Light Like Little Live Lived Look Love Made Make Man Many May Me Men Might Money More Most Mother Move Much Must My Name Need Never New Next No Not Nothing

© Stevan Krajnjan

181. 182. 183. 184. 185. 186. 187. 188. 189. 190. 191. 192. 193. 194. 195. 196. 197. 198. 199. 200. 201. 202. 203. 204. 205. 206. 207. 208. 209. 210. 211. 212. 213. 214. 215. 216. 217. 218. 219. 220. 221. 222. 223. 224. 225. 226. 227. 228. 229. 230. 231. 232. 233. 234. 235. 236. 237. 238. 239. 240.

Now Of Off On One Only Open Or Other Our Out Over Own Page People Picture Play Place Point Put Read Really Remember Right Room Run Said Same Saw Say School See Seen Sentence She Short Should Side Since Small Snow So Some Something Soon Still Story Study Such Sun Sure Table Take Tell Than That The Their Them Then

241. 242. 243. 244. 245. 246. 247. 248. 249. 250. 251. 252. 253. 254. 255. 256. 257. 258. 259. 260. 261. 262. 263. 264. 265. 266. 267. 268. 269. 270. 271. 272. 273. 274. 275. 276. 277. 278. 279. 280. 281. 282. 283. 284. 285. 286. 287. 288. 289. 290. 291. 292. 293. 294. 295. 296. 297. 298. 299. 300.

There These They Thing Think This Those Though Time To Today Together Told Too Took Top Toward Tree True Try Turn Two Under Until Up Us Use Usually Very Want Was Water Way We Well Went Were What When Where Which While White Who Whole Why Will Wind With Without Words Work World Would Write Year Yet Yes You Young

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Contractions are created by “squeezing” or “shortening” two words into one. When this happens, one or more letters are removed and replaced by an apostrophe. Use contractions in informal writing.

Contraction

Derived from

Contraction

Derived from

doesn’t

does not

she’s

she is; she has

don’t

do not

shouldn’t

should not

hadn’t

had not

that’s

that is

hasn’t

has not

they’d

they would, they had

haven’t

have not

they’ll

they will

he’d

he would; he had

they’re

they are

here’s

here is

they’ve

they have

I’ll

I will

you’d

you would, you had

I’m

I am

you’ll

you will

I’ve

I have

you’re

you are

isn’t

is not

you’ve

you have

it’ll

it will

we’d

we would, we had

it’s

it is; it has

we’ve

we have

let’s

let us

where’s

where is

mustn’t

must not

who’s

who is

o’clock

Of the clock

wouldn’t

would not

she’d

she would, she had

won’t

will not

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QUOTATION MARK Quotation marks are most commonly used to enclose speaker’s exact words, and to set apart words that are discussed. EXAMPLE: a) Our teacher then asked, “Would you like to go outside today?” (direct quotation) b) The word “thunderstorm” often brings fear among the very young in our group.

COLON A colon introduces a list, a direct quotation, and the end portion of a sentence that is an explanation. It is used after an introductory classification, after the salutation in a formal letter and between numbers in time. EXAMPLE: a) The following items were bought at the pharmacy: pop, newspaper, and a bottle of hair shampoo. b) I learned the following: I was too old and run down to compete. c) He immediately replied by saying: “I am completely innocent.” d) Her actions made me think of one thing: revenge! e) Dear Lucas: e) Being out in the sun made me think of only one thing: water! f) 3:30 PM

APOSTROPHE An apostrophe is used to show ownership (possessives—singular and plural), period of time and a sum of money. It also acts as a place holder for a missing letter. In addition, it is used to construct a contraction. EXAMPLE: a) Laura’s tennis racquet b) today’s proverb d) three dollar’s worth of sunflower seeds b) anyone’s guess e) don’t, can’t

SEMICOLON A semicolon is used to expand or lengthen an original thought and separate clauses in a written sentence. EXAMPLE: a) My latest attempt to cross the ocean failed; it was a total disaster indeed! b) The excitement was steadily building; I began to run as I kept my eyes on the road.

PERIOD, EXCLAMATION, QUESTION MARK All correctly written sentences end with either a period, exclamation mark or a question mark. A period is used at the end of a normal sentence. It is similarly written at the end of abbreviations, initials and as a decimal point. Use an exclamation mark to mark the end of sentences in which the writer is attempting to express strong feelings. A question mark is used after a direct question and to indicate doubt about the accuracy of something.

COMMA A comma is used to separate a series of phrases, clauses and words in a sentence; in dates; addresses, to set off interruptions/ expressions and interjections, direct address of one person by another and also in writing of letters. EXAMPLE: a) In his bag we found the racquets, the tape, and a can of tennis balls. b) January 1, 2001. c) 134 Sunset Drive, New Village, Australia d) I was excited, nevertheless, I tried not to show emotion. e) Laura, come here! f) Dear Paul, © Stevan Krajnjan

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OFTEN USED

Prefix

Meaning

Example

Prefix

Meaning

a

not

aseptic, asymmetrical

mid

half

midway, middle

ab

away from

abnormal, absent

mini

very small

miniskirt

anti

against

antibiotic, antifreeze

mis

wrong

misspell, misunderstand

auto

self, alone

automatic, automobile

mono

one, single

monotheistic, monologue

bene

good

beneficial, benefit

multi

many

multinational

bi

two, double

bicycle, bicentennial

non

not

nonconformist, nonentity

bio

life

biology, biosphere

over

too much

overrun

cent

hundred

century, centurion

pan

all

pan-American

centi

hundredth

centimeter

para

beside, guard

parallel, parachute

circum

around

circumference

penta

five

pentagon

co

with, together

cooperate

per

throughout

perfect, pervade

com

with

compassion, combine

poly

many

polygon

con

with

connect

port

carry

portage

contra

against

contradict

post

after

postpone, postgraduate

deci

tenth

decimeter

pre

before

prepare, predict

deca

ten

decagon

pro

forward, supporting

progress, propel, profess

dia

through

diagonal, diameter

quad

four

quadrilateral

dis

apart

dislocate, dismantle

re

again, back

reconsider

eco

earth

ecology, ecosystem

semi

half, partly

semidetached semiprivate

equi

equal

equilateral, equilibrium

sub

below, under

submarine, submerge

ex

former

ex-wife, ex-president

super

above

superman, supernatural

hemi

half

hemisphere

tele

far

telephone, television

hyper

above, over

hyperactive

trans

across, over

transport, transplant

il/im

not

incorrect, irresistible

tri

three

triangle, tricycle

in/ir

not

incorrect, irresistible

ultra

beyond

ultrasound, ultra light

inter

between, among

interstate, international

un

not, uncertain

uneducated, unbearable

magni

great, large

magnify, magnificent

under

below

underused

mega

great

mega city, megaphone

uni

one

universal, unicycle

micro

small

microscope

© Stevan Krajnjan

Example

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28

OFTEN USED

ACTIVITY

Use a dictionary to find an example of a word that contains the listed prefixes. Prefix

Meaning

a

Example

Prefix

Meaning

not

mid

half

ab

away from

mini

very small

anti

against

mis

wrong

auto

self, alone

mono

one, single

bene

good

multi

many

bi

two, double

non

not

bio

life

over

too much

cent

hundred

pan

all

centi

hundredth

para

beside, guard

circum

around

penta

five

co

with, together

per

throughout

com

with

poly

many

con

with

port

carry

contra

against

post

after

deci

tenth

pre

before

deca

ten

pro

forward, supporting

dia

through

quad

four

dis

apart

re

again, back

eco

earth

semi

half, partly

equi

equal

sub

below, under

ex

former

super

above

hemi

half

tele

far

hyper

above, over

trans

across, over

il/im

not

tri

three

in/ir

not

ultra

beyond

inter

between, among

un

not, uncertain

magni

great, large

under

below

mega

great

uni

one

micro

small

© Stevan Krajnjan

Example

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OFTEN USED

- able available believable miserable

- ance observance observance instance

reluctantant protestant silent

- ary infirmary honorary imaginary

- ent judgment dependent confident

- ible digestible flexible sensible

- ence indulgence independence silence

- ery slavery pottery lottery

- ory observatory laboratory sensory

- dom freedom kingdom wisdom

- er lecturer manager teacher

- ian comedian electrician politician

- ment attachment disappointment equipment

- ness politeness happiness loneliness

- or creator adjudicator spectator

- ture fixture mixture signature

- ure brochure denture moisture

- ation aviation transportation reservation

- ion communion complexion opinion

- ition intuition competition repetition

- sion abrasion discussion television

- tion election production education

- ious furious mysterious rebellious

- ous furious joyous nervous

- ise expertise exercise

- ize summarize memorize

- less faithless careless

© Stevan Krajnjan

- ant

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Adjective Word that modifies, and describes a noun. Example: The old woman held in her hand a red scarf.

Adverb Word that describes another adverb, verb or adjective. An adverb tells how, why, when, where and in what manner an action takes place. Many adverbs end in –ly. Words such as very, not and always are also adverbs. Example: (The boy ran continuously as his friend patiently followed along on his bike. He always arrives to class late.)

Conjunction Word that joins, connects or links other words. Two types of conjunctions should be noted. Coordinating Conjunction: - connects sentence parts equal in rank, single words, clauses and phrases (and, but, yet, or, nor, for, so, both, not only, either and neither are very common and easily recognizable conjunctions) Example: (Play now but after supper you will need to continue with your studies.) Subordinating Conjunction: - joins two clauses, to make a more complex sentence. The joining word is the one that expresses a relationship between two ideas that are not equal in rank. Some examples are: after, although, as if, as long as, as soon as, because, before, even though, if, once, since, until, that, where, when, while, etc. Example: We played tennis until the night lights were turned off.

Noun Word that names a person, place or a thing. Proper Noun: a word that names specific people, places and things and is capitalized. Example: (Leah, Brampton, Monday, Christmas.) Common Noun: are the words naming general things - Example: (brother, car, girl, bat, pencil, coin)

Pronoun Word used in place of a noun (I, you, he, she, it, we and they) Example: They decided to paint it as soon as we came to help.

Preposition Word that shows how a noun or pronoun relate to another word (into, at, behind, above, before, near, toward, under, and beside) They often indicate position. Example: He threw his racquet at the fence.

Verb Word that shows action or state of being. Example: He ran into the forest because he was scared.. © Stevan Krajnjan

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31

Individual

ASSESSMENT “ At a Glance “ Class: _________________

Student Name

Date

© Stevan Krajnjan

Area of Need

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Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ = Things Evaluated

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

%=

8

9

10

Interesting & effective introduction, relates to the main idea Wrote using paragraph style Command of spelling, punctuation and grammar conventions Depth of thought Logical sequencing of ideas Stays on topic, doesn’t wander Ability to communicate clearly, on purpose Work makes sense Effective use of words Voice Use of the writing process Effective and interesting conclusion Work submitted for evaluation on time AVERAGE:

Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ = Things Evaluated

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

%=

8

9

10

Interesting & effective introduction, relates to the main idea Wrote using paragraph style Command of spelling, punctuation and grammar conventions Depth of thought Logical sequencing of ideas Stays on topic, doesn’t wander Ability to communicate clearly, on purpose Work makes sense Effective use of words Voice Use of the writing process Effective and interesting conclusion Work submitted for evaluation on time AVERAGE: © Stevan Krajnjan

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Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ = Things Evaluated

1

2

3

%= 4

Interesting & effective introduction Wrote using paragraph style Command of spelling, punctuation and grammar conventions Depth of thought Logical sequencing of ideas Stays on topic, doesn’t wander Ability to communicate clearly, on purpose Work makes sense Effective use of words Voice Use of the writing process Effective and interesting conclusion Work submitted for evaluation on time AVERAGE:

Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ = Things Evaluated

1

2

3

%= 4

Interesting & effective introduction Wrote using paragraph style Command of spelling, punctuation and grammar conventions Depth of thought Logical sequencing of ideas Stays on topic, doesn’t wander Ability to communicate clearly, on purpose Work makes sense Effective use of words Voice Use of the writing process Effective and interesting conclusion Work submitted for evaluation on time AVERAGE: © Stevan Krajnjan

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Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ = Things Evaluated

1

2

3

4

%= 5

Interesting & effective introduction Wrote using paragraph style Command of spelling, punctuation and grammar conventions Depth of thought Logical sequencing of ideas Stays on topic, doesn’t wander Ability to communicate clearly, on purpose Work makes sense Effective use of words Voice Use of the writing process Effective and interesting conclusion Work submitted for evaluation on time AVERAGE:

Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ = Things Evaluated

1

2

3

4

%= 5

Interesting & effective introduction Wrote using paragraph style Command of spelling, punctuation and grammar conventions Depth of thought Logical sequencing of ideas Stays on topic, doesn’t wander Ability to communicate clearly, on purpose Work makes sense Effective use of words Voice Use of the writing process Effective and interesting conclusion Work submitted for evaluation on time AVERAGE: © Stevan Krajnjan

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Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ =

%=

Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ =

© Stevan Krajnjan

%=

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

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Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ =

%=

Name: _______________________

Mark = ______ =

© Stevan Krajnjan

%=

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

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TEACHER

Name: Assignment:

Mark:

Areas where you could improve: a) b) c) d) e) Teacher:

Date:

=3=See back for additional information.

Name: Assignment:

Mark:

Areas where you could improve: a) b) c) d) e) Teacher:

Date:

=3=See back for additional information. © Stevan Krajnjan

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Just a brief note to inform you that __________________________________ has not completed the following homework: Subject: Assigned on: Due on: Homework:

Teacher: Date:

Parent Signature:

Homework Not Done ! Just a brief note to inform you that __________________________________ has not completed the following homework: Subject: Assigned on: Due on: Homework:

Teacher: Date:

Parent Signature:

© Stevan Krajnjan

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© Stevan Krajnjan

1000 Quick Writing Ideas www.TimesaversForTeachers.com

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Clarke, G. Spelling Makes Sense. Belmont California: Simon & Schuster, 1988 Fry, E. The New reading Teacher’s Book of Lists. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall Horn, Ernst. A Basic Writing Vocabulary: 10,000 Frequently used Words in Writing. Iowa City: University of Iowa, 1926. Moore, G. (1988). Heath Wordfinder: Lexington: D.C. Heath Thorndike, Edward L., Irvine Lorge. The Teacher’s Word Book of 30,000 Words. New York: Columbia University, 1944. Font Sources: Corel Draw!, Microsoft Publisher 2000, Soft Key, Expert Software. Graphics Sources: Microsoft Publisher 2000

For additional and updated timesaving resource materials please visit:

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