Writing Prompts about Respect for Building Better Classrooms— In Aretha Franklin’s words, RESPECT. It’s the magic ingredient for a thriving classroom. It creates a safe space where everyone feels valued, heard, and able to learn. But…
Building a culture of respect isn’t always easy.
So then, how do we translate this crucial concept into actions and behaviors that make our classrooms, and even the world, a better place?
By writing about it of course. Yes!
Here are seventeen writing prompts about respect designed to spark critical thinking, empathy, and creativity in K-12 students. (Bonus! This list of prompts can be adapted for teachers, too.)
Use these prompts as morning work, writing assignments, journaling prompts, or even springboards for engaging in SEL (Social Emotional Learning) activities. They’re a perfect addition to your character education curriculum, especially at the beginning of the school year.
Let’s get to that list of writing prompts about respect. Enjoy!
17 Writing Prompts About Respect
- Imagine you can walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. Choose a character from a book, movie, video game, or your own life who seems disrespectful. Write a story from their perspective, exploring their motivations and challenges. How might understanding their experiences help you understand empathy and respect?
- Recall a situation where you witnessed or experienced disrespect on a social media platform such as Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Now, rewrite the story with a focus on how the conflict could have been resolved respectfully. What could have been said or done differently?
- Respect isn’t just about words – it’s about actions, too! Create a poster depicting different ways to show respect through body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Use this as a visual reminder for the whole class.
- Our classrooms can be likened to fabric woven from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Write a poem or short story celebrating the beauty of diversity and how respect allows everyone to shine.
- Words have power; with persuasive writing, we can communicate our opinions without disrespecting anyone. Research and discuss the importance of using respectful language avoiding stereotypes and hurtful terms, before having a group discussion on the same topic.
- Imagine a newsletter promoting cultural understanding and respect in a globalized world. Include interviews with classmates from different backgrounds, highlighting their traditions and perspectives, including what good character means to each one.
- Respect isn’t confined to the classroom – it’s a core component of good citizenship. Write a persuasive essay outlining your vision for a more respectful school community.
- As responsible citizens, we must also respect the planet. Design a group bulletin board display showcasing ways to show respect for the environment through conservation and sustainable practices.
- The internet can be a fantastic tool, but disrespect can run rampant online. Write a short story about the dangers of cyberbullying and the importance of respectful online behavior.
- Disagreement doesn’t have to lead to disrespect. Write a debate script where two characters with opposing viewpoints present their arguments respectfully and attempt to find common ground through effective communication.
- Research a respected person in history, known for their good behavior towards others. Compose a biography highlighting their actions, their impact, and how young people can learn from their character traits.
- Pair up with a good friend and interview teenagers across campus to ask what respect means to them.
- Create your own superhero whose superpower is respect! Write a short story about how they use their power to create a positive impact in your school or neighborhood.
- Compose a short, catchy rhyme or song promoting respectful behavior in the classroom.
- Design a respectful playground layout outlining different zones designated for specific activities (quiet reading, active games, etc.) and how respectfulness plays a role in each zone.
- Research the power of positive affirmations and how they can impact self-esteem and behavior. Write a series of positive affirmations focusing on respect for oneself and others.
- Imagine playing your favorite sport, and witnessing someone being disrespectful. What happens if you don’t intervene? Write a story exploring the concept of bystander intervention and the power of speaking up for what’s right.
I hope you enjoyed this list of writing prompts about respect.
More Journal Prompt Ideas & Writing Resources for You
- Character Building Activities for Kids
- Prompts by grade level:
- 30 Life Skills Journal Prompts for Students
A Few Closing Thoughts
By incorporating these writing prompts about respect — and some activities too — into your curriculum, you can empower your students to become not just respectful learners but also respectful citizens who contribute to a more positive and inclusive world.
Use these prompts in your lesson plan or simply share them with your students. I have no doubt you’ll be very glad you did.
Until next time, keep on writing…
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Sincerely,
Jill
journalbuddies.com
creator and curator
PS Check out these 7 Activities for teaching respect in the classroom!
