This a short and fun assignment to get your students writing creatively. Many students complain that they can’t think of what to write about. Here they can choose their own prompt through simply choosing songs they enjoy.
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Music and songs can be a useful source of inspiration for your writing. Usually soundtracks are developed to accompany another work, such as a movie. However, in this assignment we will reverse that! We will be developing a soundtrack first, then creating a short story inspired by our soundtrack.
- Step One: Choose five of your favorite songs and create a playlist.
- Step Two: Arrange the songs so that each song may serve as a soundtrack to your story.
- Step Three: Compose a creative piece that takes your reader through a journey that is inspired by the songs you chose.
Length Requirement: 400-500 words
Genre: You may choose to write a short story, write a poem, or write an epistolary piece (letters/diary format). Approach the assignment however you would like, as long as it is creative!
Note: Please include either a screenshot of the playlist or a list of the songs you chose to accompany your story.
EXAMPLE:
The Other Side
By Austin Vincent
I stared at the sign on the fence ahead of me that read “None Shall Pass.” I knew I had to get to the other side of town before it got dark, and the sun was about to set. I needed to take the shortcut; I needed to hop the fence. I had a birthday party to get to, and I wasn’t missing it for the world.
I pulled the brim of my cap down low and got myself ready. I took a few steps toward the fence and leapt with vigor. My hand clenched the chain link as I hoisted myself up and over the fence. As I topped the fenced and jumped down to the ground, I twisted my ankle. I bent down to check and make sure nothing was broken. Luckily, it was just a light sprain. But as I looked back up, I realized why that sign had been posted on the fence. In front of me was a giant Rottweiler with a spiked collar and everything. I was caught in between a fence I couldn’t climb and certain death that I could not run from.
I thought I was done for. Until I realized I might have a trick up my sleeve, or in my pocket rather. . .
I slowly reached down into my pocket and pulled out a Slim Jim stick I had picked up earlier. The dog switched its gaze from me to the jerky. I waved it back and forth and the dogs eyes followed. I sure hope this works. I threw the jerky as far as I could, and the dog almost fell he took off running so fast. I limped away as fast as I could toward the other side of town.
I ran through alleys past garbage cans and dumpsters weaving between the buildings of the city. The sun was beginning to set, and the alley cats were laying down and sleeping on the black top. I could see it in the distance. I made it. As I walked through the doors of the Burger King, I saw all my friends posted up in the back. The man of the hour, Chuck, said to me, “Man, you look rough.” I smiled and reached for a signature Burger Kind cardboard crown. I turned to Chuck and replied, “Huh, you think I look good now. . . you should see me in a crown!”
Writing With Music 