Distance Learning Lesson Plan # 2 - Narrative Writing How to Write a Scary Story

When it comes to getting middle school students to write stories that’ll keep readers or listeners on the edge of their seats, nothing beats a good old-fashioned horror story.

Middle schoolers love coming up with spooky plots and creepy characters, intended to disturb and entertain their audiences.

Best of all, the whole family can get involved with this lesson by having kids gather story ideas for each of these photo cards from parents, siblings, or even friends who are working on the same assignment:

Click on the photo cards to copy and print. *from Scary Story Writing 101

Easy 3-Step Scary Story Narrative Unit

Step 1: Read students a few of your favorite spooky tales if you meet with them online (see How to Write a Scary Story Readers Will Love), or provide them with a link to a story like The Vanishing Hitchhiker by Jan Harold Brunvand so students get a feel for how professional writers toy with readers' emotions.

Step 2: Make a copy of the 4 captioned photo cards and have students brainstorm story ideas for each card with family members and/or friends.

Step 3: Give students the How to Write a Scary Story direction poster and have them follow the directions using their favorite photo prompt on Day 1. Repeat this lesson with another prompt on Day 2. On Day 3, students will complete both stories and label the story elements (i.e. a Character in a Normal Setting is Interrupted, a Something’s Not Right, Realization and an “Uh-Oh” Moment).

Step 4: Read both stories to two people and ask each one to pick a favorite story and explain their selection.  

If you missed Distance Learning Lesson 1 on essay writing, you can read it here.


Here are a few of my favorite products that are incredibly affordable right now:

Argument Writing Bundle 

Scary Story Writing 101  

Full Year Middle School Writing Course  

Browse all of my resources here.



Until next time...be safe...stay committed...and inspire children with who you are.