WRITE! The more you write, the better you write. My stories and poems in second grade were just elementary drivel, but as I matured, so did my writing – because I wrote all the time. And it still is maturing, and it will always be, because writing is a craft no one can perfect. Besides just writing for school projects and assignments, there are multiple ways to write more.
Ø Write letters. It doesn’t matter who they’re to, be it a family member, friend, or pen pal.
Ø Write in a journal. Guys, this is not just for girls – journals are for you to record whatever you wish, be it family vacations, what happened that day, feelings, or a journal full of your writings. Journals are a great way to become better acquainted with human thoughts and feelings, and you never know what story or poem ideas you might get from things in your own life.
Ø Start or be part of a class/school/church/neighborhood newsletter or newspaper. When I was in fifth grade, my teacher suggested that I start a class newspaper. It was called The Fifth Grade Flyer by suggestion, and I had other “staff members.” It’s really useful in learning how to format things on Microsoft Word. So the next year, I wanted to have another one, because my class had really enjoyed it the last year. This time it was The Sixth Grade Zone. The next year, as a 7th grader, I could join the middle school newsletter, and so I did – I was the only girl of four boys, two of whom were 8th graders, until I asked a friend to join later on. But I was basically in charge of that paper, because of previous experience. So I added two more papers in the last two years of middle school: The Middle School Up Date and The [Middle School] Voice. It was a great experience and we had a lot of fun times.
Ø Submit your writing to magazines. I have done this multiple times and have had two things published, including an article in a local newspaper. I have had writing rejected, too, but I haven’t let that stop me – and you do the same!! Don’t be discouraged if a magazine doesn’t take your work – try and try again! Make sure you read their guidelines and submit WHAT they want and HOW they want it. I would also suggest either reading accepted stories on their website or order a back issue, so you have some idea what kind of writing they look for. I have a page on this blog of websites where you can find writing guidelines to magazines that kids and teens can submit to. I would encourage you to try this, as it gives good experience and is very rewarding if it is accepted.
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