Creative Writing
Creative Writing Magnet (Grades 6–8)
Where Words Inspire Imagination
The Creative Writing Magnet at David A. Boody gives students a space to explore the power of language and bring their ideas to life through writing. Whether crafting poetry, fiction, plays, journalism, or nonfiction, students are encouraged to express themselves freely and discover their unique voice.
In this three-year program, students build confidence in their writing through imaginative lessons, peer collaboration, and opportunities to share their work. A supportive classroom environment helps students overcome writer’s block and find inspiration from a variety of classroom and online resources.
What Will Students Learn?
Grade 6: Exploring Writing & Imagination
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Introduction to creative thinking and writing
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Understanding plot, character development, and setting
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Exploring different genres (fiction, poetry, nonfiction, and more)
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Learning how form and structure shape writing
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Fostering individual voice and ideas through guided writing activities
Grade 7: Strengthening Voice & Style
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Building on foundational skills from 6th grade
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Deepening understanding of genre and form
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Exploring project-based writing and genre-focused units
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Encouraging experimentation with tone, perspective, and purpose
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Introducing free-writing sessions to inspire independence and originality
Grade 8: Mastering Craft & Creative Choice
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Applying accumulated skills to create polished, expressive writing
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Choosing preferred genres and topics within project guidelines
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Emphasis on revision, editing, and publishing-quality work
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Encouraging self-directed learning and deeper creative risk-taking
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Producing final projects that showcase growth, voice, and personal style
Program Highlights
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Writing across multiple genres and forms
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Opportunities to collaborate and share work
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Project-based learning that promotes independence and voice
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Use of mentor texts and visual arts to inspire creativity
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Safe, supportive space for expression and exploration
Partnerships & Student Showcases
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The Metropolitan Museum of Art – exploring connections between visual and written art
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Studio in a School – integrating visual storytelling with creative writing
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Student Showcases – public readings, published collections, and art/writing displays
The Creative Writing Magnet helps students become thoughtful, passionate, and expressive writers ready to share their stories with the world.
Creative Writing Aptitude Test Description
The Creative Writing Talent entrance exam is a traditional paper based exam which includes 60 multiple choice questions worth one point each and one extended response essay worth 40 points. The multiple choice questions cover a variety of topics, including subject/verb agreement, punctuation, reading comprehension, sentence structure, vocabulary, the writing process, and literary elements. The extended response essay is based on a passage that students read during the exam (similar to the NYS ELA Exam).
You will need to bring a few No. 2 (or HB) pencils. Any necessary scrap paper will be provided.