50 Engaging Writing Prompts #6: Someone I will never forget.

Looking for engaging journal prompts for upper elementary and middle school students? This free printable writing prompt encourages students to reflect on someone they’ll never forget, preserve a meaningful memory, express gratitude, and strengthen their descriptive writing skills through thoughtful journaling.

Reading Time: 5 minutes
Estimated Writing Time: 10-15 minutes

When I was very small, I remember a woman named Marie with long hair who was kind to me. She made such an impression that my middle name is Marie, and I often wear my hair long. 

I also remember a writing teacher from high school. He stopped me on my way into class one day because he noticed I was upset. He took the time to talk to me. I fondly remember how he would pace the classroom, then perch on the radiator, resting his hand on his chin to stroke his beard while he taught.

People can make lasting impressions on our lives. They may encourage us, teach us, make us laugh, or simply help us feel understood. Even after years have passed, we may still vividly remember their words, actions, and how we felt when we were with them.

Think about someone you will never forget. It can be anyone– even someone you only knew for a moment, as I knew Marie. What made this person memorable? How did they affect your life?

Journal Prompt

Describe someone that you will never forget and share a memory that shows why they are important to you. What makes this person special? Why has this memory stayed with you?

Reflection Questions

Remember, these questions are to help you if you are stuck or want to reflect more deeply.  You can answer some, all, or none.

• Who is the person you’ll never forget?

• When and where did you know this person?

• What did the person look and sound like?

• What was their personality like?

• Is there something they often said or did?

• What is one memory you have of them?

• How did this person make you feel?

• Did they teach you an important lesson?

• How did they influence the person you are today?

• Why do you think you will always remember them?

Why Does This Matter?

People in our lives– especially those we remember–  help shape who we become. Their words can influence our actions, and their actions may show us how to treat others. Writing about someone unforgettable helps us to recognize the influence they have had on our lives. It allows us to preserve their memory. It can lead us to express gratitude. We can reflect on the lesson we may carry for the rest of our lives.

Vocabulary Word

Influence (noun or verb)

Definition: The power to affect someone’s thoughts, feelings, choices, or actions

Example: My grandmother’s courage and kindness have had a lasting influence on how I treat other people.

Challenge: Use influence somewhere in your writing.

Writing Challenge: Bring a Person to Life

Instead of writing only general statements, use specific details that allow readers to picture a person.

Let’s use the example of my teacher from the beginning.

Instead of:  “He was my favorite teacher. I liked the way he taught the class.”

Try: “He noticed I was upset, and he took the time to talk to me. He would pace the front of the classroom, then perch on the radiator, resting his hand on his chin to stroke his beard while he taught.”

The second example helps readers picture the teacher by describing his actions and how he might have looked. It begins to reveal why the person is unforgettable

As you write, include details about where you were, what happened, what was said, and how you felt. Focus on the person’s words, choices, habits, and actions. 

Inspirational Quote

Can you think of an example of something you have enjoyed so deeply that you will never lose it?

Bonus Writing Challenge

Write about two more people that mean a great deal to you. Follow this writing plan to keep your writing organized:

Beginning: Introduce the person and explain how you know them.

Middle: Describe the person and tell a story of a meaningful moment you shared.

End: Reflect on why you will never forget them and how they influenced your life.

Try not to rely on words such as good, nice, or special.  Bring the person alive by showing their words, choices, habits, and actions.

Keep Writing!
The people who shape our lives deserve a place in the stories we tell.