Previous Children's Laureates share their top tips for writing a story.
Stories are everywhere, which means that they are for everyone. 500 Words is open to children of all abilities and to help students we reached out to Joseph Coelho for his top tips on writing a 500 Words story.
The most challenging thing for children who want to enter the competition can be knowing where to begin. Watch Joseph's video or play it out in class or at home for some excellent inspiration for writing stories.
My three top tips for kids writing their 500 words stories are – one: get a notebook or piece of paper, carry it with you wherever you go because you never know when ideas are going to hit. Even keep it by your bed at night so if you wake up and have a strange dream you can write down what happened in your dream.
Number two: Observe the world around you. On your way to school and your way back from school notice what people are doing, notice the birds in the trees, the sights and the sounds and smells. Make mental notes of the things in your environment because as writers we are recreating worlds and the more you observe the world around you, the easier it becomes to create a world on the page.
My third top tip is to read. Read lots, read widely. Go to your local library or bookshop. Read your favourite authors, read your favourite poets and get inspired to create your very own fantastic 500 Words story.
Cressida Cowell
Children will certainly be familiar with the award-winning book series and franchise 'How to Train your Dragon', written and illustrated by former Children’s Laureate Cressida Cowell. The series has sold over 11 million books worldwide in 38 different languages.
CBBC's Newsround caught up with the Cressida on World Book Day back in 2018 - check out her fantastic advice for children for finding inspiration for kick-starting their story writing.
Lauren Child
'Charlie and Lola' author and illustrator Lauren Child, takes inspiration from the world and people around her.
Lauren was announced as the tenth Children's Laureate in 2017. The CBeebies animated series of 'Charlie and Lola' has been shown in 34 countries.
To celebrate World Book Day 2019, she spoke with CBBC's Newsround about encouraging children to write about what they are passionate about.
Need more inspiration?
Back to 500 Words
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