Write an essay

What can we use if we don't have paper, a pencil, or an eraser?

If you don't have paper use a notebook page or printer paper, if you don't have a pencil use a pen or crayon, and if you don't have an eraser gently cross out mistakes or use correction fluid when you follow the 'gather your paper pencil and eraser' step.

I'm stuck during the five-minute notes or my ideas feel empty—what helps?

Use the three prompts in the instructions—what you do, how it makes you feel, and why you love it—as separate bullet headings, set a timer for five minutes, and ask a family member one quick question to spark more details.

How can I change the activity for younger or older kids?

For younger children shorten the assignment to a one-sentence thesis, one short body paragraph and a picture for the final copy, while older students should expand the five-paragraph outline into longer body paragraphs, add transition sentences, and include one researched fact before writing the final draft.

How can we improve or personalize the essay before sharing it on DIY.org?

Add a small photo or drawing of your hobby to the neat final copy, ask your family member for one written suggestion during the 'practice reading your final essay aloud' step, and record a short video of you reading the final essay to upload with your post on DIY.org.