Predictive writing – the set up

In our final activity for Week 3 we will focus on using film as stimulus for predictive writing. Predictive writing is one of the easiest and most fulfilling activities you can use to engage your pupils when working with film.

Most short films will have a twist – a moment when the narrative suddenly shifts and the unexpected happens, it is this moment that makes predictive writing possible.

Watch this clip from Nightshift. What do you think happens next?

Attached below are three predictive writing templates that you and your pupils can use in class. These have been designed to provide alternatives for groups of different ages and abilities. You can engage in additional activities for predictive writing such as creating storyboards, scripting, or even filming your own ending.

Now, either fill in one of the attached templates or create a paragraph that sums up what you think happens next and add it to the comments below.

Try to complete your paragraph before reading other participants’ contributions! Then read one or two of the others to get a feel for the rich mix of ideas different individuals can come up, whether it’s writing, storyboards, scriptwriting, or film.