I just left teaching(grade 2). In the schools these days the writing instruction is very rushed with not enough modeling. Most of it is copy work or “shared writing.” They are forced to write on very specific topics with little background knowledge. Homeschooling now. My boys don’t like to write but can. I try to find things they like. We keep a gratitude journal. 1-3 things they are thankful for daily. I give a sentence frame. I am thankful for _____. We will do friendly letters soon and write letters to our operation Christmas child. A letter to Santa is another idea. Grocery lists, labeling illustrations is something they love.
I haven't commented lately because I think you've been spot on. I might suggest a different kind of writing. Journalism. Teens who are more experiential may prefer writing about subjects that interest them--people that interest them. Teach them how to reach famous people; form questions that interest both the subject and the audience; edit the experience into a riveting post. You know how to post. Maybe it's time to pass that skill on to your teens--by way of writing.
