What is “low-stakes” writing?

“Low-stakes” writing, also called informal writing or exploratory writing, involves short assignments or exercises that have little to no impact on a student’s course grade. Low-stakes writing:

• Can be individual or collaborative
• Might take place in preparation for, during, or after a class session
• Is “low stakes” with regard to grades, but “high-impact” with regard to student learning

Low-stakes writing offers a means of discovery, questioning, and exploration. It can deepen students’ thinking, analysis, and persuasive skills, offer opportunities for reflection and growth, can build equity into a classroom, and can create connection between students and between students and instructors.