How do you use mentor texts to model writing process in elementary?

1 Why use mentor texts?

Mentor texts can make the writing process more concrete and accessible for your students, especially in elementary grades. They can show them how to generate ideas, organize information, craft sentences, choose words, and add voice and flair to their writing. They can also expose them to different genres, formats, and purposes of writing, and help them develop their critical thinking and reading skills. By using mentor texts, you can help your students see writing as a process of discovery, experimentation, and communication.

2 How to select mentor texts?

The first step to using mentor texts is to select ones that are relevant, engaging, and appropriate for your students. You can use a variety of sources, such as books, magazines, websites, blogs, podcasts, or even your own writing. The key is to choose texts that match your learning objectives, your students' interests and needs, and the genre and format of the writing task. You can also look for texts that demonstrate specific skills or techniques that you want your students to learn or practice, such as using dialogue, sensory details, transitions, or figurative language.

5 How to evaluate mentor texts and student writing?

The final step to using mentor texts is to evaluate them and your students' writing, as well as celebrate their progress and achievements. This can be done through self-assessment, peer feedback, rubrics and checklists, portfolios, conferences, and sharing and publishing. The goal is to help your students reflect on their learning process, recognize their strengths and areas for improvement, and set new goals for their future writing. Additionally, you can assist your students in understanding the value and quality of the mentor texts and their own writing, while also providing them with the opportunity to share with a broader audience such as classmates, parents, or online communities.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?