Narrative writing is an important skill for elementary school students to develop, and one effective way to teach this skill is through mentor texts. Mentor texts are books that serve as models for students to learn from and emulate in their own writing. Here are 11 outstanding mentor texts that can help enhance narrative writing skills in elementary school students:
- “The Relatives Came” by Cynthia Rylant – This heartwarming story depicts a family reunion and can inspire students to write about their own family gatherings.
- “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” by Judith Viorst – This funny and relatable book is perfect for teaching students how to write about challenging days and expressing their feelings.
- “The True Story of the Three Little Pigs” by Jon Scieszka – This clever retelling of the classic fairy tale offers a new perspective and teaches students about point of view in storytelling.
- “Lost and Found” by Oliver Jeffers – This touching story about friendship can inspire students to write about their own experiences with friendship and the importance of helping others.
- “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds – This simple yet powerful book encourages students to embrace their creativity and overcome any self-doubt when it comes to storytelling.
- “The Snowy Day” by Ezra Jack Keats – This beloved classic celebrates the joy of winter and can inspire students to write about their own snowy adventures.
- “Stellaluna” by Janell Cannon – This charming tale about a fruit bat can spark students’ imagination to write their own animal stories and explore different perspectives.
- “Coming On Home Soon” by Jacqueline Woodson – This historical fiction book set during World War II can inspire students to write about important moments in history and the impact they have on individuals.
- “Enemy Pie” by Derek Munson – This story about friendship and conflict resolution can teach students valuable lessons about problem-solving and empathy.
- “Mrs. Katz and Tush” by Patricia Polacco – This heartwarming story about an intergenerational friendship can inspire students to write about their own special relationships and the lessons they have learned.
- “The Day the Crayons Quit” by Drew Daywalt – This imaginative story about a box of crayons is perfect for teaching students about voice and perspective in their writing.
By using these outstanding mentor texts, elementary school students can learn valuable writing skills such as character development, plot structure, setting description, and much more. These books serve as excellent examples to inspire and guide students in their narrative writing journey.
Remember, mentor texts are not meant to be copied, but rather to serve as inspiration and models for students to develop their own unique storytelling abilities. Happy writing!
