Our Favorite Mentor Texts for How-To or Procedural Writing

1. 1. “How to Catch a Star” by Oliver Jeffers

   This charming picture book follows a little boy who is determined to catch a star. It provides clear step-by-step instructions, making it a great mentor text for teaching procedural writing.

1. 2. “How to Make an Apple Pie and See the World” by Marjorie Priceman

   In this delightful book, a young girl embarks on a trip around the world to gather the ingredients for an apple pie. The detailed instructions for making the pie can serve as a fantastic example of procedural writing.

1. 3. “How to Babysit a Grandma” by Jean Reagan

   This heartwarming book humorously outlines the steps for babysitting a grandma. It is a fun and engaging mentor text for teaching procedural writing.

1. 4. “How to Build a Snowman” by Eric Carle

   Eric Carle’s beloved book explains the process of building a snowman in simple and clear steps. It can be used to introduce procedural writing and inspire young writers.

1. 5. “How to Make a Pancake” by Adam Wallace

   This interactive book walks readers through the process of making pancakes. With its detailed instructions and vibrant illustrations, it serves as an excellent mentor text for procedural writing.

1. 6. “How to Wash a Woolly Mammoth” by Michelle Robinson

   Join a young girl as she hilariously explains the steps for washing a woolly mammoth. This imaginative book can spark creativity in procedural writing lessons.

1. 7. “How to Catch a Leprechaun” by Adam Wallace

   This festive book provides clever tips and tricks for catching a leprechaun. It offers an engaging example of procedural writing and encourages imaginative thinking.

1. 8. “How to Code a Sandcastle” by Josh Funk

   Combine coding and procedural writing with this entertaining book. It guides readers through the steps of coding to build a sandcastle, making it an excellent mentor text for both subjects.

These mentor texts for procedural writing provide clear examples and engaging narratives to inspire young writers. Use them to introduce the structure of procedural writing and encourage creativity in your students’ own how-to pieces.