Let’s learn from other writers!
Using Mentor Texts to teach
Writing
What is a mentor text?
A mentor text is a written piece used as an example by a student who
is studying the writing process.
Look for three things:
Idea - Create an original idea based on one from the text you read
and see how the writer has developed that idea.
Structure - Organisational structure: how ideas are organised
according to a task, purpose, and audience.
Written Craft - The author’s writing style: word choice and sentence
structure
What you should do?
1. Read it!
(Read like a reader)
2. Analyse it!
(Read like a writer) - Spot ideas for your writing
3. Imitate it!
(Write like the writer) - Find your own value in writing
- adapted from Kelly Gallagher
Types of mentor texts:
1. Idea Mentor Text - help formulate idea(s) for your writing.
2. Structure Mentor Text - a format or pattern that can be copied.
3. Craft Mentor Text - author’s specific skill or a writing trick.