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Have you ever read a piece of literature that was memorable? I am challenging my students to look at literature and then use it as a model. I want them to experiment with different types of writing. I want them to read like a writer, examining print for what works and why.
Lynne Dorfman wrote a text called "Mentor Texts". She is also the author of "Nonfiction Mentor Texts". These two books provide a strong foundation for using literature, especially pictures books as examples of a writers craft.
When students check out books I often tell them, "That one is one of my favorites." And I have many favorites. Here is a short list of some of my favorite professional literature for using mentor texts in the classroom.
Mentor Texts - Dorfman, Lynne
Don't Forget to Share - Mermelstein, Leah
A Place for Wonder - Heard, Georgia
Wondrous Words - Ray, Katie Wood
Notebook Know How - Buckner, Aimee
Nonfiction Matters - Harvey, Stephanie
51 Wacky We-Search Report - Lane, Barry
Poetry Matters - Ralph Fletcher
A Writer's Notebook - Ralph Fletcher