Mentor Texts as a Bridge to Independent Writing: Supporting Young Writers Through Sentence Imitation and Craft Study in the Elementary Classroom

Abstract

This article explores the use of mentor texts as a powerful strategy for developing independent writing skills in elementary students. Drawing on classroom experience and inspired by the sentence composing approach of Don and Jenny Killgallon, the authors demonstrate how mentor texts can be used to support craft study and sentence imitation across a range of writing skills—from prepositional phrases and parallel structure to adjective and adverbial clauses. The article provides practical, developmentally appropriate examples for teaching students how to analyze and mimic writing moves of professional authors. It also illustrates how mentor texts can be used to teach students to craft engaging leads and build narrative depth. Through a gradual release of responsibility, students gain confidence and independence as they begin to internalize sophisticated writing techniques. The authors conclude by emphasizing the importance of thoughtful scaffolding, patience, and high expectations in helping students of all levels grow as confident, capable writers.