In the Classroom: Writing Informational Leads

I’m always excited to share great ideas for teaching nonfiction writing, especially when they involve using one of my books as a mentor text. J

Recently, California kindergarten teacher Jamie Lanham (@MrsJacksonSDGVA) posted this fantastic anchor chart on Twitter. It focuses on how nonfiction writers can “hook their readers” with a fun, informative beginning.

I recognized her example right away. Those are the opening lines of my book Snakes.

And look at what her students produced after discussing the opening. Fantastic! Can you guess the answers to their riddles?