They may still be pretty young, but fifth graders at Mandalay Elementary School have lots of stories to tell. They recently wrapped up their memoir writing unit by publishing personal narrative pieces. 

Teacher Bridget Montario said her students followed an eight-step writing process that began with the study of mentor texts. They explored several books that served as good examples of authors writing about themselves and telling a personal story. Using this knowledge, students then came up with ideas for memories they wanted to share.

Ms. Montario, noting that students were learning about story themes, said that they were encouraged to pick a moment that was also a learning experience. There was a first draft, writing conferences with the teacher, and an editing and revision process before the stories were finally published, complete with handmade covers.