WHET YOUR STUDENTS' APPETITE FOR WRITING WITH FUN "RECIPES" AND EASY-TO-USE TECHNIQUES There comes a point in every teacher's career when we realize that ready-made lesson plans and one-size-fits-all activities aren't sparking students' passion for writing. Just as homemade cookies are better than store-bought, writing lessons that are tailored to students' particular needs and interests are always going to be more engaging. Writing from Scratch: Lesson Plans to Boost Your Classroom Writing Instruction is a "cookbook" for crafting writing lessons that will not only get students writing, but help transform them into writers. Great writing instruction doesn't have to be difficult. In this book, award-winning educator Shannon Anderson shares simple ideas for incorporating writing into any elementary classroom. "Cooking demonstrations" give you step-by-step instructions and examples for using each technique. Flip through to the topics that interest you most and teach students how to: Brainstorm writing topics Add details and dialogue Create settings and characters Write letters, diaries, poems, how-tos, and more Use devices like metaphor and hyperbole Incorporate humor and emotion Edit and revise their work You'll also discover fun creative writing exercises, planning tips, and guidance on setting young writers up for success. Writing from Scratch is a great supplement for elementary teachers ready to cook up great writing lessons.