For Teachers - the “Write” Tool for the Job
Handing a student a blank piece of paper and expecting them to write a paragraph can feel a bit like handing them a spoon and expecting them to build a sandcastle. They might move a bit of sand around, but the spoon isn’t the right tool for the job. At least, it shouldn’t be the only tool. Similarly, students might manage to jot a few ideas down on blank paper, but they likely need a few more tools to turn those ideas into paragraphs. To build a sandcastle, the more tools, the better! Shovels, buckets, sieves, rakes, and watering cans can help turn design ideas into unique 3-dimensional structures. But what tools can we provide to students to help them construct their one-of-a-kind writing projects?
One tool is a template. A well-designed writing template is several tools in one, and can be helpful for any writer, whether it’s the beginner who needs help every step of the way or the more advanced writer who just needs help to get started. A template can serve as a scaffold, providing multiple levels of structure that can support students to build their own masterpieces!
That’s why I created my Descriptive Writing Bundle. This bundle includes 7 unique templates. I designed them for the students in my Creative and Expressive Writing Class who needed more than just prompts—they needed a multitool to help them plan and write their project. Each template offers:
A clear, predictable structure that supports independence.
An idea bank to spark creative thinking.
Sentence starters to support the writing process.
A topic sentence to help get students started.
Space for drawing to encourage creativity.
Each of these elements provides support for all students, even if not all students need them all. I’ve used these templates with a variety of students, including beginner writers, reluctant writers, ELL students, and even students who were already confident and experienced writers. These templates work for everyone!
Why Descriptive Writing Matters
In my year-long writing class, I always start with descriptive writing. Descriptive writing isn’t just about adjectives. It’s also about teaching students to slow down and reflect. To use their senses to notice details. To explore vocabulary. Descriptive writing is foundational for storytelling, persuasive writing, scientific writing, and personal reflection. When students learn to describe with detail, they are learning and practicing how to communicate their perspectives, ideas, and knowledge.
How You Can Use This Bundle
Whether you’re a classroom teacher, homeschool parent, or online writing educator, this bundle is flexible enough to fit your needs:
Use it during writing centers
Assign it as independent practice
Pair it with art activities
Build it into a creative writing unit
Build it into a Science or Social studies unit
Use it to model the writing process
Ready to Give Your Students the “Write” Tool?
If you’re looking for a way to make descriptive writing accessible to a variety of students, check out the bundle in my TpT store.
