Using Mentor Texts and AI to Transform Grammar Instruction: Part II

Patty McGee

| May 23, 2025

Grammar worksheets ask, "Can you spot it?" Mini-inquiries ask, "Can you understand it?" However, the imitation and innovation experience asks the most important question: "Can you create with it?"

Let's help students answer with a resounding "Yes!"

Imitation and Innovation Method

In grammar instruction, "imitation" is the practice of copying or repeating a grammatical structure to mimic a model sentence or pattern. "Innovation" is the active creation of new sentences or variations using the grammatical concept, demonstrating a deeper understanding through the application of the rule in novel ways, going beyond simple copying.

Here is how imitation and innovation may unfold:

Select a portion of the mentor text that exemplifies the grammar concept you're teaching. If you are using the mentor text from this article, you may want to focus on varying sentence structure or building paragraphs.
Together with students, analyze the sentence structures or grammar patterns used by the author.
Create a template based on the mentor text's grammatical framework. For example, if teaching complex sentences using When a tree is attacked by insects, it releases airborne chemical compounds to warn nearby trees of danger, you might extract the pattern: Subordinating conjunction: simple sentence: comma: simple sentence.
Students then use this template to collaboratively write their own sentences, following the same grammatical structure but with original content.
As they gain confidence, encourage them to innovate beyond the template while maintaining correct grammar usage.

This method allows students to practice applying grammar concepts directly, using the mentor text as scaffolding that can gradually be removed as their skills develop. (For even more, check out the Patterns of Power collection by Jeff Anderson and Whitney La Rocca.)

A Few Friendly Tips

After some trial and error, here's what I've learned:

Mentor texts do not work well when they are cold reads. Read the text aloud a few times so that students are able to do the work of a reader through understanding the content. Once the reading work is out of the way, it is easier to study how grammar is used.
Take it slow – don't try to tackle too many grammar concepts at once. It's like eating a delicious meal; you want to savor each bite.
Choose texts that speak to your students' hearts. If the content feels relevant to their lives, they'll be much more invested in exploring the grammar.
Remember that mentor texts are partners in grammar instruction, not replacements. We still need to explicitly demonstrate how to use grammar, but now we're giving context to why grammar matters.

Your Turn: Transform Your Grammar Instruction Today

Ready to revolutionize your grammar instruction? Take these three simple steps:

Commit to trying just one mentor text lesson in the next two weeks.
Share this post with a colleague who might be interested in trying this, too. Compare notes.
Remember, every grammar lesson is an opportunity to empower writers.

I'd love to hear about your journey with mentor texts!

Patty McGee is a nationally recognized literacy consultant, speaker, and educator with a passion for transforming classrooms into spaces where language and learning come alive. With decades of experience as a teacher, coach, and advocate for delightful literacy practices, Patty has worked alongside educators across the country, partnering to unlock the full potential of their students through innovative and practical teaching strategies. Not Your Granny’s Grammar is her third book. Connect with Patty at www.pattymcgee.org.