Last week the first grade transitioned from narrative writing into writing teaching books. During this unit, the children think about what it means to be an expert in something and then choose a topic they could teach about. The process includes making a list of supplies needed, the steps necessary to successfully complete the task, writing an invitation, or "hook", that sparks interest for a reader, and adding teaching details in the illustrations. The editing process includes sharing and discussing their books with a partner who checks if anything was left out. Next week the students will have a celebration among the three classrooms to celebrate their "How-to Books". Some examples of our expert books so far include; How to Get Ready for School, How to Groom a Pony, How to Decorate a Christmas Tree, and How to Make Pizza.