Writing to Explore: Discovering Adventure in the Research Paper, 3-8

by David Somoza, Peter Lourie

In  Writing to Explore , David and Peter demonstrate how to teach adventure writing, which integrates nonfiction and fiction and motivates students to write with imagination, curiosity, and a hunger to learn everything about their topic. The book starts with a solid foundation in the basics of good setting descriptions, writing atmosphere, and character development. The authors then explore the specific elements of adventure writing—from setting the stage to conducting research; from combining history and geography to effectively utilizing technology. The result is an adventure-based paper that is “rooted in real places, supported by facts, and developed with detailed description of images from real locations.”

 

Teachers will find handouts, sample activities, student writing examples, research sources, and tips to help them create a nonfiction writing program based around the adventure writing model. Research papers don’t have to be boring to read or to write. This book will show you how to get vibrant papers from your students—papers that teach both reader and writer something new.

Genres: Education, Nonfiction

192 pages, Paperback

First published May 24, 2010

Reviews

[JoEllen Mccarthy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I purchased this book after seeing the authors speak about their collaboration. The authors: a fifth grade teacher and the photo journalist, David Somoza joined together to share ways to incorporate more research writing in the classroom. The ideas go beyond the "traditional" research writing - like virutal field trips and much more. Great professional resource for intermediate and middle school teachers.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic ideas for incorporating writing and research into the classroom an authentic way. Can't wait to pitch this idea to my teachers.