Talk for Writing Guide - Complete Storytelling Framework Help your students write confident, well-structured stories using proven Talk for Writing techniques. This comprehensive resource provides everything you need to teach narrative writing using Pie Corbett’s respected three-stage approach: Imitation, Innovation, and Invention. What’s Inside Story Plot Structures (10 Types) - Ready-to-teach narrative templates with clear descriptions and example texts: Wishing Tale Warning Tale Conquering the Monster Finding Tale Journey Tale Losing Tale Rags to Riches Tale of Fear Meeting Tale Character Flaw Tale Six (6) Opening Techniques - Teach students how to hook readers from the first sentence: Character Description Dialogue Question Setting Description with Alliteration Action with Onomatopoeia Statement Story Map Planning Template - Scaffolded worksheet with all five story elements (Opening, Build Up, Problem, Resolution, Conclusion) plus transition word prompts. Vocabulary Support Pages - Word banks organized by purpose: Happy (9 synonyms) Sad (9 synonyms) Said (9 alternatives) Went (9 alternatives) Foundational Framework: Clear explanation of the Talk for Writing three-stage pedagogy to guide your teaching. How to Use Perfect for whole-class instruction, small group work, or individual student reference. Print templates for students to plan before drafting, or display opening techniques and vocabulary supports during writing lessons. Grade Levels: K–5 (adaptable for older struggling writers) File Format: PDF (printable and projectable)

Break the Ice – Fun Icebreaker Activity Pack for Small Groups Help your students build confidence, connection, and communication skills from day one with this ready-to-use icebreaker activity pack. This comprehensive resource provides everything you need to run five (5) engaging group activities designed to break down barriers, spark conversation, and build a positive classroom community. What’s Inside One (1) instruction page for the following five (5) activities, each on seperate pages: Two Truths and a Lie – A classic conversation starter that builds listening and critical thinking skills. Students write two true statements and one false statement about themselves, then challenge their peers to spot the lie. Includes a student worksheet. Would You Rather? – A grid-based discussion game where students roll a dice to select thought-provoking questions and debate their answers. Sparks lively conversation and helps students learn more about each other in a fun, low-pressure way. Tall Tower Challenge – A hands-on team challenge where groups have 15 minutes to build the tallest free-standing structure using only clothes pegs and pop sticks. Promotes creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Full instruction sheet included. The Question Web – Students pass a ball of yarn while answering questions, weaving a physical web that visually represents shared connections and interests. Encourages active listening and builds a sense of community. Instruction sheet included. Desert Island – Each student selects three items they’d bring to a desert island and explains their reasoning. Sparks rich discussion around priorities, creativity, and critical thinking. Fill-in worksheet included. How to Use Perfect for the first day of school, new groups, or any time your class needs an energy reset. Run activities as a whole-class warm-up, in small groups, or as a structured team-building session. Eco-friendly “green options” are included for each activity so you can go paperless if preferred. Grade Levels: K–6 (adaptable for older or mixed-age groups) File Format: PDF (printable and projectable)