In this episode of Teaching Made Simple, we’re cutting through the clutter of grammar instruction and zooming in on one powerful tool that is perfect for introducing grammar in context—mentor sentences. Whether you’re tired of grammar worksheets that don’t stick or you’re looking for a better way to integrate grammar into your literacy block, you’re in the right place.

I’m sharing how my own sixth graders challenged the traditional word study approach (yes, they argued against Words Their Way), and how that experience led me to reimagine grammar instruction using mentor sentences. We’ll talk about what they are, why they work, and exactly how to use them—even when time is tight.

What mentor sentences are and how they differ from traditional grammar drills

Why contextual grammar instruction leads to better retention and writing transfer

A simple, 4- or 5-day routine to implement mentor sentences without overwhelm

My personal structure for fitting mentor sentence work into a tight schedule

How to choose mentor sentences from authentic texts you’re already reading

Practical tips for keeping the process sustainable and stress-free

Aliens From Earth: “Over the centuries, people invented ways to go longer distances and to move around faster.”
→ Prepositions, compound sentences

Baseball Saved Us: “Teddy got up, kicked the crate he was sitting on, and walked away.”
→ Commas in a series, conjunctions, complete sentences

🎥 Watch my Mentor Sentence Video 

✍️ Explore The Writing Bridge – My writing course packed with mentor sentence routines, grammar warm-ups, and more

📩 DM me your favorite mentor sentence or grammar win on Instagram @BridgingLiteracy

Tried mentor sentences this week? Loved a strategy I mentioned? Have a favorite text you pull mentor sentences from? I want to hear it! Leave a review or tag me in your stories to keep the momentum going.