Mini-Lesson

Objective: Students will take pointers from best-selling author Meg Cabot.

1. Start a discussion about narrative writing. Ask: Where do writers get their ideas for stories? Chart students' examples under the heading "How to Get Ideas for Writing."

2. Point out that many authors come up with story ideas by thinking back on their own experiences. Pass out the timeforkids.com interview, Meg Cabot Introduces Readers to Allie Finkle. As students read, have them look for examples of how Meg Cabot integrated memories from her own childhood into her latest book, Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls.

3. After students share their findings, have them make a list of experiences from their own lives that could be incorporated into their writing now or at another time. Challenge students to draft a story inspired by one of these memories. Use the Personal Narrative Idea Organizer to help get them started.