Elaboration Experts

A series of 15-20 minute small-group intervention lessons designed to help 4th grade students improve their informational writing through elaboration. The sequence moves from subject-specific content (Revolutionary War) to general knowledge topics to solidify the ability to use evidence and explanation starters.

MAMaria Amato

Patriot Prose Elaboration

A set of materials designed for small-group intervention focused on helping 4th-grade students elaborate on their informational writing about Revolutionary War Patriots. The lesson introduces the 'Draft Doctor' technique to expand simple sentences into detailed paragraphs using specific evidence and explanation starters.

Detail Detective Mission

A fast-paced, hands-on intervention lesson where students apply elaboration techniques to familiar, everyday topics like sports, food, and hobbies. Using a 'Detective' theme, students practice matching thin claims to thick evidence and explanations to build engagement and fluency.

Mission Accomplished Patriots

A final capstone lesson for the elaboration intervention. Students return to their Revolutionary War topic to apply 'Draft Doctor' and 'Build-the-Bridge' techniques to their own writing. Includes a hands-on 'Paragraph Puzzle' and a final drafting 'Power-Up' worksheet.