Using Mentor Texts to Spark Creative Writing

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This video serves as an engaging introduction to a creative writing course, framing the learning journey as a quest to join the fictional "Writers Guild." The host, Justin, begins by defining creative writing broadly as any writing involving imagination and self-expression. He then introduces the concept of "mentor texts"—using excerpts from established authors as guides to improve one's own writing techniques. The video uses F. Scott Fitzgerald's *The Great Gatsby* as a primary example to demonstrate how analyzing sentence structure, word choice, and descriptive detail can inform a student's own writing style. Key themes explored include the "writer's mindset," which involves reading not just for enjoyment but for analysis of craft. The video emphasizes the importance of observation, imitation, and reflection in developing a unique voice. It breaks down the process of identifying specific stylistic elements—such as lengthy sentences or unusual vocabulary—and attempting to replicate them to see if they fit the student's personal style. For educators, this video is a valuable tool for launching a creative writing unit or teaching literary analysis. It bridges the gap between reading and writing by showing students exactly how to "read like a writer." The included activity, where the host models writing a scene in the style of Fitzgerald and then invites students to do the same, provides an immediate, low-stakes writing prompt that encourages experimentation with different voices and styles.