011. Mentor Sentence Made Simple: How to Introduce Grammar in Context

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.

🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

  • 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

✏️ Episode Highlights:

  • The moment my students pushed back on grammar worksheets
  • What makes mentor sentences so powerful for teaching grammar in context
  • My go-to routine: Notice, Label, Revise, Imitate—and how to simplify each step
  • How I’ve structured mentor sentences during a 70-minute literacy block
  • Choosing the right mentor sentences for your classroom goals
  • Tools, tips, and tricks to make your mentor sentence routine stick

📚 Mentor Sentence Examples Mentioned:

  • 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

🔗 Resources & Links:

💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:

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.