Author Rick Shelton visited U.S. Jones Elementary and conducted a writing workshop with every teacher and student on campus on two separate days. Shelton also presented a model expository writing lesson for students and teachers.

As the author of two books, Hoggle’s Christmas and Write Where You Are, Shelton shared his experiences as a writer with students and helped them build their writing skills.

“Mr. Shelton told us to show people what we are writing about, not just tell them.” Trae Cole said.

Shelton used a topic preselected by teachers that was recently covered in science class. He modeled how to write the first paragraph, then guided students to write the second. Shelton then let each student write a final paragraph for the piece. 

He left the students with two assignments, both from recently covered science and social studies topics. Shelton will return in December to evaluate the writing and do some follow-up activities.  Susanna Bell learned that “you can write in any subject, not just writing.”

Effie Grace Thomas learned to take another look at her work before saying it’s finished.

“When you write, you stop to make sure it makes sense.”

Santana Johnson was encouraged by Shelton’s workshops.

“I learned that anybody can become a great writer not just famous people,” she said.

(This article originally appeared in the Saturday, November 4 print edition of the Demopolis Times.)