Author Inspires at MPES

In mid December, noted author Laurence Pringle visited and inspired the students at Meadow Pond Elementary School. Mr. Pringle has published over 100 children’s books, most of which are non-fiction and animal related. During his two-day visit, he shared his stories and expertise with the students.

On the first day, Mr. Pringle worked with each grade level on a rotating basis. He discussed his books, answered questions and inspired the young authors. During the second day, he held writing workshops in the multipurpose room with each fourth and fifth grade class.  The students listened to the esteemed author as he detailed methods that can improve writing. He advised them to avoid “dump truck writing.”

“Don’t just dump all the facts and information. You want to zoom in on specifics that would be fun for the reader to know,” he recommended. “Make the reader eager to keep reading.”

After discussing subject choices, the author asked the students to spend five minutes writing two to three lead sentences of a non-fiction piece. Students volunteered to share their sentences and Mr. Pringle offered them honest, helpful suggestions.

The six-member Meadow Pond Compact Team arranged for Mr. Pringle’s visit, which was generously funded by the PTA. Teaching assistant and team member Patty Trapasso explained that this program focused on Common Core non-fiction writing. It provided an excellent opportunity for students to interface with an established author who was willing to mentor and share important insight.

The Compact Team is actively seeking new parent members. If interested, please contact them via the school website. For more information about the life and works of Laurence Pringle, visit: www.laurencepringle.com.