Step 1: Turning Students into Writers

Most students hate to write–even if they are good at it. The words essay–paragraph–short response–all have negative connotations. “Ugghhh do we have to write?” is a typical reaction when students are told they will be writing. Can we really control this typical response? Can we really get students to enjoy writing? The answer is YES.


First though–we need to establish what makes writing good with our students. Poll your students–ask them: WHAT MAKES WRITING GOOD? What you will typically get:

  • Good spelling

  • Good grammar

  • Length

  • Using big words

  • Good organization


No wonder our students DREAD writing. It’s a tall order to master all of those areas–especially when they aren’t even the areas that matter the most. What matters most is NOTICEABLE sophistication and skill.


What students need to be taught–the techniques that make their writing shine–techniques that reveal skilled syntax, techniques that show extraordinary diction, and techniques that provide intentional organization.


We accomplish this through narratives. We teach students specific techniques that make their writing so good, that even they notice their skill. We start with GAME CHANGING techniques–the techniques that when we use them–our writing is better. And when we don’t use them–our writing is worse. 


Back in 2008, I accidentally discovered that idiom stories turn students into voracious writers. The PERKS of idiom stories:

  • The stories are short and don’t take up too much of your class time.

  • Idioms make for humorous tales. 

  • Students learn to use the game changers within their stories and recognize their skill.


You work on idiom stories until your students are hooked. Then you transition into narrative writing. (But don’t be surprised if your students beg to write more idiom stories.)


That’s all it takes to turn your students into writers. Then ask them again–What makes writing good? They will tell you: full circle, onomatopoeia, hyperbole, LY Openers, imagery, and so on.


To help you turn your students into LOVERS of writing, I’ve included some resources to get you started.


  1. The Writing on Command Teacher Manual directions and video explanation for starting the idiom stories

  2. A presentation and video explanation of how to use the presentation with your students

  3. The Interchangeable Rubric you can use to grade the idiom stories


Happy writing! (BTW–if you don’t care much to write either–this will make your writing shine too!)

 Ⓒ Sarah Stratton 2025 All Rights Reserved

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