I've found that having them organize their thoughts so they can build on them is to use index cards. First, they think of the main point they want to make. Then they can identify points (statements) to support the main idea. Each point is written on each card. Then their examples, perhaps real life experiences, to elaborate with can be written down. Then, all cards can be laid out on a table and arranged in a logical order in a way that builds. Working with these visuals can help make it all more concrete for them. Some things for writers to ask themselves: How can I begin with a strong sentence that incites curiosity in the reader? What adjectives can be stronger than my first choices? Verbs, etc. What creative similes can I use that entertain the reader and bring the point home? (I was as happy as a cat in a fishery.) What words can I eliminate to tighten it up? How can I wrap it up at the end in a creative, uncommon way? It helps for them to look at good examples of writing to learn from them. It helps, when reading a nonfiction storybook with them, to point out the creative sentences and the ways the writer builds.
