These incredible mentor texts are full of sensory language. Your students will love visualizing with these great choices!
This sensory language book list includes the reading levels of some of the titles for your convenience while planning. These are not intended to limit choices. I certainly would not rule out the use of a mentor text because it wasn’t the “correct level.”
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Sensory Language Mentor Texts – Prose
Nightsong by Ari Berk (DRA 24, Reading Level M)
This book is adorable. Chiro is a young bat just learning to find his way around using his “good sense.” It is full of sensory language that appeals to the sense of sight.
The Seashore Book by Charlotte Zolotow (DRA 34, Reading Level O)
A mother uses sensory language in this book to help her son visualize the sea. Students love to visualize right along with him.
Into the Sea by Brenda Z. Guiberson (DRA 34, Reading Level O)
This book is about the life of a sea turtle as she grows and learns in the sea. It is stunning.
Bedhead by Margie Palatini (DRA 38, Reading Level P)
This over-the-top book is highly engaging. The kids love it.
Sensory Language Mentor Texts – Poetry
Hello Ocean by Pam Muñoz Ryan (DRA 30, Reading Level N)
Hello Ocean is the perfect mentor text for introducing sensory language that appeals to ALL FIVE SENSES. There is also a bilingual edition!
Owl Moon by Jane Yolen (DRA 34, Reading Level O)
No list of mentor texts for visualizing is complete without Owl Moon. Sensory language helps readers imagine this boy’s experience as he goes “owling” with his father.
Honey, I Love and Other Love Poems by Eloise Greenfield
This is one of my favorite collections of poetry. The poem “Riding on a Train” is great for visualizing. It lends itself to so many other reading strategies and skills as well, so run and get it if you don’t have a copy already!
The Great Frog Race and Other Poems by Kristine O’Connell George (DRA 38, Reading Level P)
This collection of poems contains imagery, sensory language, and a wide variety of poetic forms. It is just perfect.
Silver Seeds by Paul Paolilli and Dan Brewer
This is a beautiful collection of accessible nature poems that are full of sensory language.
Click Here for 7 Tips for Teaching Visualizing and Sensory Language
