An independent exploration designed to allow learners the chance to experience the steps an author must go throught to publish their own work. Learners will follow a 10-step process taking them from character development all the way through illustrations and publishing. WHAT’S INCLUDED This resource contains: –> A 10-step process for helping learners develop a short story –> 5 pages of graphic organizers STORY I developed this product when my learners who had been writing short stories since Pre K. I found it interesting that many of them had never made it through the full editing process to publishing. As a way to keep it interesting, I designed a character card graphic organizer in the style of a trading card to help learners visualize and develop their main character. From there I built the entire 10-step process which took my class about 3 weeks to complete. IMPLEMENTATION This resource consists of a list of ten steps for teacher implmentation of the writing process. Several optional activities are included as well to differentiate or mix up the time you have. Use the 5 included worksheets and several resources linked in this file to construct a several week writing exploration with your class. POSSIBLE EXTENSIONS Show off those stories! Consider arranging time to read the stories to a younger grade level. Learners will gain practice in reading aloud skills and asking questions.