Austin showed me a test he had taken in school and we reviewed the answers that challenged him. Receptive to learning, Austin welcomed the test-taking and reading comprehension strategies afforded him. We then discussed informative writing. We reviewed creating an essay format and the steps to develop and flush out ideas. I explained that informational prompts ask us to inform the reader by explaining, comparing and contrasting, or giving information of a descriptive nature, and that we can give information using facts, details, explanations, and anecdotes. Austin was reminded to explain the information objectively without taking a position. I went on to explain that the first paragraph introduces the general topic and the specific issue of the essay about which he chooses to write. He should then write three paragraphs about three good ideas, with the last paragraph summarizing the essay and giving the reader something to think about and wanting more. Austin was asked to brainstorm ideas on a topic and to get creative in his presentation to make it interesting and grab the readers attention. He was reminded not to persuade but to inform the reader. He mentioned that he did very well on his persuasive essay in class but stated that he could benefit from help with informational essay writing, summarizing, and elaborating. An informational worksheet may assist him in organizing his thoughts and reminding him to elaborate. I hope to help Austin organize the big ideas in different possible ways, such as chronological (as in a biography), topic-by-topic, from most important to least or least important to most, or by similarities then differences; the organization in this respect is up to him. I concluded the session encouraging Austin to add descriptions, explanations, and examples that correspond to his big idea and not to rush the task. Austin read me one of the narrative essays he wrote in school and for which he received an excellent grade. I commended him on his presentation of ideas, and use of descriptive vocabulary and figurative language.