Use children's literature to teach writing research by reading literature set in a historical period. Books like "Johnny Tremain," which is set in the months before the beginning of the American Revolution, or "The Witch of Blackbird Pond," which is set in a 17th century Puritan community in Connecticut Colony, are fine examples of the importance of research and contain compelling stories.
Read biographical stories as another way to use children's literature to teach writing research. By reading books like "Ben and Me: An Astonishing Life of Benjamin Franklin as Written by His Good Mouse Amos," by Robert Lawson and "Eleanor," by Barbara Cooney, children can learn how they can use writing research to create moving stories.
Read books of the periods in which the children's literature are set to learn about using children's literature to teach writing research. For example, if children are studying Johnny Tremain, read books about the history of Boston and the American Colonies.
Study the biographies of historical figures when using children's literature to teach writing research. For example, read a biography of Benjamin Franklin to learn how the author, Robert Lawson, used elements of Franklin's life to create "Ben and Me."
Go on field trips where some of the books are set . When reading "Johnny Tremain," for example, exploring places like the Old North Church where the lanterns were hung, or the harbor where the Boston Tea Party took place, can help the children see how knowledge of a place and research can help give life to books.