The 6 + 1 Traits of Writing
I will use the ideas of the 6 +1 Traits of Writing to teach writing throughout the year. I will teach each trait separately and then expect students to use the ones I have taught when they are writing.
1. Ideas:
What is my message?
Is my message clear?
Did I try hard to make it interesting?
Do I have enough information?
2. Word Choice:
Have I used some words that I really love?
Can my reader tell what my words mean?
Have I used any NEW words, or interesting words?
Did I try not to repeat words too many times?
Have I used the best words I can think of?
3. Sentence Fluency:
Did I use sentences?
Do my sentences begin in different ways?
Did I use some long and some short sentences?
Does my writing sound smooth as I listen to it?
4. Conventions:
Did I leave spaces between words?
Did I use a title?
Did I use periods or question marks?
Did I use capital letters in the right places?
Is it easy to read my spelling?
Could another person read my paper?
5. Organization:
How does my paper begin?
Did I tell things in order?
Did I use sequence words like, first, then, next, after that…?
Does everything link to my topic?
How does my paper end? Do I have an ending?
6. Voice:
Do I really like this piece of writing?
Does this writing sound like me?
How do I want my readers to feel?
Does my writing convey feeling to the reader?
7. Presentation:
Is my writing neatly done?
Have I added extra detail to make it look "professional"?
Is my title neatly underlined?
Have I used the margins and lines neatly and appropriately?