Based Upon: 6+1 Traits of Writing by Ruth Culham, Scholastic, 2003
IDEAS:My Message
5: It all makes sense. My reader will learn a lot. It's really clear. Good,
juicy details!
-topic is narrow and manageable
-relevant, quality details give important information
-accurate details present that support main idea
-any questions are anticipated and answered
ORGANIZATION: From Beginning to End
5: I know where I'm going. I see just how all the parts fit together. The
ending really works!
-introduction draws reader in and conclusion leaves reader with a sense of
closure
-thoughtful transitions clearly show how ideas connect
-details fit where they are placed;sequencing is logical and effective
-title (if requested)is original and captures the central theme
-organization flows smoothly; choice of structure matches purpose and
audience
VOICE:Putting Myself in My Writing
5: I love this topic! This topic matters to me.
-tone of the writing adds interest and is appropriate for the purpose and
audience
-reader can feel the writer behind the words
-writer reveals self through the piece
-expository or persuasive writing reflects a strong commitment to topic
and shows reader its importance
WORD CHOICE: Playing with Language
5: My words make the message CLEAR. I think this is the BEST way to say it!
-words are specific and accurate& it is easy to understand what the
writer means
-words and phrases linger in reader's mind
-language and phrasing is effective and appropriate for the audience and
purpose
-lively verbs and specific nouns and modifiers are used and add to piece
-choices in language enhance meaning and understanding
-precision is obvious/writer has taken the time to use the right word in
the right spot
-used the topic's vocabulary
SENTENCE FLUENCY: Listening to the Sound
5: My sentences begin in several different ways. My paper is EASY to read out
loud. It has rhythm.
-sentences are constructed in a way that enhances meaning
-sentences vary in length and structure
-purposeful and varied sentence beginnings add to the piece
-connectives between sentences and thoughts show how each relates to, and
builds on the one before it
-it is easy to read aloud
CONVENTIONS: Editing
5: Punctuation, grammar, capitalization, paragraphing, spelling correct.
PRESENTATION: How the Writing Looks on the Page
5: The piece is easy to read. This is a finished copy-I'm PROUD of it!
-handwritten-slant consistent, letters clearly formed, spacing uniform,
text is easy to read
- word-processed-appropriate use of readable fonts
-white space is used to focus reader on text with distractions
-paper:handwritten-clean loose-leaf on correct side
computer-clean printer paper
no tears, smudges, etc.
-if required, correct use of titles, numbers etc.
-effective integration of text, charts, graphs, maps and tables/text and
visuals match/visuals add to text message
