6 +1 Traits

In your groups right now, brainstorm on a piece of paper –

what makes a paper good? What must it have in it to make it a

powerful piece?

(Think about what your past teachers have stated about this

topic!)

FIRST TRAIT IS IDEAS…

IDEAS: A CLEAR POINT, MESSAGE, THEME, OR STORYLINE, BACKED BY IMPORTANT CHOSEN DETAILS AND SUPPORTIVE INFORMATION.

SELECT AN IDEANARROW THE IDEA (FOCUS)ELABORATE ON THE IDEA

(DEVELOPMENT) DISCOVER THE BEST

INFORMATION TO DISCUSS ON MAIN IDEA (DETAILS)

“WHEN THE IDEAS ARE STRONG, THE OVERALL MESSAGE IS CLEAR ” (CULHAM, PG. 35).

My beginning catches the reader’s attention and knows what I will be discussing

Transitions effectively connect my ideasThe order is logical and effective

(chronological)My title is connected to the theme of the

writing I’ve chosen an appropriate conclusion

Next trait is Voice…

Chosen compelling ideas and organization to match my purpose

My topic, ideas, and words help me connect with my reader

My reader will know more about me from my writing

You can tell I am committed to the topic and I will leave you with something to think about

My personality shows through

Next trait is Word Choice…

Helps the reader understand my writing by choosing the most exact words

Sometimes use unusual words or phrases (try to stretch my vocabulary at times!)

My words are suitable for my audience and purpose

Use precise words to make my meaning clear

Next Trait is Sentence Fluency…

Use a variety of sentence lengths I use different beginnings for sentences I connect my sentences and my writing

has rhythm

Next trait is Conventions…

My spelling, capitalization, and punctuation are accurate

Use grammar appropriately to help the reader understand

Use paragraphs to group ideas and details together

Next triat is Presentation…

Handwriting is neat and easy to read (or type it)

Use different fonts and type sizes for headings

Use a title and headings are in the right places

Out pictures and maps where they belong with the text (if applicable)

① IDEAS② Organization③ Voice④ Word Choice⑤ Sentence Fluency⑥ Conventions⑦ Presentation

Title one side “Strengths” Title the other side with “Weaknesses” Then, fill in your strengths and

weaknesses when it come to writing For example, if I tend not to be a great

speller, I can state in the “Weakness” section, that I struggle with spelling.

Make sure you write your name down before we collect it. Thanks!!!