Conventions One of the Six Traits of Effective Writing Developed by the Milwaukee School District

Components of Effective Writing Ideas Organization Voice Word Choice Sentence Fluency and Variety Conventions Presentation

The elements of language that help deliver the message Definition: Definition of Conventions The elements of language that help deliver the message

Elements of Conventions □ The spelling is accurate. □ The punctuation is correct. □ Proper use of capitalization is evident. □ The paragraphing is sound. □ The grammar and usage are handled well. □ Where appropriate, the author manipulates conventions for stylistic effects. rhythm and flow of the language, the sound of word patterns, the way in which the writing plays to the ear - not just the eye. How does it sound when read aloud? That’s the test. Share the “fluency phone” (created using PVC plumbing pipe sections. “Can you hear me now?”

The Concept of Conventions Conventions are the agreed upon rules we operate by when we engage in experiences that involve other people.

Conventions are all around us.

The importance of proper use of conventions Proper use of conventions conveys a message of professionalism to your audience. It shows you made the time and effort to edit your work and get it right. This tells your audience, “You’re worth it!”

Conventions in Environmental Print Why are conventions so important? They can enhance or impede the message.

To share our good ideas with others we must communicate effectively To share our good ideas with others we must communicate effectively. This includes the correct use of the mechanics of writing.

Conventions Use of proper conventions ensures that the message we intend to send is the message our audience receives.

Conventions Change over time Are not necessarily logical Are influenced by culture Adapt to audience and purpose Are contextually bound

Lessons for the Trait of Conventions

Lessons for the Trait of Conventions The most valuable convention lessons occur in context. Use common errors in students’ writing to determine the content of mini lessons. Most conventions are driven by rules that are not “logical”. Help students understand the larger concept of conventions; explain how they adapt and change over time. Rotate class responsibilities as the “Quotation Mark Queen”, the “End Line Punctuation Prince or Princess” and the “Comma Commander”. When students assist other students with their editing, they must explain proper use of the convention. This helps solidify the seemingly random rules of English in a way that is memorable.

Teach students how to use writing tools. Dictionaries Spell check and grammar check Other resources; tools of professional writers

Teach students to plan and problem solve. Students should ask, “What tools will I need to properly edit my work?” “What resources are available to me?” “How much time should I plan for editing in my writing process?” Knowing that editing is done best with “fresh” eyes, it is advisable to wait 48-72 hours between revising and editing.

Conventions Improving all conventions at once can be overwhelming. To keep it manageable, ask students to focus on and edit only one convention at a time.

Conventions in Literature

Conventions in Literature Frog and Toad Are Friends -By: Arnold Lobel

Conventions in Literature Eat, Shoots, and Leaves -By: Lynne Truss

Conventions in Literature Crash -By: Jerry Spinelli

Fever 1793 -By: Laurie Halse Anderson Conventions in Literature Fever 1793 -By: Laurie Halse Anderson “FEVER is a shining example of historic fiction. It draws you in and keeps you riveted throughout. At first, Maggie is a young, normal girl who argues with her mother and wants to cut work to see her crush. But she learns --- too quickly, unfairly --- the value of family, kindness and work. She grows into a heroine to be admired. The novel is so realistic and well-written, you may actually feel the chill of a fever coming on. And that's a sure sign of a really good book.” -Excerpted from a book review by Kate Torpie Conventions enhance the message of this excellent book.

Conventions in Literature Down the Road -By: Alice Schertle

Let’s take a look at student writing. Select a student writing sample. Select an appropriate conventions rubric. Assess the writing. Provide descriptive feedback.

What You Can Do Now Point out the use of correct and effective conventions in literature, textbooks, and environmental print. Discuss why these are examples of quality use of conventions. Take the punctuation out of a piece of writing. Ask students how this one change impacts the message. How are other conventions just as important? Discuss with your colleagues the expectations of students’ independent use of various editing techniques, including various punctuation marks and correct spelling. Where and when do students demonstrate the ability to apply these skills?

Conventions When conventions are used well, they enhance the message.

Remember: