6 + 1 Traits of Writing: Sentence Fluency

What IS Sentence Fluency? Ask yourself: Does each sentence flow smoothly? Is there variety in sentence lengths? Have I varied my sentence beginnings? Is my writing easy to read expressively? Or, does it sound great when read aloud? Read your writing aloud – or have someone else do this for you. If it’s awkward, it needs some revision!

How do we make sure our writing is “fluid” (smooth)? Know what fluent/fluid writing looks/sounds like Read Read aloud – there should be natural pauses (commas, periods), and the writing should flow smoothly Listen to writing read aloud Know common errors, and how to avoid them Practice, practice, practice!

Sentence structure Must have a ______ & a ______! John ran home. I slept. Both have a subject and a predicate, making them complete.

Avoiding Run-on sentences How can we do this? 2 ways: Create two separate sentences. Use a semi-colon, or other punctuation. You may need to add some extra, joining words. Susan wanted to buy a shirt she went to the mall. This is a run-on. How can it be corrected?

Avoiding comma splice errors How can we do this? 3 ways: Create two (or more) separate sentences. Use a semicolon to join the two sentences. Turn the sentence into a compound sentence, using a joining word. Mr. Alexander had supervision in the cold, he put on his winter jacket. How can we correct this?

Look out for the sentence fragments! Aaah! After the party.

Sentence Fluency Definition: sentence fluency is the rhythm and flow of the language, the sound of word patterns, the way in which the writing plays to the ear, not just to the eye. How does it sound when read aloud? That's the test. Fluent writing has cadence, power, rhythm, and movement. It is free of awkward word patterns that slow the reader's progress (such as fragments, run-ons, and comma splice errors). Sentences vary in length, beginnings, structure, and style, and are so well-crafted that the reader moves through the piece with ease.

Practice Lesson 22: Compound Sentences Lesson 23: Complex and Compound Sentences Lesson 26: Sentence Fragments Lesson 27: Run-On Sentences Read the instructions along with the class. Look at (and listen to) the example(s). Try the practice! Improve your writing skill – or, more specifically, your sentence fluency! 