GEE’S Writing RULES

Level I ALL papers must include a heading- name, date, class **in the top right corner. ALL titles should be capitalized appropriately. Indent each new paragraph- ½ inch for handwritten/ 1 tab on computer Do NOT write inside the margins (left and right). Do NOT write under the last line of lined paper. DO use appropriate spacing between words. DO write on the lines and between the lines of lined paper. DO write until the right-side margin, but not inside the margin.

Level II ALWAYS refer to assignment directions/ instructions/ guidelines prior to writing paper. A RUBRIC will ALWAYS be used to assess assignment. A RUBRIC will ALWAYS be designed using ALL required components. WHILE Planning and Drafting assignment *Make sure to include ALL required components.

Level II Remember Your Audience Unless specifically noted in prompt or assignment , your English Instructor (Ms. Gee) is your audience! Formal (rather than informal or conversational) use of language is required. Writer’s Voice/ Point of View should be distinct and demonstrate a clear understanding of audience.

Level III Organization/ Structure + Unity/ Cohesion ALL papers must have an organized writing format with a clear beginning, middle and end. **This applies to short pieces (i.e. paragraphs) and longer writing (i.e. essays). The specific details will vary based on assignment guidelines, but generally all writing should have a topic sentence or thesis statement to provide structure to writing.

Level III Conventions/ Mechanics= GRAMMAR Papers should have few to no errors in mechanics (i.e. punctuation, capitalization, and spelling). ALL papers must use consistent agreement between all parts of speech. Subject/ Verb Agreement Singular/ Plural Nouns Verb (tense & usage) Pronoun usage Adjectives/ Adverbs

Level IV Language & Style ALL papers must present an engaging, formal, and objective tone. ALL papers must use sophisticated language and topic specific vocabulary. ALWAYS use exemplary word choice (i.e. vivid, precise, economical, connotative). **Use a thesaurus!!