1. Proper Writing Techniques

2. Common errors Write out numbers 1-9 or if the number appears at the beginning of the sentence. Fifty-five years ago, my grandparents moved to the U.S. from Canada. A lot is two words. Capitalize the beginning of each sentence.

3. Do Not… Skip any lines on your “FCAT” paper Number your paper’s paragraphs. First, second, third, my first reason, my second reason Write out words in all capital letters -SILVER TRAIL -Silver Trail Talk to your reader -Good morning, my name is Brittany, and I am going to explain my responsibility. -I hope you enjoyed this essay. -The following paragraphs will be about…

4. Do Not Use abbreviations or text message &, LOL, OMG, etc. Use baby words -A lot, stuff, things, said, went Use more than one punctuation mark -My responsibilities keep me very busy!!!!! Use dialogue in an essay -“Wake up Billy! It’s time for school.” My mother screamed from downstairs. Instead use: I heard my mother’s deafening scream as I awoke, and I knew that it was time to get ready for another school day.

5. Do not ask your reader questions I can’t believe they make us read at home, can you? Do you like to read? Do you have a favorite toy? OK The homework piles up and I ask myself, when will this torture end?

6. Do not use things or stuff Reading is a boring thing we have to do for homework. It is boring because I’d rather be doing other stuff. I like to watch TV and stuff like that. Kids have things to do after school and we don’t have time for other stuff. If we didn’t have to read, we could do more things and stuff. Something I like to do is other stuff besides reading.

7. FCAT Myth #1 Spelling is most important. FALSE It is important to spell elementary level words correct but it is also important to use advanced words. Good v. tremendous a lot v. a myriad

8. FCAT Myth #2 You must write 5 paragraphs FALSE You may write 3, 4, 6, or even 8 paragraphs and score a 3 or higher. You should explain yourself thoroughly and fill both sides of the paper.

9. Quiz on Thurs. 9/22 Be able to: Define all 6 traits Identify do’s and don’ts from writing techniques presentation Punctuate for dialogue use their, there, they’re and it’s, its properly

10. Quiz on Thurs. 9/22 Be able to: Define all 6 traits Identify do’s and don’ts from writing techniques presentation use their, there, they’re and it’s, its properly