1. 6 +1 Traits

2. 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!)

3. FIRST TRAIT IS IDEAS …

4. IDEAS: A CLEAR POINT, MESSAGE, THEME, OR STORYLINE, BACKED BY IMPORTANT CHOSEN DETAILS AND SUPPORTIVE INFORMATION.  SELECT AN IDEA  NARROW 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).

6.  My beginning catches the reader’s attention and knows what I will be discussing  Transitions effectively connect my ideas  The order is logical and effective (chronological)  My title is connected to the theme of the writing  I’ve chosen an appropriate conclusion

7. Next trait is Voice…

8.  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

9. Next trait is Word Choice…

10.  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

11. Next Trait is Sentence Fluency…

12.  Use a variety of sentence lengths  I use different beginnings for sentences  I connect my sentences and my writing has rhythm

13. Next trait is Conventions …

14.  My spelling, capitalization, and punctuation are accurate  Use grammar appropriately to help the reader understand  Use paragraphs to group ideas and details together

15. Next triat is Presentation…

16. 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)

18. ① IDEAS ② Organization ③ Voice ④ Word Choice ⑤ Sentence Fluency ⑥ Conventions ⑦ Presentation

19.  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!!!