Define the Traits : Advantages of 6 + 1 Traits : Parent Handbooks
Click on the Trait below for more information and suggestions to help your writer!
Ideas: The ideas are the heart of the message, the content of the piece, the main theme, together with the details that enrich and develop that theme.
Organization: Organization is the internal structure of a piece of writing, the thread of central meaning, the logical and sometimes intriguing pattern of the ideas. The piece has a beginning, middle and an end.
Voice: The voice is the heart and soul, the magic, the will, along with the feeling and conviction of the individual writer coming out through the words. The reader should feel the enthusiasm of the writer.
Word Choice: Word choice is the use of rich, colorful, precise language that moves and enlightens the reader.
Sentence Fluency: Sentence fluency is the rhythm and flow of the language, the sound of work patterns, and the way in which the writing plays to the ear - not just to the eye. The sentences should be clear and easy to read.
Conventions: Conventions are the mechanical correctness of the piece - spelling, grammar and usage, paragraphing, use of capitals, and punctuation.
+1 Presentation: Presentation zeros in on the form and layout of the text and its readability: the piece should be pleasing to the eye.
What are the advantages to using 6 + 1 Traits?
1. It gives teachers and students a common language to talk about writing.
2. It breaks down the complex process of writing into manageable “chunks.”
3. It aligns with standards-based instruction: students define quality and know what the expectations are.
4. It gives teachers a model for responding to student writing.
5. It establishes consistency from year to year and teacher to teacher.
6. It provides a solid foundation for revision and editing.
7. It encourages writers to become more independent; it empowers them to evaluate and assess their own writing.
8. It gives teachers and students valuable feedback about student performance.
9. It challenges students to think of writing in new ways.
10. It provides opportunities to monitor progress over time.
Much of the information on this web site was gathered from the following 6 + 1 Traits Parent Handbooks. Please feel free to print one out so that you will have a hard copy available to you while you work with your child.
-
Deer Valley
Unified School District
Dear Parent, A Handbook for Parents of 6 Trait Writing Students
- St John’s Riedman Memorial School The Writing Handbook