Ideas : Questions to Ask : Books : Other
A paper with good ideas and content is clear and focused. It holds the reader’s attention. Relevant anecdotes and details contribute to and enrich the central theme or story line.
Ideas are the heart of the message in the writing. They are what we have to say and the reason we are writing. To write well, it is important for us to really know about our subject. It is either connected with our own experiences or else we have researched the topic thoroughly.
What are some ways I can help my writer with the Ideas Trait?
Some questions parents can suggest their children ask to direct attention to Ideas and Content are:
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Is my message clear?
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Do I know enough about my topic?
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Did I make the topic interesting with details?
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Is my topic the right focus (not too large or too small)?
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Did I SHOW what was happening rather than just TELL?
Children's Literature I Can Use
A good source for examples of Six Trait writing is quality children's literature. When you read to your child, look for books
that demonstrate a specific trait or with a full range of traits and help your child recognize those strengths in the writing. In this section we list a few examples to get you started. Most of these suggestions
should be available at your local library.
Books for Ideas:
Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge by Mem Fox takes a unique perspective on memories and dreams through the story of an old woman befriended by a young boy who helps her save her fading memory.
Horrible Histories: The Awesome Egyptians by Terry Dreary and Peter Hepplewhite approaches what could be dry, boring topics in a way that is exciting, engaging, funny and inspiring. You will never see history the same way again.
Helping your writer understand a particular Trait can involve more than pencil and paper activities. Take advantage of everyday situations that help them THINK like great writers.
Coaching Ideas - Help students become good observers. When you are out-and-about, ask them to make observations about what they see; look for the less-than-obvious; people-watch; comment on things people in a rush might miss. Improving these observation skills makes it easier to generate ideas when prewriting and writing.