Writing+Program+at+a+Glance

 The following model is a form of assessment; a method of looking at specific characteristics and assessing each independent of the other. Collectively, this develops a shared understanding of what "good" writing looks like. Students have a common vocabulary for talking about good writing and allows them to be self evaluators. = 6 + 1 Writing Traits = 1. **Ideas:** make up the content of the piece of writing - the heart of the message 2. **Organization:** is the internal structure of the piece, the logical pattern of ideas 3. **Voice:** "the soul" of the piece, the writer's ability to state his/her convictions through the words 4. **Word choice:** the vocabulary - is at its best when rich, colorful, precise language moves and enlightens the reader 5. **Sentence fluency:** the rhythm and flow of the language, the sound of word patterns - the writing plays to the ear, not just the eye 6. **Conventions:** the mechanical correctness of the piece

+1 **Presentation:** focuses on on the form and layout - how pleasing the piece is to the eye.

= Each of these will be focused on in depth during class through writer's workshop activities and discussion. =