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Writing Traits

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 This week was a continuation of the Stages of Writing Development, where we further explored the characteristics associated with each stage, as well as samples of how to identify the stage where a student is at. I found this to be an extremely necessary skill in the teaching of writing. What are your opinions?


The Six Traits of Writing was the next topic and I found this picture that identifies and briefly defines them.


Ms. Quinn also had a video that actually utilizes a metaphor to help remember each of the six traits. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oAp5w-ZKeXk 



Ideas (Brain): Just like the brain controls the body, our ideas control our writing. Good ideas should be strengthened by facts, examples, and details. 


Organization (Skeleton): The skeleton or shape of our writing. To clearly organize our ideas and place them where they will have the greatest impact on our readers. 


Sentence Fluency (Feet): How our sentences move along just like our feet carry us where we want to go. Good writers know how to use various sentence lengths to express their ideas and reach their readers. The writer is flexible with how they start sentences and structure them to avoid repetition which could discourage readers. 


Word Choice (Muscles): Just like muscles are a symbol of strength and power, so too is our choice of words. As writers, we should be able to skillfully use vivid and interesting words to get the desired reaction we want from our readers. The words we choose don’t necessarily seem big or smart but instead should be natural. A good writer knows when to cut to the chase and keep words simple and literate; on the other hand, there are times when the writer can get creative with figurative language to express their thoughts.


Voice (Heart): The heart of our writing that pumps life into it. Good writers make their true selves known within their writing while meeting the expectations of their audience, purpose, and task. An important rule to remember is the Four C’s:

  • Clear

  • Confident

  • Convincing 

  • Consistent


Conventions (Ribcage): Protect the vital organs of your writing from errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and capitalization. Just remember to proofread your work to ensure it’s free of errors and easy to read.


What did you think about the use of a metaphor to explain the six traits of writing?


Here’s my take on the info that the video provided. Let me know if you find the information helpful. I tried my best to draw in the skeleton, don’t judge. 

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