Grammar
Writing has certain characteristics or “traits” in order to be a successful
piece. When the student can recognize and copy each trait, better writing is
the result. There are six such traits for good writing: ideas, organization,
voice, word choice, sentence fluency, and conventions.

Ideas

•  Clear message

• Focused on the topic

•  Information that is fresh and imaginative

•  Helpful details that go beyond the obvious

•  Details that paint a picture

Organization

•  Use a hook or grabber to capture the reader’s attention

•  Clear and organized

• Easy to follow

• Every supporting detail connects to the main idea

•  Interesting ending

Voice

•  Personality shines through

•  Makes the topic come to life

•  Is appropriate to the audience,topic,purpose

Word Choice

•  Exciting uses of action verbs,descriptive adjectives, and precise nouns

•  Uses sensory descriptors

•  Minimal redundancy

• Language that suits the topic, purpose and audience

Sentence Fluency

•  Rhythmic

•  Easy to read aloud

•  A variety of sentence lengths and types

•  Use of transitions to flow from one point to another

Conventions

•  Correct spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, and word usage

•  Correct tenses

•  Subject-verb agreement