1. Writer's Workshop
The writing process includes prewriting, drafting, revising and editing. Children often write from personal experience using their senses. We use Thinking Maps as part of the prewriting stage to help us flesh out our ideas.
Ideas - the heart of the message, the content, the main idea
Characteristics:
writing is focused and clear
a controlling idea is present and selective details are used
enough detail is used to clearly "show" ideas, not "tell"
writing shows insight
Organization –the internal structure
Characteristics:
writing opens with an effective lead
effective sequencing is utilized
pacing is deliberate and varied to fit the purpose
smooth transitions are used
momentum builds and a clear resolution is reached
Voice – the heart and soul, tone, feeling and conviction of the writer
Characteristics:
the person behind the words is evident
interaction is achieved between the reader and writer
writer "has a conversation" with the reader
piece reflects commitment and conviction
text has life, expression and vitality
Word Choice –the use of rich, colorful language that engages, moves or enlightens the reader
Characteristics:
vocabulary is natural and fits the purpose
precise nouns and lively verbs are chosen
a mental picture is created with words
common everyday words are given a new twist
Sentence Fluency – the sound, rhythm and flow of language
Characteristics:
sentence beginnings, sentence length, and sentence structure are varied
sentences have a rhythmic sound and are pleasant to listen to
phrasing can be musical or poetic
sentences have clarity and make sense
Conventions –the mechanical correctness of the piece
Characteristics:
capitalization, grammar, punctuation, and spelling are correct
punctuation reflects and supports sentence fluency
+1 Presentation –the look
Characteristics:
text is legible
paragraphing supports the organizational patterns of the piece
visual aids enhance the piece
