The six-traits +1 of effective writing are the key characteristics of good writing. Learning the six traits will help you figure out what makes some writing good and some writing in need of more work. The traits give you the tools to improve your own writing and will help you give great feedback when you read other writers' work.
What Are the Six Traits?
Focus/Ideas, Organization, Voice,
Word Choice, Sentence Fluency, Conventions and Presentation
Focus/Ideas- Good writing has clear ideas, a purpose, or focus. It should have specific ideas and details.
Organization- Writing should have a beginning, middle, and an ending and be well organized and easy to follow.
Voice- Your writing should connect with your audience, fit your purpose for writing, and reveal your voice.
Word Choice- Good writing has specific nouns and verbs and strong words that deliver the writer's message.
Sentence Fluency- Sentences should vary in length, with a variety of sentence beginnings. The writing should flow smoothly from sentence to sentence.
Conventions- Strong writing is edited for grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling so the writer's ideas easily understood.
Presentation- Students are expected to present their work. Students can use a VARIETY of formats to present their work.