(Source:https://prowritingaid.com/art/596/Spice-Up-Your-Writing.aspx)
Have you ever wondered what can help to spice up your writing or how you could teach your students to do the same? The truth is, I have always wondered about this as well. However, you have come to the right blog because in Literature classes this week, we discovered the 6 + 1 Traits of Writing. What is this you may ask?
The 6 + 1 Traits of Writing is a framework which identifies qualities of good writing. These traits are:
This model can be used for instruction and for assessment by the teacher as well as for self assessment by the student, thus, helping them to take charge of their own writing process. The following visual briefly explains each trait:
(Source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/444378688230433462/)
As a writer, I have always paid attention to traits such as ideas, organization, sentence fluency and conventions without knowing that these were part of a framework. However, I must admit that word choice, voice and presentation are areas for personal improvement. Now that I am aware of this framework, I will be sure to use it as I write and also expose my students to it upon my return to the classroom. Reasons for teaching my students these traits include:
- Teaching them to think by making them evaluators of their own writing.
- Giving them options for revising their written work.
- Building their understanding of concepts such as voice.
What are your thoughts on the 6 + 1 writing traits and what other reasons do you think provide a rationale for teaching students these traits? Let me know in the comments.
Hi Erica, I must admit, on many occasions, I questioned myself as I engaged in creating a variety of pieces. I sometimes asked myself what elements can be added to my writing to captivate my readers. On October 28th,2020 my lecturer presented the 6 + 1 writing traits an essential framework necessary to guide one's writing . The session was informative, as I gained insight on how to refine my writing. I can now say goodbyes to any questions that were lingering in my mind relating to the essential elements in creating an excellent piece of writing
ReplyDeleteI believe that the 6+1 writing traits seek to benefit writers on all levels. Writers would be able to organize their ideas logically and coherently. Additionally, this framework will help students to critically assess and evaluate their writing also assess sample of writings from their peers.
Amina, I'm happy you found the session enlightening as well. I look forward to reading your 'spicy' pieces as you employ the 6 + 1 writing traits to give them that extra oomph.
DeleteThank you, Erica, I am grateful for the exposure to the 6+1 writing traits. I am confident that, with this framework, I would be able to demonstrate the qualities of an excellent writer, as I create a wide range of 'spicy' pieces. It would be such a pleasure to share my pieces with you.
DeleteHey guys, I thought it was only me, but I am happy to know you also benefited from this session. I can not wait to see the writing pieces we produce, now that we can write with confidence, having gained an understanding of the elements of good writing. I too loved the fact that this framework makes it easy to assess my own writing, as well as my students. I am truly eager to learn more.
ReplyDelete