Writing Traits Instruction

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Flexible writing groups meet for trait instruction and conferencing

Trait-based instruction, as developed by Ruth Culham, is a powerful and effective tool because it focuses on one aspect of good writing at a time, and then puts them together with a common language for assessment and instruction to help guide student writers. Finally, a way to teach students to revise and improve their writing – not just for one assignment, but for all!

OBJECTIVE
Students will:

1. Learn to assess writing samples, including their own writing, for each of the traits of writing
2. Use examples from literature and knowledge of the traits to revise and improve their writing
3. Create a descriptive definition piece and other work that reflects the study of elements of the writer’s craft

LESSONS FOR THIS UNIT
Lesson 1: What is Good Writing?
Lesson 2: Using Each Trait to Improve Student Writing
Lesson 3: Putting It Together

REPRODUCIBLES
Student Scoring Grid (PDF)

CULMINATING ACTIVITY

Students submit works for publication, either on the Write It web site (http://teacher.scholastic.com/writeit/index.htm) or through other publication venues. Generally, they will go through even more review and revision beyond the classroom instruction. A published student author is very motivating to other students.

SUPPORTING BOOKS

Books for Trait-Based Writing Instruction

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  The Teacher Store
  	Scholastic Reading Inventory: Print Version in Spanish - Form A (Pre-testing) Level 12 null $69.95 You save: 25% Supplementary Collection | Grade 2

  
  Scholastic Reading Inventory: Print Version in Spanish - Form A (Pre-testing) Level 12
  Grade 2 $69.95
  
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  The Teacher Store

  Project Achievement Reading Raise test scores of struggling students with test-taking skills and practice. Project Achievement Reading helps underachieving students develop the skills they need to succeed on standardized test with instruction and practice developed around a nonfiction, fiction, or poetry selection. Project Achievement Reading features: Systematic instruction that focuses on fiction and nonfiction and emphasizes skills needed for standardized test-taking.< $169.00 You save: 25% Supplementary Collection | Grades 6-8

  
  Project Achievement Reading
  Grades 6-8 $169.00
  

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