TThe 6 + 1 Traits of Writing

Short Definitions

1)  Ideas- Ideas make up the content of the writing. They are the “heart” of the message.

2)  Organization- Organization is the inside structure of the writing. It is the “thread of meaning” and the logical pattern of ideas.

3)  Voice- Voice is the “soul” of the writing. The writer’s own feelings and views come out through the words.

4)  Word Choice- Word choice is at its best when it includes the use of rich, colorful, and exact language that makes readers experience the writing more deeply.

5)  Sentence Fluency- Sentence fluency is the “flow” of the language and the sound of the word patterns. It is how the writing sounds when read.

6)  Conventions- Conventions represent the writing’s level of correctness. It measures how much the writer has used proper grammar, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization.

+1) Presentation- Presentation is the form and layout of the writing. It is how pleasing the writing is to look at.