Learning_Skills

18 / 37

18
What is 6 Traits?
“Six Traits Writing is a systematic approach for looking at writing one part at a time. Since writing is such a
complicated activity, this approach helps many people break down the task and understand it better.
By focusing on and scoring only one trait at a time, a writer/reader can break down a complex activity like
writing and make it more manageable. With practice, writers can then learn to be more critical of their own
work and can make improvements in the quality of their writing. Perhaps, more than anything else, the six
traits give teachers and students a common vocabulary for talking and thinking about writing.”
6+1 Key Qualities
The 6+1 Trait Writing analytical model for assessing and teaching writing is made up of 6+1 key qualities
that define strong writing. These are
 Ideas, the main message;
 Organization, the internal structure of the piece;
 Voice, the personal tone and flavor of the author's message;
 Word Choice , the vocabulary a writer chooses to convey meaning;
 Sentence Fluency, the rhythm and flow of the language;
 Conventions, the mechanical correctness; and
 Presentation, how the writing actually looks on the page.
Purpose: Improve Writing Skills
GOAL
Strategy: Summary Writing
6+1 Trait Writing Model
(2015). L. King.
Based on the 6+1 Trait Writing by Education Northwest.
(2015). Education Northwest. 6+1 Trait Writing. Retrieved 02, 2015, from
[Refer to Photo Credits for details aboutthe photographs used in the graphic.]
(2015). Long, V. and Gardiner, S. The Interactive Six Trait Writing Process. Introduction. Retrieved 02, 2015, from The Literate Learner at
DoDEA Virtual High School (DVHS)