Parent Tips
Homework Hints:
Math:
Reading:
Writing:
Throughout the year, we will be using the six traits of writing to help us revise, edit, and ultimately to strengthen our skills as writers.
Writing has certain characteristics or “traits” in order to be a successful
piece. When the student can recognize and copy each trait, better writing is
the result. There are six such traits for good writing: ideas, organization,
voice, word choice, sentence fluency, and conventions.
Traits are usually introduced one at a time to the student. Typically one trait
is taught and practiced over a month long process. Conventions
(capitalization, spelling, word usage, grammar and punctuation), however,
is a trait that begins at the start of the school year and continues through to
the end of school. By January all traits have been introduced and practiced
thoroughly.
Additionally, Six Traits uses a rubric to evaluate the strengths of each trait.
These are infused into the writing curriculum as the trait is learned and
practiced to provide feedback to the students. For example, it is likely to
hear a student say to another, “I need to work more on Voice, but I am
really strong in Organization.”
At times your child may bring home his or her writing assignment to share with you. You may also be asked to provide feedback using the six traits. Please click here for information about the traits and to see how your child will be learning to use them in class. Here are a few more helpful home tips:
