The Six Trait Writing Model is a system that is designed to teach students the craft of quality writing. The system is structured around six traits which supply a framework in which teachers can provide focused, detailed feedback and instruction. The six traits of writing create a common format for discussing, critiquing, and celebrating writing. The Six Trait Model has proven to be a very effective system for analyzing and improving writing performance and writing skills.
The Six Trait Writing Model comprises the following traits:
- Ideas and Content. The message the writer conveys, what the writer has to say. This should be fresh and original, unique to the writers' personal experience. The content should contain details to support the main message.
- Word Choice. Words that are precise and accurate. The writer should use strong action verbs and descriptive adjectives.
- Conventions. Punctuation, grammar, spelling, capitalization, paragraph structure. These elements should be used to make the writing content easy to read, accessible to the reader, and provide a smooth ride.
- Voice. The unique personality of the writer. The reader should get a sense that a real, truthful person is writing the content, is behind the words and meanings on the page.
- Sentence Fluency. The ability to create smooth flow and rhythm of the sentence structure. The fluency of short vs. long sentences should carry the reader along seamlessly.
- Organization. The overall logical and efficient structure of the content. The introduction of the plot or theme, the build-up, the climax, and the resolution should all be introduced and addressed with proper timing and balance.
Many teachers of the Six Trait Writing Model will apply the correct rubric, or scoring structure, when applying the Six Trait Model to pieces of writing, thus achieving a measurable and consistent scoring system that can be universally applied to many forms of writing. The Six Trait Writing Model has become a favorite writing education tool among teachers today.
Here are some great online resources explaining the Six Trait Writing Model: