Word Choice 6+1 Traits of Writing Ruth Culham & Martha Spain
The beginning of the school year when we talked about all the writing assignments we would do; and I explained that I would show you mentor texts? This is one of those mentor text.
Accurate and specific scientific terminology Voice-filled text so that you, the reader, is not so overwhelmed by the words
This is an excellent example for representing how to write informational text that uses content-specific words in a way that draws the reader in and presents ideas in a fresh and original context.
“Words are the building blocks of writing. The use of rich, and precise language engages the reader in the content of writing and makes the meaning clear. We should strive to use language that is not only functional but also beautiful and descriptive.”
“ Word choice refers to writer’s use of words to explain and describe so that the reader can picture what the writer is talking about. When you choose words for your writing, you want to consider whether they are the very best words you could use to make the ideas of your piece come to life. It’s important to use active verbs, precise nouns, and colorful, adjectives in order to be accurate and specific in your writing.”
“The words paint pictures in the reader’s mind. The “just right” words make the message crystal clear. The words are accurate, specific, and powerful. The active verbs add energy and punch. The words and phrases have a marvelous sound.”
Look in your science textbook, science magazines, or on the Internet for articles on how the body works. May chose from the following topics: ◦ Bloodskinbonemuscle ◦ nerves digestion respiration
1. View Power Point one time through 2. Complete Prereading exercise (look in science textbook, Internet or scientific magazines for articles on how the body works). 3. Using the glossary (in the Power Point, ) and the Expanding Vocabulary sheet (next slide) 1.Record each word that you find, 2.The sentence in which you found the word 3.And your best guess about the words meaning 4.Look up one of those words in a dictionary, glossary, or other resource and write down the definition
6. Using the Cartoon –Strip Dialogue Sheet First: Use the word that you looked up in step 3(last slide) number 4, Second: Create a cartoon that uses that word in a dialogue between two characters. Third: The dialogue should provide enough context and detail to reveal the meaning of the word We will be exchanging/sharing with our classes
“Read a science picture book and examine how the writer, Vicki Cobb, uses scientific language that stretches our vocabularies and is interesting to us as readers, too. We’ll use the book Blood & Gore as a model for our own writing that will showcase strong word choice using words that are accurate and specific.” While reading complete Memorable and Scientific Phrases & Words sheet Think about how the information and how the words are used.
◦ Make a poster, advertising the importance of your topic, such as skin, blood, bone, muscle, nerves, digestion, or respiration ◦ You should think about how to explain it to people who may not know a lot of scientific reasons or words that describe this part or function. ◦ Your poster must include: A slogan that captures the importance of this body part function; Text written in first person; you should write from the view of this body part or function What will happen if this part or function is not working properly At least three fascinating facts or pieces of information about this part or function; and picture of this part of the human body (either dawn or photocopied) or a chart showing the sequence of the function. Highlight, circle, or mark in come way any words or phrases that specifically explain your topic. These words should tad out on the poster. Please see and use the following worksheet: Poster Writing Activity, Scoring Guide, and contest voting ballot (next slide).
We will share tomorrow. The poster is due on Friday, December 12. We may have to extend until Monday.