1. Implementation of 6 +1 Trait District Writing Model Led district implementation and training of this new model for writing instruction Responsible for proposal to Writing & Speaking Committee, grant writing, hiring trainers, scheduling training sessions, along follow through of the program Learned to develop, implement, and monitor procedures to align, sequence, and articulate curriculum Prepared to lead by demonstrating ability to enhance teaching and learning through strategic planning and training of staff

2. 6 + 1 Trait Writing Model

3. Tale of the Traits Once upon a time……. back in the 1980’s creative teachers from districts like Beaverton, Oregon and Missoula, Montana decided they didn’t want to live with standardized writing assessments anymore.

4. They wanted……. Something they could teach from A shared vocabulary to use with students, parents, and the community Writing instruction that could be built upon by students year after year

5. The real work began……. No prior analytical assessment model existed for evaluating writing Tens of thousands of papers were sorted into literally three piles: –Pile 1: Really great stuff –Pile 2: OK, but still needing work –Pile 3: Whew! Needs extensive revision

6. The results……. Common “traits” of what is valued in writing A way to assess writing based on analysis of each trait A consistent terminology for students to grow with year after year

7. Sponsorship Sponsorship and support of 6 Trait criteria and implementation by NWREL: –Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory Portland, Oregon

8. So, what are the traits…….

9. Ideas & Content Concise, manageable topic Lots of showing, not just telling Details that matter Key Question: Did the writer stay focused and share quality information about the topic?

10. Organization Inviting introduction that hooks the reader Logical, effective sequencing Thought provoking conclusion Key Question: Did the beginning and ending work in harmony -- like bookends?

11. Voice Personal quality (tone, style, or uniqueness) Sense of the writer behind the words Sense of commitment, involvement, and enthusiasm Key Question: Could anyone else write about this topic in the same way?

12. Word Choice Words that create vivid images “Precise” rather than general Natural -- no Thesaurus overload Key Question: How many words or phases linger in your mind?

13. Sentence Fluency Moves with an easy rhythm and flow Sentences vary in length and structure Sentences begin in different ways Key Question: Is it easy to read out loud?

14. Conventions Spelling, punctuation, grammar, usage, paragraphing, and capital letters Appears proofread and edited Key Question: How much editing is still needed?

15. Presentation Clear and pleasing to the eye Slant, spacing, and readability Visuals, if used, add to the understanding of the text Key Question: Is it neatly polished with everything in the right place?

16. …….and they’re all assessed “analytically.”

17. Analytical Scoring Guide (Rubric) 5=Strong: shows control and skill in this trait; many strengths present 4=Competent: strong overall, the strengths outweigh the weaknesses 3=Developing: strengths and need for revision are about equal 2=Emerging: a few strong points but many more needs for revision 1=Not Yet: a bare beginning; writer not yet showing any control