What do you teach after introducing the Six Traits of Writing?

An intentional, explicit introduction to the Six Traits of Writing should be part of the annual start-up to any writer’s workshop. Regardless if students know a lot or a little about these six ingredients to good writing, this establishes common language among the community of writers.

With procedures in place, writer stamina built, and trait language introduced, now teachers transition into writing units. For some, this is to embark on six to nine-week units, while others prefer shorter mini-units. Regardless of the approach, the secret is to teach students the different purposes and structures of the different genres.

Duration: 3:42 | Grades K-12