Best-of-Smekens Writing Conference:
Writing Remix 2018
SECRET SITE
Six-Traits Essentials
SESSION 1
Recognize the 6 Traits within K-12 Student Writing
Connect each trait with a visual icon
Icons in Word | Six-Traits Mini-Posters: Black and White | Spot Color | Monochromatic
Connect the traits to writing standards & writing process
SESSION 2
Introduce the 6 Traits to Students
Reveal mentor text that exemplifies each trait
Define the traits with song lyrics
Incorporate additional supports
SESSION 3
Effectively Apply Mentor Text within a Mini-Lesson
Collect mentor texts
Grade-specific writing samples
Mentor text sorted by the traits K-2 | Middle School
Dissect examples in four layers
Trait Trackers identify how the same picture book can be used for all 6 Traits of Writing.
Weave the exemplar into your lesson instruction
Mentor text can play a powerful role in conventions/grammar mini-lessons.
Define the goals for students
SESSION 4
Create Writing Rubrics in the Primary Grades
Build a simple rubric
Introducing rubrics to students
Clean Cart Caddy Rubric
Clean Desk
Books | Folders | Binders | Pencil Box
Establish and grow a writing rubric
SESSION 5
Assess Writing with a 6-Traits Rubric
Create non-writing rubrics
Desk Rubric
Grade 4 Example
Locker Rubric
Grade 10 Example
Launching the Writer’s Workshop: Grades 3-12
Chapter 7 – “Building Rubrics”
Build an initial writing rubric
