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Three-Trait Model of Writing Assessment

The three writing traits assessed in the Federal Way Public Schools are:

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Key:

The pupil includes either (a) the three parts of a paragraph (introduction, supporting sentences, and closing), or (b) the three parts of a story (beginning, middle, and ending).

The pupil uses powerful language, voice, and sentence variety to "spice up" the writing.

The pupil repairs any mechanical problems for error-free writing.

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Opening
Supporting Ideas
Closing
Transitions
Organization

Opening

• Gain the attention of the reader.
• Tell the reader what the writing is about.
• Set the tone for the writing.

The writing could be strengthened by using an attention-getting strategy.

Supporting Ideas

• Support the topic with details, examples, and facts, without losing focus.
• Construct sequenced paragraphs.

Within each paragraph, the writer gives details to support the character trait on which he is focusing.

Closing

• Restate the topic in a creative way, leaving the reader satisfied.
• Conclude with ideas appropriate for the type of writing.

Besides recapping the discussed traits, the writer makes a hopeful statement about how hope can survive amid tragedy. This engages the reader and leaves him satisfied.

Transitions

• Connect ideas and paragraphs effectively.

The writing could be strengthened by adding transitions between paragraphs. (Examples: "Not only is Anne opinionated, but she is rather bold." "Perhaps Anne's most amazing quality is her optimism.")

Organization

• Organize logically.
• Give sense of completeness.
• Use appropriate organizational structures (paragraphs, charts, diagrams).

Each paragraph addresses a different character trait and stays focused on supporting it.

Word Choice
Sentence Fluency
Voice

Word Choice

Use powerful language appropriate for the audience and purpose.

Choose words, tone, dialect to create an effect.

Experiment with figurative language and sound patterns.

The writer uses precise language to engage the reader.

Sentence Fluency

Use a variety of sentence lengths and beginnings.

The writer uses complex sentence structures to make the piece pleasant to read.

Voice

Show person behind the words.

Appeal to the intended audience.

We get a sense that the writer values hopefulness in an extreme situation.

• Punctuate compound and complex sentences correctly..
• Apply capitalization rules correctly.
• Employ conventional usage except for effect.
• Spell correctly except for effect.
• Use paragraphing, stanza division, and other textual markers (tables of contents, bullets) to help reader move through text.

After correcting mechanical problems, the writer used the computer to produce an error-free copy.