Six Traits of GREAT Writing
IDEAS:
 Strong writing has a clear message, purpose, or focus.
 Strong writing contains plenty of specific supporting details.
Notes:
ORGANIZATION:
 Strong writing has a clear beginning, middle, and ending.
 Strong writing is well organized and easy to follow.
 Transitions are used effectively.
Notes:
VOICE:
 The best writing reveals the writer’s voice – or special way of
saying things.
 The voice fits the audience and purpose.
 The writer sounds confident, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic.
Notes:
WORD CHOICE:
 Good writing contains strong words, including specific nouns and
verbs.
 Strong words help deliver a clear message.
 Vivid, colorful modifiers are used.
Notes:
SENTENCE FLUENCY:
 Effective writing flows smoothly from one sentence to the next.
 Sentences vary in length and begin in a variety of ways.
 A variety of sentence structure/type is used.
Notes:
CONVENTIONS:
 Good writing is carefully edited to make sure it is easy to
understand.
 The writing follows the rules for punctuation, grammar, and
spelling.
Notes:
Remember to review your goals for each trait prior to each writing assignment!