WRITING CORNER

  Use this information as a guide when you are using the 6+1 Traits in your writing.  When you use these traits, your writing will improve.

IDEAS - This is the your message.  Is your topic narrow?  Do you stay on topic as you write?  Is your writing easy to follow?

ORGANIZATION - Start your writing with a bold beginning to capture your reader's interest.  Then use details to support your beginning.  Does your ending let the reader know you are finished writing about the topic?  Check how you began each sentence.  Are you using a variety of transition words?

VOICE - Write to your audience.  Your writing should sound like you when you speak.  The reader should be aware of your feelings.

WORD CHOICE - Select just the right words when you write.  Use vivid verbs and specific nouns.

SENTENCE FLUENCY - Read your writing aloud.  Do you hear the rhythm and flow of your words and sentences?

CONVENTIONS - Conventions are what you check your writing for when you edit. Check for correct spelling, punctuation, word usage, and use of capital letters.

PRESENTATION -  This is how your final copy looks.  Is the appearance neat and easy to read?

 

Writing

     The best way to improve writing skills is by writing on a regular basis.  One way this can be accomplished is through the use of a dialogue journal.  A parent or guardian can start by writing to your child.  Your child reads what you have written and responds in writing.  As the journal goes back and forth between parent or guardian and child, writing and reading skills are being practiced.  A couple of tips to keep in mind when using a dialogue journal are:  most young children can not read cursive so print, select a topic your child is interested in to write about, and keep the routine consistent.   Happy writing!

READING CORNER

  Think about the things good readers do when they read.  Good readers:

      - predict what will happen next.

      - form pictures in their mind as they read.  This will help you understand what you are reading.

      - use different strategies to decode unknown words.  Start by trying to sound the word out.  Another strategy is to skip
        the  unknown word and read to the end of the sentence.  Then go back and reread the sentence, and this time try
        a word that would make sense where the unknown word is.  Use the beginning sound of the word as a clue.

     - practice reading.  Find a book or author you like and read. Read everyday.

When you find a good book, bring it to class and share it with us.

Thank you!

 aheymann@tully.k12.ny.us