Three Trait Model of Writing Assessment
The three writing traits assessed in the Federal Way Public Schools are:
![]()
(Click a tab to view a topic.)
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.
This icon indicates a writing example (below)--click either the icon or the text to view it. Many have areas highlighted to illustrate the points being examined. Use your browser's /back/ feature to return to this page. (If your browser goes back too far, click the model or process link at left that brought you here.)
![]()
![]()
Topic Sentence
![]()
Supporting Sentence
![]()
Closing Sentence
![]()
Transitions
![]()
Organization
![]()
- Gain the attention of the reader.
- Tell the reader what the writing is about.
![]()
- Support the topic with details, examples, facts.
The writer gives facts about the character.
The writer gives details about how the character solves the problem.
![]()
- Restate the topic in a creative way, leaving the reader satisfied.
This beginning writer solves the problem in the final sentence.
![]()
- Connect ideas and paragraphs effectively.
![]()
- Organize logically.
- Give sense of completeness.
![]()
![]()
Word Choice
![]()
Sentence Fluency
![]()
Voice
![]()
- Use powerful language appropriate for the audience and purpose.
![]()

Use a variety of sentence lengths
and beginnings.
![]()
- Show the person behind the words.
![]()
- Use complete sentences.
- Use correct capitalization, punctuation.
- Use correct grammar.
- Use correct spelling.
- Indicate paragraphs correctly.
After correcting mechanical errors, the writer produced a neat, error-free final copy.

