Three-Trait Model of Writing Assessment
The three writing traits
assessed in the Federal Way Public Schools are:
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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.
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Topic Sentence
Supporting Sentence
Closing Sentence
Transitions
Organization
Topic Sentence
- Gain the reader's attention.
The writer
uses a question to gain the reader's interest.
- Tell the reader what
the writing is about.
The
writer tells the reader he can make "a fortune" doing yard
work.
Supporting Sentence
- Support the topic with
details, examples, and facts.
The writer
tells the reader how to begin a yard work business. He could have
included more details on what to do after making flyers.
Closing Sentence
- Restate the topic in
a creative way, leaving the reader satisfied.
His closing
appeals to the reader's desire for success.
Transitions
- Connect ideas and paragraphs
effectively.
His transitions
show a logical sequence, and connect paragraphs.
Organization
- Organize logically.
- Give a sense of completeness.
Word Choice
Sentence Fluency
Voice
Word Choice
- Use powerful language appropriate
for the audience and purpose.
The writer
uses words that appeal to the reader's interests.
Sentence
Fluency
- Use a variety of sentence lengths
and beginnings.
The writer
begins to use complex sentence structure and varied beginnings.
Voice
- Show the person behind the words.
The writer
shows some personality through word choice.
- Use complete sentences.
- Use correct capitalization
and punctuation.
- Use correct grammar.
- Use correct spelling.
- Indicate paragraphs correctly.
After correcting
mechanical errors, the writer produced a neat, error-free final copy.
