6+Traits+of+Writing-+Word+Choice

= 6 Traits of Writing: Word Choice =


 * Trait "Shortie" for Word Choice **

//Word Choice: Phrasing & Terminology//


 * Clear, aids readers' understanding
 * Original, memorable
 * Concise
 * Natural
 * Filled with strong verbs
 * No modifier "overload"
 * Paints word pictures (Spandel, 2009, p. 91)


 * Thinking Like a Writer Primary Poster: Word Choice**


 * Did I use words I LOVE?
 * Did I use any NEW words?
 * Do my words make sense? (Spandel, 2009, p. 322)

Spandel, V. (2009). //Creating writers through 6-trait writing: Assessment and instruction//. Boston, MA: Allyn & Bacon.


 * Word Choice: A Definition for Students **

When we explore word choice in the classroom, we focus on the parts of speech that writers use to convey meaning--the nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, pronouns, contractions, gerunds, and so on. These terms may conjure up chilling moments from high school English class, but word choice is not about grammar. It's about selecting words carefully to craft fluent sentences and create a lasting image in the reader's mind. We know that primary students are well on their way to making wise choices when they:


 * play with letters to make words
 * attempt to write words they have heard
 * try new ways of saying things
 * express an interest in the role of different kinds of words (nouns, verbs, adjectives, and so on)
 * develop a curiosity about language
 * use the perfect word in the perfect place
 * try sensory words
 * use language with precision (Culham, 2005, p. 171)

Culham, R. (2005). //6+1 traits of writing: The complete guide for the primary grades.// Broadway, NY: Scholastic, Inc.

= **Word Choice Web Links** =

http://writingfix.com/6_traits/word_choice.htm
 * All about word choice:**

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 * Word Choice "writing lab" for students**

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 * Mentor texts for Word Choice:**