iRubric: 6+1 Traits of Good Writing Grades 3 - 5 rubric

*Strong and well-established introduction and conclusion *Transitions clearly show how ideas are connected *Details fit where they are placed, and sequencing is logical and effective *Pacing is well-controlled *Title is original and captures the central theme of the writing piece *Organization flows smoothly, and choice of structure matches the purpose and audience

*Weak introduction and conclusion *Transitions between topics sometimes work well *Sequencing between topics shows some logic, but is inconsistent *Pacing is inconsistent, and sometimes spend too much time on irrelevant details *Title is present, but does not effectively support content *Organization is present, but inconsistent

*No real introduction, no real conclusion *Connections between ideas are confusing or not present *Sequencing is not evident *Pacing is awkward *No title present, or it does not match content *Lack of organization creates confusion for the reader

*Precise, powerful, and fluent language makes meaning clear
*Vivid verbs and carefully chosen nouns
*Unique and original phrases
*Vivid descriptions
*Words used in correct context

*Language is simple in some places, and powerful and precise in others
*Some vivid verbs and carefully chosen nouns
*Some use of unique and original phrases
*Some vivid descriptions
*Some words used in correct context

*Language used is not precise, powerful, or fluent, making meaning unclear
*No evidence of vivid verbs and carefully chosen nouns
*Lack or originality in word choice
*Lack of descriptive words or phrases
*Words are not used in correct context

*Spelling is generally correct *Punctuation is accurate, and lends to creativity *Consistent applications of capitalizations are present *Grammar and usage are correct and contribute to clarity and style *Paragraphing is sound and reinforces organizational structure *Writer may manipulate conventions for stylistic effect- close to publication

*Spelling is usually correct *End punctuation is correct, but internal punctuation is missing or wrong *Most words are capitalized correctly *Grammar or usage not consistently applied accurately *paragraphing is attempted, but may run together and begin in wrong places *Moderate editing required to publish writing piece

*Frequent spelling errors on already-learned words *Punctuation is often missing or incorrect *Capitalization is random, and rarely used correctly *Errors in grammar are frequent *Paragraphing is missing or irregular *Extensive editing required to publish piece