6 traits in first grade

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6 traits in first grade
By dawn

Our school also started traing children in 6 traits. The jump down from 4th to 1st is going to be a really big adjustment! I know, I've been there!!!! When they say the kids can't do anything...it's true... until you show
them how. You will be getting children who are learning to use only the first sound in each word and others who can write very simple sentences. You need to get down to the basics first. You will need to show them how to write a simple setence. I use picture cards for the subject and an action. I model how to write the sentence. Do this over and over. Then, add details of how,

where, when ect. We write very patterned sentences. Story writing instructions starts later, by showing them beginning, middle and end. I would suggest that you get a couple really good books by Creative Teaching Press. (Developing Young Authors, Teaching Writing, and Interactive Writing). These sources are truly excellent and worth the money. They are not strictly 6 traits, but it is a great starting point. You can sucessful teach content and ideas, organization (Beginning, Middle and End) and very beginning conventions. Good Luck, go slow, the first month may be hard!