Ideas

The ideas are the heart of the message, the content of the piece, the main theme, and the details that enrich and develop the theme.

• Makes sense
• Narrow, manageable topic
• Sounds like writer knows the topic well
• Fresh spin
• Important details

Organization

Organization is the internal structure of a piece of writing, the thread of central meaning and the logical and sometimes intriguing pattern of the ideas.

• Inviting lead
• Purposeful sequencing
• Elaboration remains “centered”
• Fun to predict, but… some surprises, too!
• Doesn’t just STOP
• No redundant summaries

Voice

Voice is the heart and soul, the magic, the wit, along with the feeling and conviction of the individual writer coming out through the words.

• Sounds like you wrote it
• Sound like writer-no one else
• Brings topic to life
• Punch, flair, style, courage
• Sense of involvement 

Word Choice

Word choice is the use of rich, colorful, precise language that moves and enlightens the reader.

• Memorable moments
• Strong Verbs
• Vivid images
• “Just right” words & phrases
• Simple language used well
• Minimal redundancy
• Minimal slang, jargon, inflated language
• Not just correct

Sentence Fluency

Sentence fluency is the rhythm and flow of the language, the sound of word patterns, and the way in which the writing plays to the ear - not just to the eye.

• Easy to read aloud
• Varied Sentence length
• Varied, purposeful sentence beginnings:

Now, After a while, Because of this, Nevertheless, As a result, consequently, However, Therefore…

• Rhythm, cadence

Conventions

Conventions are the mechanical correctness of the piece.  This includes spelling, grammar and usage, paragraphing, capitalization, and punctuation.

• Looks clean, edited and polished
• Most things done correctly
• Easy to decode, decipher, comprehend, & follow
• No BIG, GLARING errors
• Easy to focus on ideas, voice, organization