Students learned cursive handwriting in third grade and are expected to
be able to use it in fourth grade. A copy of the cursive alphabet is posted
in each classroom and on each student's desk. Practice books, if needed,
can be found at most discount stores or office supply stores if needed.
As fourth graders, students are expected to use correct captialization
and end punctuation in their writing. Students are also being encouraged to
stretch their sentences to include more specific information. Adding
descriptive details - where, why, when and how - will make their writing
more interesting. We will practice identifying and correcting run-on
sentences. Adding more information to a sentence shouldn't create a
run-on sentence!
Writing instruction will be organized around the Six +1 Traits: ideas,
organization, voice, word choice, sentence fluency, conventions and
presentation. A brief overview of each trait is given below.
Ideas: The writing focuses on one main idea which is supported with
interesting details.
Organization: The writing has a beginning, middle and end. The beginning
grabs the reader's attention and transitions connect details in a logical
sequence.
Voice: The writing (language) clearly belongs to the writer. The point of
view is clear and is appropriate for the audience.
Word choice: Ideas are expressed with strong, clear and descriptive
language.
Sentence fluency: Sentences begin in a variety of ways and also vary in
length. There is a natural flow when read aloud.
Conventions: Spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and grammar are used
correctly.
Presentation: The appearance of the writing is neat (handwritten or typed)
and the layout has visual appeal. Graphics or illustrations are
included.
