Conventions

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 * Conventions**

Conventions are very important in writing, but they are not the most important. Conventions are the editing stage of writing. This trait encompasses spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and grammar to make the message clear. When teaching convention trait, the teacher needs to do some basic things. When we go through the writing with students we should try to focus on editing one thing at a time.The teacher should also let the student know that there is more than one proper way to edit their work. Another thing idea we should incorporate is modelling. The teacher can make an overhead/SMARTboard file of a writing sample and the class can make changes together. In addition to this the students should try to edit for one kind of error at a time. This strategy will make the process manageable for the students and not overwhelm them.




 * The following strategies are very useful in supporting students while editing their work**




 * Sentence Observations **: Sentence observations involve looking at mentor text with students to help them discover how grammar and mechanics works with already published authors.


 * ~ **Conventions Picture Books:** ||
 * ~ __Behind the Mask__ by Ruth Heller ||
 * ~ __Write Up a Storm With the Polk Street School__ by Patricia Reilly Giff ||


 * ~ * Have a daily editing time. Choose a sentence a paragraph or a section of a student written work. (ask the student's permission before using) Use this as a time when the group's job is to make this piece as perfect as they can. Have students reflect on how editing as a group is different than editing individually. ||
 * ~ * Introduce proofreading marks to students. Have them use these marks on a sample paragraph in pen or marker. Post these editing marks in the classroom for all to see and use. ||
 * ~ * Individual conferencing is an excellent way to teach one on one editing. When conferencing have a focus of one or two concepts for students to focus on and once those are mastered other concepts can be added. ||
 * ~ * Partner editing can be very powerful if handled in a constructive manner. Much can be learned between students. Have them take what they learned about editing and apply that to peer editing. Giving a checklist can give students added directions

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