Trait #2 Organization

1. Trait #2 Organization Six Traits

2. A Definition • Organization is all about design. Once a writer has assembled his/her information (IDEAS) and thoughts, it’s time to put things together in a way that makes sense and that holds the reader’s attention. • Ask: “Where do I begin? What do I say next? And after that? How do I wrap it up?” • Good organization makes writing as easy to follow as a well-planned road map. That does not mean organization is predictable or formulaic; good writers often make connections the reader did not anticipate. • It does mean that the reader moves effortlessly from one thought to the next. • Interest and understanding grows throughout the piece until – boom! The power of a just-right conclusion brings the discussion to a close.

3. Student Checklist for Organization • My lead will put you right into the piece. • All the information is arranged to make my paper interesting to follow. • Each point I make connects in some way to my main idea. You will never feel lost or confused. • I use transitional words and phrases – On the other hand, For example – to build word bridges from sentence to sentence or idea to idea. • The writing is well placed. I spend time where it’s needed, not on trivia. • My conclusion wraps up the discussion effectively.

4. Begin at, well, the beginning! • A strong introduction does not have to be a formal introduction! • Any strong introduction will grab the reader’s attention and hold it throughout the paper. • There are three typical components to a strong introduction: A grabbing lead sentence (also known as a hook, attention getter etc.), Background information (set the scene), and just a hint at what you are talking about. • When writing any essay or story, you need to spend considerable time planning how you will begin. This is the reader’s first impression of you. What do you want that first impression to look like?

5. Ways to begin: Suggestions for Lead Sentences • Make a bold statement – startle the reader. • Begin with a little known fact. • Open with a quotation. • Tell a brief, related anecdote. • Set the scene with a vivid description (like the stage set for a play). • Introduce two characters engaged in a relevant dialogue – with opposing viewpoints. • Remind readers of something most people think is true – something you’re about to show is false or exaggerated. • Put the piece right into motion with action. • Start with a hint about the conclusion – but be careful not to tell everything. • Raise an important question to which you will soon provide an important answer. • Let the reader in on a secret (Also works for the ending)