Conventions

Conventions are the mechanical correctness of the piece-spelling, grammar and usage, paragraphing (indenting at the appropriate spots), use of capitals, and punctuation. Writing that is strong in conventions has been proofread and edited with care. Handwriting and neatness are not part of this trait. Since this trait has so many pieces to it, it's almost a holistic trait within an analytic system. As you assess a piece for convention, ask yourself: "How much work would a copy editor need to do to prepare the piece for publication?" This will keep all of the elements in conventions equally in play. Conventions is the only trait where we make specific grade level accommodations.

Key question: How much editing would have to be done to make this piece ready to share with an audience?

Key scoring points:

• Strong writing demonstrates a good grasp of standard writing conventions (e.g., spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, usage, paragraphing)
• Developing writing shows reasonable control over a limited range of standard writing conventions.
• Beginning writing has errors in spelling, punctuation, capitalization, usage and grammar and/or paragraphing repeatedly that distracts the reader and makes text difficult to read.

Download Conventions Scoring Rubric