In middle school, 6th graders are encouraged to push themselves further in their writing and write with increased complexity in terms of length, subject matter, vocabulary, and general writing techniques. At the same time, 6th graders practice and refine many of the skills previously taught to them while enhancing them with the new skills and techniques they learn.
For sample writing pieces that align with the Common Core State Standards, click here.
In order to build writing skills, your 6th grader:
- Writes using more complex vocabulary and about more complex content.
- Writes over extended periods of time, such as when writing long-term research or expressive pieces that may take a week.
- Writes for short amounts of times, such as in one sitting.
- Writes a variety of genres for a variety of audiences.
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Writes structured and well-organized opinion, research, and informative pieces that:
- Use supporting claims and evidence based on credible texts and resources.
- Include an introduction, a conclusion, and transitions.
- Integrate other forms of media and formats, such as graphs, charts, headings, audio, or video when appropriate.
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Writes well-structured narratives (both true and fiction) that include:
- Descriptive detail of characters, settings, and experiences.
- Dialogue.
- A clear structure, with a logical order and flow, thought-out word choice, and a conclusion.
- Plans, revises, and edits writing, with guidance from teachers and peers.
- Writes pieces that display the reading skills achieved, including analysis of text, making comparisons and claims, and developing arguments using specific evidence.
- Uses technology and the Internet to produce and publish writing, work with others, and type a minimum of three pages in one sitting.
