Writing, Grammar and Punctuation Tutorial

1.� Expressive Writing & Style:

> Fluency: The exceptional writer demonstrates ease and facility in expressing ideas, observations, and feelings. The writing flows smoothly and naturally, and is understandable. It remains generally focused on the topic, but may digress. If there is a shift to another topic, the shift is logical and easy to follow.�

> Exploration of Concept: Exceptional writing shows an exploration of conceptual ideas, which the writer finds interesting and/or provocative. The writer appears to be engaged in the process and is willing to take risks and reshape conventional ideas. The writing conveys a vivid impression of thoughts, feelings, and images through the use of details. It often demonstrates insightful and reflective thinking, either by direct statement or implication.�

> Voice/style: The exceptional writer uses lively and concrete language appropriate to the writer's purpose. He or she writes personally and naturally, often in a conversational tone. Sentence structure and length are varied as appropriate to the writer's purpose.�

> Sense Engagement: Exceptional writing engages all five senses without a need for the writer to indicate which sense is being addressed. Readers should be clearly able to experience, second hand, the sensations of the characters about whom they are reading. Sense engagement should be naturally, seamlessly, and carefully.�


2.� Technical Proficiency:

> Good Grammar: The exceptional writer knows that rules are tools. They are not mere regulations designed to get in the way, and they are not an opportunity to bend them as a special treat. Instead, the exceptional writer will consider the rules as a collection of techniques that are likely to have the desired effect on his or her readers. How he or she chooses to handle those rules depends on skill, talent, and awareness.