Cayman Islands Writing Exemplar

Conventions

 – Use correct spelling

• 

CVC and other high frequency words are spelled correctly or reasonable phonetic attempts by the author are 

made. The author may have referred to classroom resources, such as a word wall. 

• 

The author shows some phonemic awareness when he/she is constructing unknown words (e.g., “baihiv”, 

“luve”). It is evident that the author needs to review vowel sounds, particularly “Pushy E.”

AF9: 

Presentation 

– Handwriting and presentation

• 

The author’s handwriting is readable, letters are generally formed correctly, and words are generally spaced  

appropriately.

•  The author was not required to write on lines as specified by the Ministry’s handwriting policy.  

What’s Next? Identifying Targets for this Student:

• 

AF 6 – The author needs to work on his/her use of capital letters when starting new sentences. 

• 

AF 5 – The author needs to work on beginning sentences in different ways. Within this piece, the author  

relied on too much on the phrase “Mom and Dad”. 

 

Comments:

The author understands that he/she has been asked to persuade his/her audience; however, it would be  

advantageous for the author to use a wider variety of persuasive devices, particularly pleading and the repetition 

of key words, which are developmentally appropriate for this level. In order to reach Level 1a, the author needs to 

begin sentences in different ways and ensure that he/she includes a closing such as, “Please can I have a pet?” 

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22

Level 1a

Dear, mom

can I get a fantastic pet

fish? Inedhim tocepcompny

and cepe my sistr out of my

room. I wilfed and chang

his watr. 

canI getafantasticpet

fishmom?

yor son,

[Student Name]

Interpretation: 

Dear mom

Can I get a fantastic pet

fish? I need him to keep company

and keep my sister out of my

room. I will feed and change

his water. 

Can I get a fantastic pet

Fish mom? 

Your son,

[Student Name}