Improve Student Writing with COPS: A Simple Strategy for Editing
Many students struggle through the editing process because they don’t have a clearly defined editing strategy. Without a clear strategy, it can be difficult for students to know what to look for or how to approach the editing process.
What is the COPS editing strategy?
You can use the COPS strategy to teach students how to edit their writing. COPS stands for capitalization, organization, punctuation, and spelling. The acronym is designed to help students remember what to look for during the editing process.
When presented in a checklist format, the COPS editing strategy provides students with a visual reminder of what to look for while editing and a box to check off as they complete each step. Over time, the goal is for students to edit their writing without needing to use the checklist for support.
Capitalization
The first section of the COPS editing checklist prompts students to identify errors in capitalization. The checklist reminds students to make sure:
- The first word in each sentence is capitalized.
- Proper nouns are capitalized.
- The word “I” is capitalized.
Organization
The second section of the COPS editing checklist prompts students to double-check their writing for organization. The checklist reminds students to make sure:
- Paragraphs are indented.
- Transition words connect ideas.
- Sentences are complete (no run-ons or fragments).
- Spacing is correct (words, paragraphs, & margins).
Punctuation
The third section of the COPS editing checklist prompts students to check their punctuation. The checklist reminds students to make sure:
- Sentences end with the correct punctuation.
- A comma is placed after transition words.
- Commas are used with items in a list.
- Dialogue is set apart with quotation marks.
- Contractions have an apostrophe.
Spelling
The final section of the COPS editing checklist prompts students to check their spelling. The checklist reminds students to make sure all words are spelled correctly. Students should use a dictionary to check words they think might be spelled wrong. This will get them in the habit of using a dictionary.
We Are Teachers compiled a list of 10 common grammar mistakes made by students. Click here to see the list.
Implementation
When it’s time to start editing, instruct students to proofread their paper four times, focusing on one of the four COPS criteria for each reading. This will make the editing process more manageable and less overwhelming for students.
The COPS editing strategy is a useful tool for teaching students how to edit their writing. You will be amazed at how quickly your students learn the steps and start using them independently.
Want to start using the COPS editing strategy with your students right away? Click the link below to download the FREE COPS editing checklist today!
Why stop with just one when you can get a bundle of COPS editing resources???? Click the link below to preview the comprehensive set of COPS teaching materials, including multiple sizes of the checklist, classroom posters, bulletin board lettering, and a digital version to use in your Google Classroom.
COPS Editing Checklists and Teaching Materials
Get all of these great resources for one low price! With these materials, you will save time and ensure that your students have everything they need to succeed. Don’t wait! Download the COPS editing materials today! Still unsure? Click here to preview what’s included.
Need a lesson plan for teaching students how to write an organized paragraph? Click here!