How do you write for a 6th grade reading level?

To write for a 6th-grade reading level, focus on clarity, simplicity, and directness by using short sentences, simple words, and an active voice.

Key Principles for 6th Grade Readability

Achieving a 6th-grade reading level means making your content easily digestible and understandable for a young audience, or anyone who prefers straightforward language. This involves specific writing techniques that prioritize clarity over complexity.

Simplify Sentence Structure

One of the most effective ways to lower the reading level of your text is by simplifying sentence construction.

• Write with short sentences. Long, complex sentences can overwhelm readers and obscure the main point. Break down intricate ideas into several shorter, punchy sentences.

  • Example:
    • Too complex: "The ancient civilization, which was known for its intricate irrigation systems and advanced astronomical observations, mysteriously disappeared around 1200 BC, leaving behind only ruins."
    • 6th-grade level: "An old civilization disappeared around 1200 BC. They had good ways to water crops. They also watched the stars closely. Only ruins remain from their time."

• Avoid adverbs and adjectives. While descriptive words can add flair, too many can make sentences cumbersome and less direct. Focus on strong nouns and verbs instead.

  • Example:
    • Too many modifiers: "The beautiful, quickly running stream gently flowed downhill over the smooth, wet stones."
    • 6th-grade level: "The stream ran over the stones. It flowed downhill."

Use Clear and Direct Verbs

The way you use verbs significantly impacts readability. Keeping them simple and direct helps maintain a clear flow of information.

• Use simple verb tenses (past, present, future). Stick to the most common and easily understood verb tenses to avoid confusion. Avoid conditional or perfect tenses where simpler alternatives exist.

  • Example:
    • Complex tense: "He would have gone if he had known."
    • Simple tense: "He did not go. He did not know."

• Use active voice. Active voice makes it clear who is performing the action, leading to more direct and understandable sentences. Passive voice can be wordy and less engaging.

  • Example:
    • Passive voice: "The ball was thrown by the boy."
    • Active voice: "The boy threw the ball."

Tools for Checking Readability

After writing, it's crucial to check your content's readability score. Several online tools can analyze your text and provide a grade level.

• Hemingway App: This tool highlights complex sentences, passive voice, adverbs, and suggests simpler alternatives, helping you refine your writing for clarity.
• Readable: Used by professionals like Adobe Design's Content Strategy team, Readable offers various readability scores, including the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, which is widely used to determine text difficulty.

These tools provide valuable insights and direct feedback, enabling you to adjust your writing until it meets the desired 6th-grade reading level.

Enhancing Comprehension and Flow

Beyond specific grammar rules, overall presentation and organization contribute significantly to how easily a 6th grader can understand your content.

Practical Writing Tips

• Use familiar words: Opt for common, everyday vocabulary. If a complex term is necessary, explain it simply.
• Break down complex ideas: If you have a multi-part concept, explain each part separately. One idea per paragraph can be a good rule of thumb.
• Focus on one main point: Each paragraph or section should convey a single primary message.

Formatting for Clarity

Effective formatting enhances readability for all audiences, especially younger readers.

By consistently applying these principles and utilizing readability tools, you can effectively craft content suitable for a 6th-grade reading level, ensuring your message is clear, direct, and easy to understand.