VoiceDo you know

what it is?

One day I was walking in the park with my dog. It was sunny. We were walking by a tree when a squirrel jumped out at us. My dog got scared and ran away. I had to chase him. I caught him. It was a long day. Does this have voice?

Voice

To figure out if your writing has voice, ask yourself these 3 questions:Does this writing sound like me?Did I say what I think and feel?Do you feel something when you read this?

One beautiful sunny day, I went for a walk with my dog. As we passed a tree, a squirrel popped out at us. My dog was startled by it and ran away from me. I had to scurry after him. Finally, I caught up to him. It was a long, but eventful day.

Which of the two stories has more voice?

Does this sound like a cheerleader?

Yes or No?

Does this sound like a nerd?

Yes or No?

Does this sound like a tree hugger

(environmentalist)?

Yes or No?

So remember…

Sounds like a real person coming through the writing

Writer is is involved and informed about the topic

The writing is focused on the purpose and written for the audience. Example, A book that is written for a kindergartener will be different than a book written for an adult.

Shows originality, liveliness, honesty, humor, and/or outside resources.

Details are placed with thought to strengthen the writing.

Now that you know what voice is, use it in all of your writing, and

VOICE ON!