1. Voice Tips Know your characters!
What is the age, social status, personality, life experience of this character?  Where does the character live, who and what does the character care about?  What does this character like to do?  What is the character afraid of?  What does the main character want most of all?  This is the lens through which every thought, word, and action should be crafted so that the character seems genuine and that the character’s words are consistent with her/his experience, feelings, and motivations.
Put yourself in the character’s shoes!
How would a teacher say this?  How might your grandma say it?   
Consider the audience!
How would you say it if you were speaking to the president?  How would you say it if you were speaking to your best friend?  Can you name the tone? Is it serious? Academic?  Friendly?  Humorous?  Look at the words you chose – are they serious, academic, friendly or humorous? Every word must match the tone!

2. “Eleven” Narrative Task
Sandra Cisneros’s use of powerful similes and striking details helps the reader understand how Rachel thinks and imagine how Rachel feels. Similes, such as describing the sweater as a “big red mountain,” showcase Rachel’s ability to grasp sophisticated ideas while also capturing her childlike perspective. Today, you are going to practice using figurative language and imagery in your own writing. Your task is to compose a personal narrative that retells the story of Rachel and the red sweater from the teacher’s point of view. Please be sure to: 1) Use first-person point of view for the story’s narration. 2) Include at least four different types of figurative language that help convey how the main character is feeling. Underline and label each type. 3) Use 3-D writing—which means to be sure to appeal to at least 3 of the reader’s senses.