2. Voice Do you know what it is?

3. 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?

4. 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?

5. 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?

6. Does this sound like a cheerleader? Yes or No?

7. Does this sound like a nerd? Yes or No?

8. Does this sound like a tree hugger (environmentalist)? Yes or No?

9. So remember…

10. 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.

11. Now that you know what voice is, use it in all of your writing, and VOICE ON!