9.13 CW

​What does it mean when we talk about 'writing style?'

Open Ended

If you were asked to analyze, or talk about, a particular author's WRITING STYLE, what would be a few key elements that you would look for/describe?

​Here are some examples of how an author’s writing style may vary:

• Wordiness – How much your narrative uses longer, run-on sentences versus short and choppy ones. Syntax – The structure of your sentences, the emphasis, pauses, word order and general style of writing typical sentences.

• Word choice – This can mean swearing or not, using more complex words versus simpler ones, and more. The word choice in your writing style can help readers understand the perspective of the narration.

• Tone – The tone in writing is like the attitude the author has toward a subject matter. If they dislike something, the tone could be short and negative, the opposite if they enjoy what they’re writing about.

• Mood – The mood differs from tone because it’s the overarching feeling readers take away through the writing. The mood can be altered through the use of tone, word choice, and other literary devices.

• What do you notice about the writing style?

• What do you notice about the word choice?

• What is the tone of the passage? Why do you think this?

• What do you notice about the writing style?

• What do you notice about the word choice?

• What is the tone of the passage? Why do you think this?

• What do you notice about the writing style?

• What do you notice about the word choice?

• What is the tone of the passage? Why do you think this?

Open Ended

How would you describe your own writing style? For example, if I opened a piece of your writing, and it didn't have your name attached, how would I immediately know that it was yours?

​Imitation writing is not a COPY. It is YOUR content, but with a focus on the STYLE of another writer.

​Through imitation, you find your OWN voice!

Open Ended

Write a sentence using a strong verb to connect one part of your life with another. For example, you could connect a book you are reading and your mother’s dinner preparations, as Maya Angelou does; or you could connect a classroom lecture with sounds outside. Be creative. Use an exact verb (like cushioned), one which connotes the attitude you want to convey.