Developing Voice in Writing

Students will identify compelling voice in mentor texts by determining the emotions that are exposed by the author. After recognizing what strong voice sounds like in literature, students will work to improve their own writing. Designed for grades 3-5, includes handouts.

A list of picture books that can serve as mentor texts for the concept of voice in writing. Scroll down for professional titles.

Students analyze the voices in two samples of writing (included).

Students analyze the 4 voices in Voices in the Park by Anthony Browne. Then they plan how to revise using different voices. Access requires Adobe Reader and a word processor.

High school students practice developing voice by imitating writing by David Sedaris or Amy Tan. Includes links to other writers with strong voices.