The Write Spot

The 6+1 Traits: VOICE

When writing, Voice is said to be the writer’s presence on the page. It is the quality in writing that makes the reader want to read on. 

The four key writing qualities of the Voice trait are:

1. Establishing a tone - The writer cares about the topic, and it shows. The writing is expressive and compelling. The reader feels the writer’s conviction, authority, and integrity.
2. Conveying the purpose - The writer makes clear his or her reason for creating the piece. He or she offers a point of view that is appropriate for the mode (narrative, expository, or persuasive), which compels the reader to read on.
3. Creating a connection to the audience - The writer speaks in a way that makes the reader want to listen. He or she has considered what the reader needs to know and the best way to convey it by sharing his or her fascination, feelings, and opinions about the topic.

Taking risks to create voice - The writer expresses ideas in new ways, which makes the piece interesting and original. The writing sounds like the writer because of his or her use of distinctive, just-right words and phrases.

Some Year levels in the school were given the following writing task and here are some examples of their work:

Learning Intention: To write a descriptive piece about something you don’t like, that makes a reader hear your message and pulls them in with your use of TONE and VOICE.

Want to try this at home?

Write a descriptive piece about an emotion you connect with. 

If you would like to share this with us, please email georgina.drew@education.vic.gov.au and sarah.hance@education.vic.gov.au and we will feature a selection in the next newsletter

References: The 6+1 Traits of Writing by Ruth Culham