VOICE & INFERENCE

WHAT IS VOICE?
voice refers to the words and phrases used. This gives the reader an idea of what a person is like, by what they say or write. How we say something is as important as what we are saying. People write with different audiences in mind. Your voice and word choice will often change depending on the audience.

Example.
Think about how the following people would sound if you were talking to them:
A young, hip Hollywood actress talking about the latest fashion trends A politician attempting to be re-elected Your grandmother/grandfather remembering how things were like when they were your age A grumpy boss, complaining about a customer A scientist explaining a new scientific discovery to his or her peers A wise old man, giving advice

What types of words were used?

Character A young, hip Hollywood actress talking about the latest fashion trends A politician attempting to be re-elected Your grandmother/grandfather remembering how things were like when they were your age A grumpy boss, complaining about a customer A nuclear physicist explaining a new scientific discovery A wise old man, giving advice Words

What if..
Think about how the following people would sound if you were talking to them:
A young, hip Hollywood actress speaking to a judge before sentencing on a drunk driving charge A politician after being defeated in an election Your parents speaking to your teacher about your bad behavior A boss, praising an employer for fantastic work A scientist, explaining a concept to a group of elementary students An old man, complaining about the loud music of teenagers

What types of words were used?

Character
A young, hip Hollywood actress speaking to a judge before sentencing on a drunk driving charge A politician after being defeated in an election Your parents speaking to your teacher about your bad behavior A boss, praising an employer for fantastic work A scientist, explaining a concept to a group of elementary students An old man, complaining about the loud music of teenagers

Words

Voice & Inference When Reading

When we are reading, how do we know what a character is like? Most times, we have to read between the lines and use clues to tell us what a characters personality is like. Reading between the lines is also referred to as inferring. It is the words that are spoken and written which provide us with clues

Voice and Inference when Writing

When we are writing, how do we make our characters come alive? It is the words spoken and the voice used that provide the reader with a clear picture of a characters personality as well as who you are as an author. When writing a letter to a friend, we use different words and phrases than if we were writing to our teachers (hopefully). Your voice as a writer makes your writing yours!