[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ width=”100%” max_width=”100%” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.24.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” max_width=”100%” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”intro” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Although this page focuses on formal language and formal voice, it also relates to all forms of voice in all genres. Teaching students about voice in writing is valuable; teaching students how to use formal language in writing is essential.<\/p>\n
Interestingly, I approach this by connecting formal language to the Six Traits of Writing, framing it as \u201cformal voice.\u201d This connection builds on what students already know, making the concept less intimidating and rigid. I emphasize that formality has degrees. This helps students understand that they are not losing their voice but instead learning to control and adapt it.<\/p>\n
The term \u201cvoice\u201d in the \u201cSix Traits of Writing\u201d model helps students see that learning formal language is about expanding their writing skills. Students passionate about writing often feel restricted by formal language, so it\u2019s helpful to show them that formal voice is just another tool in their repertoire. The reality is that formal voice relates to several or most of the Six Traits in one way or another. Equally important is that it relates to GENRE, which is a passion of mine. Here is a brief explanation of how formal language relates to traits and genre.<\/p>\n
1. Conventions and Grammar:<\/strong> <\/span>Conventions and grammar are the rules that guide formal writing. They ensure that your language is clear, precise, and professional. This makes readers more likely to understand and take your message seriously.<\/p>\n 2. Voice:<\/strong><\/span> Voice in formal writing is about adapting your unique style to fit a professional tone. It\u2019s not about losing your personal touch but adapting it to meet the expectations of your audience. A strong formal voice maintains your individuality while aligning with the standards of professional clarity.<\/p>\n 3. Genre:<\/strong><\/span> Genre shapes how formal language is used in writing. Different genres have different expectations for formality. Whether crafting a business report or an academic essay, understanding the genre helps you apply the right level of formality, ensuring your writing fits its purpose and respects your audience.<\/p>\n Please note that I think of genre in the way that Netflix, Rotten Tomatoes, and Wikipedia do. There is a primary genre, and we add adjectives to specify, clarify, and identify exactly what a piece of writing is. We also use these specific genres to target our readers\u2019 expectations and requirements. Various genres require formal voice. Others don\u2019t. Many eschew it. <\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”how” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”14px|16px|14px|16px|true|true” border_radii=”on|9px|9px|9px|9px” border_width_all=”8px” border_color_all=”#1258b2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Due to wide reading, some students naturally understand the correct voice, tone, and style for many types of writing. They can easily differentiate and mimic various writing styles. Many students prefer a colloquial or conversational voice and resist changing it, viewing formal writing as dull. Some students don\u2019t grasp formal voice, while others rebel against it.<\/p>\n To meet the needs of students with differing skill levels, understandings, and beliefs about writing, I use engaging activities that illustrate the use and relevance of formal voice. Through various examples and interactive exercises, I show them how formal language can be dynamic and powerful. By demonstrating formal voice in engaging activities, students see it as a valuable and essential tool rather than a constraint.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s take a look at some of these exercises!<\/p>\n Comparing only two styles of writing can be limiting. Using three comparisons provides a broader understanding of formality. This technique is echoed in storytelling, where three examples create a clearer picture:<\/p>\n Studies have shown that explicit instruction in voice and style significantly improves students\u2019 writing abilities. A study by Graham and Perin (2007) found that writing instruction focusing on specific traits, such as voice, improves writing performance across various genres. Another study by Fisher and Frey (2013) emphasizes the importance of modeling and practice in teaching formal writing skills, highlighting that students benefit from seeing and practicing different levels of formality.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”2 groups strategies” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”14px|16px|14px|16px|true|true” border_radii=”on|9px|9px|9px|9px” border_width_all=”8px” border_color_all=”#1258b2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n We will look at two groups of activities. The first group focuses on exploring and understanding voice, tone, and style. The second set of activities addresses formal voice more directly.<\/p>\n Have students write about an experience or describe something from three different age perspectives. This can be as short as a sentence or a paragraph.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Describe a day at the park from the perspective of a child, a teenager, and an older adult.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Write about a visit to a museum from the viewpoint of a young child, a college student, and a retired historian.<\/p>\n Read about a historical figure or event from three sources aimed at different audiences, such as an encyclopedia, textbook, and a student-generated article.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Compare accounts of Abraham Lincoln\u2019s presidency from a children\u2019s book, a high school history textbook, and a scholarly article.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Examine descriptions of the Apollo 11 moon landing from a kid\u2019s science book, a high school textbook, and a NASA astronaut\u2019s autobiography.<\/p>\n Show three news sources covering the same story, illustrating a range from professional to wacky.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Compare news coverage of a current event from CNN, BuzzFeed, and The Onion.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Look at different reporting styles for a major weather event from BBC News, The Daily Mail, and the Today Show.<\/p>\n Use three different video learning sources with varied styles and target audiences, such as a documentary, a kid\u2019s educational series, and a cartoon or entertaining science show.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Watch a National Geographic documentary, a Bill Nye the Science Guy episode, and a SciShow video on YouTube about the same scientific topic.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> View an in-depth lecture from a university professor, a Ted-Ed animated lesson, and a fun, quirky explanation from CrashCourse on the same historical event.<\/p>\n Students find a model for the voice they want to use in their report writing (e.g., a news anchor) and write a paragraph describing the observed voice, tone, and style. Then, they read their paragraph in that voice.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Write about a news report in Walter Cronkite\u2019s voice, using his formal tone, style, and concise language.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Mimic the reporting style of Diane Sawyer, focusing on her balanced, professional, and engaging delivery.<\/p>\n In small groups, students read writing samples using their chosen formal voice.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Read a speech excerpt in the style of Martin Luther King Jr., focusing on his formal and impactful delivery.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Perform a section of a presidential address by John F. Kennedy, emphasizing his formal yet approachable tone.<\/p>\n Encourage students to imagine a panel of British-accented advisors guiding them to write formally. Teachers can join in with their best British accents as a fun model.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Write a letter to a business as if it were composed by Jane Austen and Charles Dickens.<\/p>\n Example:<\/strong><\/span> Compose an essay as if Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth 1 stood over your shoulders, commenting on your style.<\/p>\n These methods make learning formal voice engaging and fun, helping students see it as an exciting challenge rather than a constraint.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”importance” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”14px|16px|14px|16px|true|true” border_radii=”on|9px|9px|9px|9px” border_width_all=”8px” border_color_all=”#1258b2″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The significance of formal writing extends beyond the classroom. It prepares students for various academic and professional settings where formal communication is essential. Research supports the benefits of teaching formal writing. Graham and Perin (2007) highlight that students who receive direct instruction in writing strategies, including formal voice, show marked improvement in their writing quality. Additionally, Applebee and Langer (2013) found that consistent practice and exposure to formal writing enhance students\u2019 ability to convey complex ideas effectively.<\/p>\n Formal writing also plays a critical role in developing students\u2019 critical thinking skills. According to a study by Hillocks (2010), formal writing tasks encourage students to organize their thoughts, make logical connections, and present arguments coherently. This process not only improves writing proficiency but also enhances overall cognitive development.<\/p>\n Voice is a central component of the Six Traits of Writing model, which includes ideas, organization, voice, word choice, sentence fluency, and conventions. The voice trait focuses on the writer\u2019s unique style and personality in their writing. When students learn to write formally, they are not suppressing their voice but instead adapting it to suit a specific audience and purpose.<\/p>\n Teaching formal writing within the framework of the Six Traits helps students understand that voice can be versatile. They learn to adjust their tone, style, and level of formality based on the context. This adaptability is crucial for effective communication across different genres and settings.<\/p>\n For example, a student might use a casual, conversational voice in a personal narrative but switch to a formal, authoritative voice in a research paper. Understanding these distinctions empowers students to make conscious choices about their writing style to strengthen their writing competence.<\/p>\n Moreover, formal writing instruction aligns with the voice trait by emphasizing clarity, precision, and appropriateness of language. Students learn to craft sentences that convey their intended message with the right level of formality, ensuring their voice remains strong and clear.<\/p>\n The conventions trait in the Six Traits of Writing model covers the mechanical correctness of writing, including grammar, punctuation, spelling, and capitalization. Proper use of conventions ensures that the writing is clear and readable, which is crucial for effective communication. Grammar, specifically, involves the rules that govern the structure of sentences, the correct use of words, and the syntax that helps express meaning accurately.<\/p>\n Formal writing and voice are inherently linked to conventions and grammar because they all contribute to the overall quality and clarity of the writing. Here\u2019s how they interconnect:<\/p>\n 1. Consistency and Clarity:<\/strong><\/span> A consistent and appropriate voice is essential in formal writing. This consistency is supported by proper conventions and grammar, ensuring that the writing is understandable and error-free. For instance, a formal research paper should consistently use academic language and correct grammar to create credibility and clarity.<\/p>\n 2. Precision and Professionalism:<\/strong><\/span> A formal voice often requires precise language and sophisticated sentence structures, which demands a firm grasp of grammar and conventions. Using correct punctuation, for example, helps convey the intended meaning clearly and professionally, creating a formal tone.<\/p>\n 3. Reader Expectations:<\/strong><\/span> Audiences have different expectations for different genres of writing. Formal writing must meet high grammar standards for readers to take it seriously. This respect for rules reflects the writer\u2019s respect for the audience and the subject matter.<\/p>\n 4. Voice Authenticity:<\/strong><\/span> Even in formal writing, the writer\u2019s voice should be authentic and engaging. Proper use of grammar and conventions allows the writer\u2019s voice to shine through without being overshadowed by errors. This is particularly important when trying to balance formality with personal style.<\/p>\n To illustrate the connection between formal writing, voice, and conventions, consider these examples:<\/p>\n Voice:<\/strong> <\/span>The essay maintains a formal, authoritative voice appropriate for an academic audience.<\/p>\n Conventions and Grammar:<\/strong><\/span> The essay uses proper grammar, punctuation, and academic vocabulary to ensure clarity and credibility. Errors in these areas could undermine the formal voice and distract the reader.<\/p>\n Voice:<\/strong><\/span> The report has a formal and professional tone, which is essential for business communication.<\/p>\n Conventions and Grammar:<\/strong><\/span> Correct use of conventions, such as bullet points, headings, and proper sentence structure, enhances readability and professionalism. Using these conventions supports the formal voice required in business contexts.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=”conclusion” _builder_version=”4.27.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Teaching formal writing through the lens of voice in the Six Traits of Writing model provides students with a comprehensive understanding of how to adapt their writing to different contexts. It prepares them for academic and professional communication while strengthening their ability to express themselves clearly and effectively.<\/p>\n Formal language, voice, conventions, and grammar are interconnected components of using formal voice. Teaching students to master these elements prepares them for various writing tasks, guaranteeing they can communicate effectively and appropriately in any writing situation.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Although this page focuses on formal language and formal voice, it also relates to all forms of voice in all genres. Teaching students about voice in writing is valuable; teaching students how to use formal language in writing is essential. Interestingly, I approach this by connecting formal language to the Six Traits of Writing, framing […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":" Students need to be taught how to use formal language in report writing. You can add a little bit of variety and a little bit of fun to report writing if you treat it more like \u201cformal voice.\u201d After all, there are degrees of formality\u2026<\/p> The term \u201cvoice\u201d is used in the \u201cSix Traits of Effective Writing\u201d model. We want students to know that they are learning to write with voice and not that we are taking away their voice. Students who love to write sometimes feel they are losing their voice when they learn that they must use formal language in report writing.<\/p> Many students naturally understand the correct voice, tone, and style for report writing. They have read a lot of this kind of writing and they understand the style. They more easily see the difference between styles of writing and can easily imitate them. For some, it is the writing voice they naturally hear in their head when they write.<\/p> Other students hear a different voice in their head when they write. It\u2019s a more colloquial voice and they don\u2019t want to change it.\u00a0 They don\u2019t want to write in \u201cthat boring style.\u201d Some of these students don\u2019t really understand \u201cformal voice\u201d and some seem to rebel against \u201cformal voice.\u201d<\/p> Teaching report writing voice with a comparison of two is a mistake. There is not just:<\/p> There is a range to formality and three is the magic number for comparison. We can take a lesson from storytelling (and character development) that when you want to show comparison, three is the magic number.<\/p> Notice in these three fairy tales, comparison<\/span> is a prominent theme:<\/strong><\/p> \u2022\u00a0Goldilocks and the Three Bears The list goes on and on\u2026<\/p> It\u2019s becoming easier and easier to find three different samples on a particular subject designed for three different audiences and which contain three different voices. It is a little bit of work, but well worth it when teaching \u201cvoice\u201d in writing. (Many of the ideas below are kid created and you don\u2019t have to do a thing.)<\/p> \u2022\u00a0Have students write about an experience or describe something from three different age perspectives. This works even if they just write a sentence or a paragraph from these three different age perspectives. It doesn\u2019t have to be a long piece of writing for students to engage in using different voices.<\/p> \u2022\u00a0Read about a historical figure or event from three different sources designed for three different audiences. (Ex. Encyclopedia, text book, student generated from the internet.)<\/p> \u2022\u00a0Show three different news sources reporting the same news story. These days there are quite a few news sources to choose from and they range from stoic to downright wacky at times.<\/p> \u2022\u00a0Use three different video learning sources with different styles and\/or designed for different audiences. Examples: Have students:<\/strong><\/p> \u2022\u00a0Find a model (or models) for a voice they want to communicate in their report writing. (A television news anchorperson etc.) Have them write a paragraph describing what they observe in the voice, tone, and style of that person. Have them read their paragraph in their newfound voice.<\/p> \u2022\u00a0Role play in small groups reading samples of writing using a voice they want to have in their report writing.<\/p> \u2022\u00a0Have an imaginary panel of advisors hanging over their shoulder advising them as they write and edit. This panel of advisors will all have British accents and encourage writing in the utmost formal manner.<\/p> \u2022\u00a0Teachers, can you do a proper British accent? If so, kids identify with this as being formal and fun!<\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[15,381],"tags":[74,60,115,61,54,112,394,113,110,114,116],"class_list":["post-392","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-six-traits-of-writing","category-teaching-report-writing","tag-elementary-language-arts","tag-elementary-report-writing","tag-formal-language","tag-homeschool-report-writing","tag-ideas-for-teaching-writing","tag-middle-school-report-writing","tag-six-traits-of-writing","tag-six-traits-voice","tag-teaching-report-writing","tag-teaching-voice","tag-voice-in-writing"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/392","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=392"}],"version-history":[{"count":12,"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/392\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5299,"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/392\/revisions\/5299"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=392"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=392"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/patternbasedwriting.com\/elementary_writing_success\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=392"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}How to Teach Formal Voice to Students of Different Skill Levels<\/h2>\n
Effective Instruction: Using Comparison and The Rule of Three<\/h3>\n
\n
Research That Supports Teaching Formal Voice<\/h3>\n
Practical Strategies and Techniques for Teaching Formal Voice<\/h2>\n
1. Writing from Different Perspectives<\/h3>\n
2. Historical Comparisons<\/h3>\n
3. News Comparisons<\/h3>\n
4. Video Comparisons<\/h3>\n
More Strategies and Techniques for Teaching Formal Voice<\/h2>\n
1. Model Identification<\/h3>\n
2. Role-Playing<\/h3>\n
3. Imaginary Panel<\/h3>\n
The Importance of Formal Writing and Its Connection to Voice in the Six Traits of Writing<\/h2>\n
Research and Significance<\/h3>\n
Connecting Formal Writing to Voice in the Six Traits of Writing<\/h3>\n
How Formal Writing and Voice Relate to Conventions and Grammar in the Six Traits of Writing<\/h2>\n
Understanding Conventions and Grammar<\/h3>\n
The Relationship Between Formal Writing, Voice, and Conventions<\/h3>\n
Practical Examples<\/h2>\n
Example 1: Academic Essay<\/h3>\n
Example 2: Business Report<\/h3>\n
Conclusion<\/h2>\n
Some Get It\u2026 Some Don\u2019t Want To!<\/h3>
Direct Instruction in Formal Voice for Report Writing: Three is the Magic Number for Comparison<\/h3>
1. Report Writing Voice<\/h4>
2. Non-Report Writing Voice<\/h4><\/td>
1. Right<\/h4>
2. Wrong<\/h4><\/td>
1. Formal<\/h4>
2. Not Formal<\/h4><\/td>
1. On<\/h4>
2. Off<\/h4><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>
\u2022\u00a0The Three Little Pigs
\u2022\u00a0Three Billy Goats Gruff<\/strong><\/p>Ideas for Teaching Formal Voice through Comparison and Using the Rule of Three<\/h3>
1.\u00a0A documentary.
2.\u00a0A kid\u2019s educational video series (Standard Deviants etc.)
3.\u00a0A cartoon type or one of those nutty science guys. (Beckman\u2019s World etc.)<\/p>More Ideas for Teaching Formal Voice in Report Writing<\/h3>