6 Trait Writing – Word Choice

English II

What is word choice?

The purposeful selection and use of words and phrases that fit audience, purpose, and topic.

Why is word choice important?

Read the following sentences.– As she walked through the courtroom she knew that the jury

would find the man who killed her best friend guilty.– As she breezed through the courtroom she was keenly

aware that the panel of people playing God would surely seal the assassin’s destiny.

You tell me – what was the difference between the two sentences? Did they have the same meaning? Why would the author choose these words?

How does an author use word choice?

Adjectives Figurative Language

– Similes– Metaphors– Personification

Sensory language Knowledge of audience Knowledge of purpose

Sensory Language

They could taste the fear as they approached the damp, green field holding the hand of the player next to them. They knew that today, even though they smelled victory, would be their only chance to prove to their fans that they would dominate all year.

Let’s Talk Adjectives

Adjectives are words that describe a noun.– Let’s try it – Look into your book bag or purse or folder.– Take an object out.– Tell the person next to you three words that

describe this object. (15 seconds) – Repeat this with the other partner.

– Share out some adjectives!

Figurative Language

Simile – Let’s recall what a simile is:– Her shirt was as bright as the sun.– He looked like a cat at hunt.

Metaphor- Let’s recall what a metaphor is:– “Time is a dressmaker specializing in alterations.“– As he walked by, that clumsy ox knocked the table over.

Personification – Let’s recall what personification is:– "Fear knocked on the door. Faith answered. There was no

one there."

Knowledge of Audience

Who is your audience? Why are they listening/reading your work?

– To prove someone innocent or guilty

– To entertain– To inform

Knowledge of Purpose

The author needs to know his/her intent when writing. – To persuade– To inform– To entertain– To describe

What does good word choice look like?

The writing is clear, original, and precise The language matches the writer’s purpose and audience Words are lively and distinctive; new or unusual words are

clear, thoroughly defined, and used correctly The writer achieves a strong, consistent balance-not inflated,

not simplistic Powerful verbs give the writing energy and create vivid imagery Modifiers are used with restraint to enrich meaning, voice, or

imagery, they are NEVER overdone.

Good Word Choice Tips

Make sure you use words correctly; don’t add an unwanted

meaning. If you need to use a dictionary or thesaurus. Example: I sprayed the ants in their private places. Revision: I sprayed the ants in their hiding places.

Avoid wordiness, be as concise as possible.Example: I came to the realization that…

Revision: I realized… Limit your use of clichés

Example: Last, but not least…

Revision: Lastly…

Questions to ask yourself

Am I sure what each word I use really means? Am I positive, or should I look it up?

Have I found the best word or just settled for the most obvious, or the easiest, one?

Have I chosen the most precise word? Have I created my own words, or have I simply

borrowed what looked like key ones from the assignment?

Have I used strong verbs and colorful phrases? Did I repeat common words too many times?