A comprehensive approach to teaching writing that deals not only with style, but with the writer's inspiration and the tools and strategies that young writers need to write well. The book includes a series of rich, engaging writing prompts that teachers can use to help even the most mechanical writer begin to write with pizzazz and flair. The Write Voice is organized around seven strategies with appropriate prompts to help students seek and recognize inspiration.

• Sensory Statements: using the five senses to help the reader create a mental image
• Emotional Cues: using emotional connections to build mood
• Wordsmithing: building vocabulary and encouraging risktaking
• Developing Characters: setting the stage for action by creating interesting characters with voices of their own
• Perspectives: understanding that the person telling the story is as important as the story itself
• Personality: allowing the author's passion and creativity to shine through
• Style: helping students understand writing conventions as a way of strengthening voice and not distracting from it

The book illustrates countless effective ways students can experiment with their own writers' voice, engage in dialogue about their writing and the writing of their peers, and set personal goals as writers. It also addresses the importance of mentoring, setting success criteria, and consistent and ongoing peer and teacher feedback.

A caring and dynamic teacher, Lisa Donohue is passionate about creative solutions and innovative teaching techniques. Lisa has a strong background in the arts, and works collaboratively with other teachers in developing balanced literacy programs that foster student achievement. She was nominated as Teacher of the Year for 2010–2011, and is currently working as a Digital Literacy Resource Teacher with the York Region District School Board. Lisa lives in Newmarket, Ontario.

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The Write Voice: Using Rich Prompts to Help Student Writing Come Alive