Definition for Word Choice

Word Choice is where the writer creates a mental picture for the reader by using words that are specific and accurate. The writer uses strong action verbs whenever possible to give the writing energy. The adjectives are as descriptive as possible.

Rubric for Word Choice...The Best Words for Your Ideas

Instructions:

• Read the paper all the way through.

• Read the criteria item and enter Y for Yes, N for No, and S for Sort of.

• Mark your score in the space provided.

• Give 1 point for each Y, 1/2 point for each S and 0 points for each N
  
  ___ ___ This is the best way to say this.
  
  ___ ___ The writer's words make pictures in your mind.
  
  ___ ___ The writer uses words that are new ways to say everyday things.
  
  ___ ___ The writer's verbs are powerful, the writer's nouns and adjectives are specific and precise.
  
  ___ ___ Some of the words linger in your mind after you read them.

 

Lesson Plans for Word Choice

Lesson Plans, Grades 1-3

Lesson Plans, Grades 4+5

Literature to Illustrate Word Choice

Please click on the underlined, linked author's name to pursue an author study.

Book Title	Author
Wilma Unlimited	Kathleen Krull
The Old Man and His Door	Gary Soto
Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge	Mem Fox
Storm Boy	Paul Owen Lewis
Yo! Yes?	Chris Raschka
Ashanti to Zulu: African Traditions	Margaret Musgrove
Verdi	Janell Cannon
I Love You the Purplest	Barbara M. Joosse
Have You Seen the Trees	Joanne Oppenheim
My Grandma Lived in Gooligulch	Grame Base
Amber on the Mountain	Tony Johnson
Double Trouble in Walla Walla	Andrew Clements
Sports Pages	Arnold Adoff
The Magic Fan	Keith Baker
The Lotus Seed	Sherry Garland
The Storm	Marc Harshman
Many Luscious Lollipops	Ruth Heller
Shrek	William Steig

 

Samples for Word Choice

Samples, Grades 1 - 3

Samples, Grades 4 + 5

Web Resources for Word Choice

Descriptors for Word Choice
Examples 2
Examples 3

How to Use Word Choice that Catches the Reader's Eye