An author's style is his or
uses an informal, conversational style, as if he or she were talking to a friend.
Although many factors contribute to an author's style, two key elements are
diction and syntax.
Diction: choice of words and phrases; for example, you might describe an
author's diction as formal, conversational, old-fashioned, or technical.
Syntax: ways in which an author arranges words in a sentence; for example, you
might describe an author's syntax as simple, complex, exclamatory, or flowing.
A. DIRECTIONS: Read the passage. Then, answer the questions.
She took a deep breath, feeling the wind in her hair as she rushed down the
hill on her bike. It was exhilarating, to feel such freedom! She had never
moved so fast, and the feeling was powerful. She could be a bird, or a rocket.
She felt like she was flying!
1. Which answer choice best describes the writer's diction?
a. formal and difficult
b. simple and plain
c. descriptive and playful
d. humorous and unclear
2. Which answer choice best describes the writer's syntax?
a. short and straightforward
b. energetic and exclamatory
c. flat and steady
d. complicated and mellow
3. Which answer choice best describes the writer's style?
a. humorous and sarcastic
b. formal and sophisticated
c. informal and light-hearted
d. proud and practical