The Right Style
Jan
4
Written by:
1/4/2010 11:37 AM
What is the 'correct' style for a blog post? When I first started blogging, I decided that my blog should be pretty serious. After all, one wants to be taken seriously, so it's logical that an article with a serious intent should be written in a serious manner.
But there are degrees of seriousness. If a blog post comes across as too didactic, it may prove useful, and may even be bookmarked for future reference. But it won't be enjoyed necessarily.On the other hand, some blogs go too far the other way in my opinion. Blog posts which use the occasional swear word may be funny, but you can't really share them professionally.
I experienced something like this before blogs came on the scene. Back in 1998 I saw a hilarious diatribe against the internet by a British comedian called
Ben Elton. I should have loved to have shown it at my next Ed Tech Co-ordinators' Day; unfortunately, the use of a swear word at a crucial point made it an untenable prospect.
One of the things I am growing weary of, when I read some blogs, is their underlying arrogance. In my opinion, blogs are meant to encourage conversation, but it's difficult to feel confident to start a conversation with someone whose tone already suggests that theirs is the only valid viewpoint. I have to say, it is almost exclusively men who have this trait in my experience.
In
my own writings, I have become increasingly conversational in tone. I'm writing more and more often in a way that is closer to speaking than writing. I'm not sure if that is objectively good or bad, but it feels right for me.
And I think that is the crucial point. When it comes to blogs, which, after all, started their existence as personal web logs or journals, we need to find our own voice and our own style. Only if we enjoy the act of writing will others enjoy the act of reading it.
Surely that is the standpoint we must adopt in schools too? For example, should youngsters be asked to 'correct' their grammar or not to use text-speak in their blogs? Should they even be asked to correct their spelling?
If I were back in the classroom now, I think what I'd like to do is encourage my pupils to experiment in lots of different ways when writing their blogs. I try out different things myself, sometimes writing list-style articles, other times writing longer, more discursive pieces. Occasionally I even experiment with fiction writing. As far as I'm concerned, experimentation is fundamentally necessary, in the same way that exercise is necessary.
Let's make 2010 the year of trying out new ways to express ourselves in blogs!
8 comment(s) so far...
The Right Style
I have really struggled with this on my blog. I know I come across as 'lecturer' like at times but I have a lot yet to learn as a writer so I fear improvement may be a ways off.
In the classroom I am a bit of a 'chalkntalker' too and I doubt that helps :(
I think I will make a change in tone a priority for my blog this year.
By Scribbler on
1/4/2010 4:53 PM
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The Right Style
As a secondary English teacher, I find myself increasingly more concerned with teaching English skills for the 21st century. Finding a voice for writing heads the list for teaching writing skills, not only for scholarly papers but also for posted blogs. The article aligns with my goals for 2010. Thank you for this great article.
By Sandi Moser on
1/5/2010 8:56 AM
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The Right Style
Thx everyone for yr thoughtful replies.
@Scribbler. I know what you mean. When I read some of my older posts I cringe inwardly for my 'teacher' voice. Perhaps it's a matter of confidence too: on the odd occasion that I wrote something personal, people responded by appreciating the personal touch and not, as I feared, by castigating me for not being professional enough.
@Steve. Yes, I think you're right. An part of the issue for me is that I'm blogging for myself, but as I'm an independent consultant, I'm also blogging for my business!
I too like to include graphics, and I absolutely agree with you that linking to every other word is unnecessary. In fact, IMO, it makes the article unreadable.
I haven't heard of that particular book, but I've heard that advice, which I think is good, so thank for that :-)
@Sandi Thx, I like your phrase 'finding a voice for writing': nicely put! Good luck with your goals.
By Terry Freedman on
1/5/2010 11:02 AM
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The Right Style
I agree with blogging according to your personality and what you hope to accomplish. Good points in your article.
By Carol Ssilvis on
1/5/2010 11:14 AM
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The Right Style
If your blog is a personal blog, then I think the appropriate tone is one that best reflects your own voice and personality. If you are a serious person, let that come through. If you see the lighter side of life, or like to debate, or make outlandish assertions to get a reaction, do that.
If, however, you are blogging for an institution or business, you must of course think that you are not only representing yourself but others.
In my blog, I like to include a photo, graphic, or video to help illustrate a point. I try to limit my hyperlinks to sites that add value to my piece, not just serve as an online resource for every possible phrase.
Years ago when I was an active HS English teacher one of my favorite books, now out of print I am sure, was WRITING TO BE READ by Ken Macrorie. HE advocated the reading aloud of what we write to see how it flows. I still do that, and I urge others to as well. So I agree with using a conversational style in one's personal blog.
By Steve Taffee on
1/5/2010 6:05 AM
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The Right Style
Thx Carol :-)
By Terry on
1/7/2010 9:55 AM
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The Right Style
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The Right Style
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