Characterisation is the way an author and illustrator describes and develops the personalities and traits of the characters in a story.

Comparing involves identifying similarities between two or more things, ideas, themes or texts.

Contrasting involves identifying differences between two or more things, ideas, themes or texts.

Exploring characterisation in 'Oliver Twist'

English

Introducing the context of 'Oliver Twist'

Building comprehension of 'Oliver Twist' through rich discussion

Turning points in 'Oliver Twist'

Exploring and engaging with themes in 'Oliver Twist'

In 'Oliver Twist: reading’, pupils read, discussed and explored a classic narrative. In ’Beowulf: reading’, pupils will read, discuss and explore an epic poem.

In 'A Christmas Carol': narrative writing and reading', pupils used a text as a stimulus for their writing. In ’Oliver Twist: reading’, pupils will read, discuss and explore another text written by Charles Dickens.

In this unit, pupils read and explore a version of Charles Dickens' novel, 'Oliver Twist'. They explore characterisation within the text, make predictions and engage in rich discussions about the plot. Finally, pupils identify and engage with the key themes in the text.

'Oliver Twist': reading

Depiction of scary, confusing or unsettling events or characters placed in danger, including creation of a scary atmosphere through the use of music and sound.

Depiction or discussion of upsetting content

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

They took a long time to unpick to be resold for money.

Why were embroidered handkerchiefs not desired by Fagin?

True or False? Oliver initially believes that the boys have stolen the items they are showing Fagin.

the way an author and illustrator describe and develop characters

identifying similarities between two or more things

identifying differences between two or more things

Who does Fagin say for Oliver to look up to as a role model?

Which of the following is Fagin compared to within the chapter?

Who is the author of the original source material that 'Oliver Twist' is based on?

'Oliver Twist' is set during which time period?

Oliver is orphaned and sent to work in a workhouse.

Match the following information from reading Chapter 1.

a very poor area where lots of people lived

a grand and luxurious residence for royalty

True or False? Oliver had a positive upbringing.

Exploring characterisation in 'Oliver Twist'

Lesson outcome

Content guidance