a way of expressing ideas by using words or phrases that go beyond their literal meaning

a comparison of two things, often using the words 'like' or 'as'

a direct comparison of two things using the verb 'to be'

Using figurative language effectively for character description

English

In 'Malevolent Characters', pupils focus on a range of writing skills including how to describe the setting through action, create shifts in tone, paragraph effectively and use punctuation purposefully. In 'Science Fiction Writing', pupils further develop these writing skills, with a particular focus on the science fiction genre and how to write in this style. 

In 'Myths and Legends Re-Told', pupils explore the importance of narrative structure, looking at ways in which they can manipulate the traditional five-act structure. In 'Malevolent Characters', pupils delve deeper into the differences between narrative and descriptive writing, honing in on the skills needed to describe characters inspired by famous villains. 

In this unit, pupils create and write malevolent characters. They first look at the conventions of malevolent characters, before learning about the techniques they can use to present their malevolent characters. They finally plan and write their fiction with a malevolent character in it.

Malevolent characters: fiction writing

Her laugh was a sinister whisper in the dark.

His presence was like a shadow creeping across a moonlit path.

Which of the following is an example of a simile?

His presence was like a dark cloud hanging overhead.

The room was a tomb, silent and foreboding.

He crept through the shadows like a thief.

The fear was a cold, gripping hand around his chest.

She trembled as if caught in a winter storm.

His eyes darted around like a frightened animal.

Which sentence uses a metaphor to describe a character's fear?

One way to avoid {{}} is to add additional detail to make it specific to your character.

it helps to create vivid images for the reader

it makes the their writing sound more impressive

What are key reasons why writers include powerful examples of figurative language in their writing? 

A {{}} is a word used to describe an action, state, or occurrence.

a comparison between two things using the words 'like' or 'as'

A direct comparison of two things using the verb 'to be' is the definition of a {{}}. 

Which sentence uses an effective verb to describe a character’s movement?

Being clear what your {{}} is before writing will help you make more effective word choices.

it's in direct contrast to something else. 

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