how a text is written to keep the reader engaged

shows a character’s feelings by describing their actions, body language and facial expressions

a sentence formed of at least one main clause and a subordinate clause

Writing the build-up of ‘The BFG’ (part two)

English

In this visual literacy unit, pupils learned how to use use precise vocabulary to  mirror the film director's choice. In the next visual literacy unit, 'Aladdin', pupils will analyse a scene from a clip to use as as a stimulus for writing and generating descriptive vocabulary.

In 'Lucky Dip', pupils learned how to write complex sentences using a range of joining conjunctions. In 'the BFG', pupils recap and consolidate using complex sentences in descriptive writing. 

In this unit, pupils write their own version of two sections of narrative based on 'The BFG', using their exploration of the original text by Roald Dahl in the accompanying reading unit. Pupils write a narrative opening and build-up, using literary devices to meet specific purposes.

'The BFG': reading and narrative writing

True or false? If a scene builds up suspense, it makes the viewer feel sad.

A {{}} sentence is formed of a main clause and a subordinate clause joined by a subordinating conjunction.

The girl gasped when she saw the figure staring at her. 

The girl gasped, when she saw the figure staring at her. 

The girl gasped, when she saw, the figure staring at her. 

The girl gasped when she saw, the figure staring at her. 

Her breathing quickened and she stifled a scream. 

As she hid under the covers, her heart pounded in her chest. 

Match each sentence type to its example. 

Her legs are shaking as she runs across the room.

Her legs were shaking as she ran across the room.

Her legs shake as she is running across the room.

Her legs were shaking as she runs across the room.

Which sentence is written in the past tense?

The figure removed potion from a suitcase and he blew it out of his trumpet.

The figure turned towards Sophie and she ran to her bed.

Sophie hid under her covers as the giant's hand grabbed her. 

Put the three key moments of the second part of the build-up in chronological order.

Choose an appropriate fronted adverbial to start the following sentence: '__________ the girl sprinted across the room.' 

Slowly the figure twirled his long, golden trumpet. 

Slowly, the figure twirled his long, golden trumpet. 

Slowly the figure, twirled his long, golden trumpet. 

Slowly, the figure twirled, his long, golden trumpet. 

Which of these nouns must start with a capital letter?

Which is the adverbial phrase in the following sentence? 'In shock, Sophie leaned out of the window.' 

Starter Quiz