writing where we are trying to convince someone to do something or to change their mind or behaviour

the detailed steps that led to something happening

language structures or devices used in writing to try to change someone’s mind or behaviour

the effect created by using serious, factual language

Identifying features of a persuasive letter written to Sherlock Holmes

English

In this unit, pupils learn to use persuasive devices for letter writing with increasing nuance.

In 'Persuasive Letter Writing: School Uniform', pupils learnt to use persuasive devices in letter writing to persuade the reader of the writer's position. In this unit, pupils will learn to use persuasive devices for letter writing with increasing nuance.

In this unit, pupils learn about conventions of detective fiction via one of the English canon's most famous series 'Sherlock Holmes'. They use knowledge of the central character to write a setting description and a persuasive letter from a member of the public in need of his services.

'Sherlock Holmes': descriptive and letter writing

Depiction or discussion of famine, disease, natural disasters.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

The person is in desperate need of help. 

Which of the following might make Sherlock Holmes want to take on a case? 

Put the features of a persuasive letter in the order they appear. 

Where in a persuasive letter would we most likely find the explanation of what needs investigating?

Which persuasive language feature has been used in the following sentence? 'Only you are capable of solving this mystery!'

Which persuasive language feature has been used in the following sentence? 'I look forward to hearing your solution in due course.'

Wouldn't it be thrilling to solve this puzzle?

Which of the following questions is a rhetorical question? 

Some things are made explicit by the author. Other things we must __________ from what is written. 

Holmes is single-minded when he wants to solve a crime.

Holmes is always considerate towards others. 

What inferences can we make from the following description? 'Watson was astonished to see Holmes standing over his bed at 3 o'clock in the morning, holding a pile of case notes.'

What character trait is shown in the following description? 'Holmes could instantly tell that the man was lying.'

What character trait is shown in the following description? 'I considered correcting him, but I decided not to.'

Holmes barely looked up as Watson came in.

Holmes raised an eyebrow as the man raised his gun. 

Which description shows that Holmes is 'unflappable'? 

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Identifying features of a persuasive letter written to Sherlock Holmes

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.