Writing a description of a dystopian setting

English

Understanding dystopias

Using accurate sentences to describe dystopian settings

Using compound sentences to describe dystopian settings

Using complex sentences to describe dystopian settings

Creating atmosphere in dystopian descriptions

Using similes to create atmosphere in dystopian descriptions

Using a range of sentence types to describe dystopian settings

Using punctuation accurately in dystopian descriptions

Using sophisticated punctuation in dystopian descriptions

Describing a setting to reflect dystopian themes

Using semantic fields to create a clear tone in dystopian writing

Planning a description of a dystopian setting

Using vivid imagery to describe dystopian settings

Using feedback to improve dystopian descriptions

Revising sentence and punctuation types for a dystopian description

In 'Dystopian Settings', pupils use figurative language to create their own dystopian settings. In 'A Monster Within', pupils explore how authors use Gothic settings to create mystery and atmosphere. 

In 'The Twisted Tree', pupils explore Gothic imagery in a contemporary text. In 'Dystopian Settings', pupils use their own dark imagery to write their own descriptive pieces.

In this unit, pupils learn to write atmospheric dystopian settings. They first review and deepen their understanding of sentence types, before looking at how to use figurative language and sophisticated punctuation to enhance their descriptions. They finally plan and write a dystopian setting.

Dystopian settings: descriptive writing

Subjects which particular individuals may be sensitive to, eg, adoption, migration, bereavement or death, divorce, poverty, deprivation.

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

have a thesaurus next to you to find ambitious synonyms

choose the first word that comes to your head

What should you do to guide effective vocabulary choices in descriptive writing?

when you need to separate two related clauses

when you want to add an extra piece of information to the middle of the sentence

When can a colon be used to enhance your work?

When can dashes be used to enhance your work?

What can you do when independently reflecting on whether you have used the correct spelling for an unfamiliar word?

__________ your work allows you to __________ your work.

What is the first thing to decide when planning a piece of descriptive writing?

The town was in ruin: smashed windows, abandoned vehicles and a rancid stench.

The town was in ruin due to its: smashed windows, abandoned vehicles and stench.

Smashed windows, abandoned vehicles and stench: therefore the town was in ruin.

I can remember how to write interesting sentences; I feel confident.

I can remember how to write interesting sentences I feel; confident.

I can remember how to write; interesting sentences I feel confident.

Which sentence uses the semicolon correctly?

People trudged along the derelict city, with weary hearts and hollow eyes.

People walked along the quiet city, with straight faces.

People pranced along the city, with animated expressions.

Which sentence matches a bleak tone most successfully?

'Had it always been like this?' is an example of a __________, __________ sentence.

Effective exclamatory sentences are most often...

Writing a description of a dystopian setting

Lesson outcome

Content guidance