Linguistic features of descriptive writing
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify and explain linguistic features of descriptive writing.
Key learning points
- Descriptive writing uses figurative language to create vivid pictures in the reader's mind.
- Descriptive writing appeals to the reader's five senses: sight, sound, smell, taste and touch.
- Descriptive writing uses precise and ambitious vocabulary.
- Simile and personification are types of figurative language.
Keywords
Descriptive language - language that creates a clear picture for the reader that is often found in fiction texts
Figurative language - the use of simile and personification to paint vivid pictures for the reader
Simile - a linguistic device that compares two things using 'like' or 'as', highlighting similarities to create vivid imagery
Personification - a linguistic device that gives human characteristics to non-human objects to create vivid imagery.
Common misconception
Similes must compare two similar things.
While similes often compare two things with some shared characteristics, they can also highlight differences for emphasis or contrast.
Teacher tip
Use the corresponding 'Weather' lessons in 'Aspects of narrative' to more rigorously teach the meanings and precise usage of a wider variety of weather vocabulary.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Add the most appropriate adjective from the list below to complete this sentence: 'The __________ wizard cast a spell on the king.'
Q2.Match the correct form of the verb to each of the sentences.
Dad __________ to take an extra biscuit from the tin.
We __________ driving to Scotland this Saturday.
John __________ the bridge to get to work.
Carla __________ rock climbing at the sports centre.
Q3.What is the adverb in this sentence: 'Mr Smith's special chocolates mysteriously disappeared.'
Q4.Which adjectives best fit the gap in this sentence to make a noun phrase: 'Saira intends to buy __________ house .'
Q5.Which of these sentences contain adverbial phrases?
Q6.Complete the sentences by matching the first part of the sentence with the adverbial detail.
around the room.
extremely quietly.
whilst wading in the stream.
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which text type is descriptive writing typically found in?
Q2.Which are examples of human senses?
Q3.Which expanded noun phrases are best suited for a woodland scene?
Q4.Match two unlike things to create the most appropriate similes.
gold coins in the sunlight, creating a treasure trove.
ancient soldiers, guarding secrets of the woods.
a freshly picked apple, invigorating with each breath.
Q5.Which of the following is a correct simile?
Q6.Which of the following sentences uses personification?
To help you plan your 4 English lesson on: Linguistic features of descriptive writing, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 4 English lesson on: Linguistic features of descriptive writing, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 English lessons from the Weather: descriptive writing unit, dive into the full primary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.