Using semantic fields to create a gothic atmosphere
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use semantic fields to create a restrictive atmosphere.
Key learning points
- A semantic field is a set of words that are related in meaning.
- Semantic fields can challenge us to use more ambitious vocabulary.
- Semantic fields can help us to be less repetitive when selecting our vocabulary.
- It can be useful to plan your use of vocabulary (within the semantic field) before you begin writing.
Keywords
Semantic field - a group of words that all share similar meanings
Connotations - the associations we make with a word - what the word reminds us of
Vivid - producing strong, clear images in the mind
Oppressive - if something is oppressive, it makes people feel uncomfortable or it is cruel and unfair
Common misconception
Students do not recognise the value in using semantic fields - they think that semantic fields are just a method that they can spot in other writers' texts.
Using semantic fields can help us to include figurative language, such as extended metaphors. They are means of including other methods - they are not necessarily a stand-alone method.
Teacher tip
It could be nice to get the students to complete Task B as a starter task at the beginning of the lesson, before they have been taught anything. They can then compare their responses from the beginning and the end of the lesson to see how much their vocabulary and artistic choices have improved.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1. is the mood or feeling of a piece of writing.
Q2.Pathetic fallacy is...
Q3.An extended metaphor is...
Q4.Why is the moon often present in Gothic settings?
Q5.What does oppressive mean?
Q6.Which of the following story openings creates the most ominous atmosphere?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a semantic field?
Q2.Which of the following words would you use to create a restrictive atmosphere?
Q3.A is the association we make with a word - what the word reminds us of.
Q4.Which of the following words has connotations of mystery?
Q5.Which word has the most aggressive connotations?
Q6.Which of the following descriptions creates the most vivid imagery?
To help you plan your 8 English lesson on: Using semantic fields to create a gothic atmosphere, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 8 English lesson on: Using semantic fields to create a gothic atmosphere, 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 3 English lessons from the A monster within: reading and writing Gothic fiction unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.