Explaining how Akala uses patterns of language for effect in 'The Dark Lady'
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can clearly explain the effects of patterns and contrasts in language and images in Akala's 'The Dark Lady'.
Key learning points
- Writers often use patterns of words, phrases and images across a text.
- Writers may use contrast in addition to patterns in order to emphasise the importance of the pattern.
- Patterns are effective because our brains are wired to recognise and remember patterns.
- In the same way that words have deeper meanings and connotations, images can also symbolise something more.
Keywords
Pattern - any regularly repeated arrangement
Contrast - an obvious difference between two or more things
Semantic field - a group of words which share a similar theme and concept
Symbolise - to represent, express, or identify by a symbol
Connotation - a feeling or idea that is suggested by a word in addition to its basic meaning
Common misconception
That a pattern within a text is random and just happened by chance.
Patterns are a way for writers to emphasise certain information or convey importance onto a concept because our brains are wired to recognise and remember patterns.
Teacher tip
You may wish to look at some specific quotations around birds and ships to complement the work on the imagery - the poem on page 2 may be a good starting point.
Equipment
You will need a copy of the 2021 Hodder Children's Book edition of 'The Dark Lady' by Akala for this lesson.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Repetition means...
Q2.A regularly repeated arrangement is a...
Q3.A semantic field is...
Q4.The word 'explosions' has connotations of...
Q5.Which of the following do we associate with birds?
Q6.A feeling or idea that is suggested by a word in addition to its basic meaning is a...
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In Akala's 'The Dark Lady', which word is repeated to emphasise its importance?
Q2.In Akala's 'The Dark Lady', what is there a semantic field of to describe the magical room Henry and Joan use?
Q3.What does contrast mean?
Q4.Throughout Akala's 'The Dark Lady', there are repeated images of...
Q5.To represent, express, or identify by a symbol is to...
Q6.We think of birds and ships as both symbolising...
To help you plan your 7 English lesson on: Explaining how Akala uses patterns of language for effect in 'The Dark Lady', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 English lesson on: Explaining how Akala uses patterns of language for effect in 'The Dark Lady', 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.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 English lessons from the Step into the unknown: fiction reading and creative writing unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.