Reading 'The Twisted Tree': exploring and creating similes
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify and explain a writer's use of simile and use to create my own description.
Key learning points
- Martha has a vivid nightmare about the tree.
- Martha allows Stig to stay.
- The tree has a symbolic meaning that will be revealed throughout the novel.
- Similes can be used to create vivid imagery and help the reader experience what is being described.
- When crafting similes, they need to be plausible, draw relevant comparisons and not be confusing for the reader.
Keywords
Forlorn - sad, lonely or devoid of hope
Desolate - abandoned and joyless
Oblivion - lack of awareness or consciousness; nothingness
Temperamental - unreliable or changing quickly
Malice - evil; the desire to harm someone
Common misconception
As long as I have used "like" or "as", I have created an effective simile.
Consider this simile: 'Her voice was like a salad.' The comparison is unclear and doesn't enhance understanding.
Teacher tip
In LC2, you may wish to use specific examples from 'The Twisted Tree' when exploring how similes can be used effectively. If you have previously completed lesson 2 (introducing the setting of 'The Twisted Tree), Task B could be completed as a way to develop the writing from this previous lesson.
Equipment
You will need access to the text 'The Twisted Tree' by Rachel Burge, published by Hot Key Books, 2019.
Content guidance
Contains strong language
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
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.In 'The Twisted Tree' the character Mormor is Martha's ...
Q2.'The Twisted Tree' can be described as a thriller
Q3.Which two words beginning with 'p' and 'f' can be used to describe a device where the weather reflects the mood of the main character?
Q4.Which of these two words could be used to describe a typical atmosphere of a Nordic thriller?
Q5.Which two words does the writer use in 'The Twisted Tree' to describe the tree?
Q6.Which of these sentences would not be considered pathetic fallacy?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In 'The Twisted Tree' what is the name of the boy that Martha finds living in the cabin?
Q2.Which of the following sentences contains a simile?
Q3.Which of these words best describes the setting in 'The Twisted Tree'?
Q4.In 'The Twisted Tree', the writer uses a simile to describe Stig. What does she compare Stig to?
Q5.Which of these definitions best describes the word 'forlorn'?
Q6.In 'The Twisted Tree', the writer describes the tree as having "arms" that can "snatch". This is an example of ...
To help you plan your 7 English lesson on: Reading 'The Twisted Tree': exploring and creating similes, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 English lesson on: Reading 'The Twisted Tree': exploring and creating similes, 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 'The Twisted Tree': fiction reading unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.