Using structural features effectively in non-fiction texts
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can understand how a writer uses structural features for effect and use this understanding to consider my own use of structure in my writing.
Key learning points
- Considering structural features is an important part of the writing process.
- Openings should be impactful and can include declarative sentences and similes.
- Mirroring can be used to create an effective closing.
- Using a motif can engage a reader and emphasise the viewpoint in your writing.
Keywords
Impactful - to have a strong effect on someone
Declarative sentence - a sentence that makes a statement, expresses an opinion or states a fact
Motif - in writing, a motif is an idea, image, or symbol, that repeats throughout to develop a theme or argument
Mirroring - you repeat and develop an idea from the start of your writing at the end
Common misconception
Choosing vocabulary and ideas is the most important part of the writing process.
Structural features can really elevate your writing, making it more cohesive and impactful so that your reader doesn't lose interest.
Teacher tip
You may want to spend time at the start of the lesson reading or re-reading Charlie Brooker's article 'Bring Back Hanging?' and modelling how to identify and explore structural features.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the article 'Bring Back Hanging?' by Charlie Brooker, which can be found in the additional materials.
Content guidance
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.Which word beginning with 'I' describes a writer saying something but meaning the opposite, usually for exaggeration and effect?
Q2.What is the form of this task: 'Write an opinion article which presents your point of view on school uniform.'?
Q3.Which of these are synonyms for the word 'credible'?
Q4.What device has this opening sentence used: 'Like a badly swatted fly, the debate will not die.'?
Q5.Which of these sentences uses statistics?
Q6.Which of these sentences would be considered informal?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the purpose of creating impactful openings and closings in a piece of writing?
Q2.Which of these may not be considered a structural feature?
Q3.What is a declarative sentence?
Q4.Which of these is a declarative sentence?
Q5.What device is being described? is where you repeat and develop an idea from the start of your writing at the end.
Q6.Complete this sentence. A motif is where ...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Using structural features effectively in non-fiction texts, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Using structural features effectively in non-fiction texts, 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 4 English lessons from the Non-fiction: crime and punishment unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.