Using modality in persuasive letter writing
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain the purpose of modality and use it for effect in my own persuasive writing.
Key learning points
- Modal verbs are verbs that indicate likelihood, ability, permission or obligation.
- We might sort modal verbs into categories of low, medium and high modality.
- Words with low modality may convey a sense of uncertainty to your writing.
- Words with high modality are considered the most persuasive since they convey confidence and obligation.
Keywords
Modal verb - verbs that indicate likelihood, ability, permission or obligation
Persuade - convince (someone) to do something through reasoning or argument
Compelled - having to do something, because you are forced to or feel it is necessary
Obligation - an act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment
Common misconception
It is the content of your argument that makes it persuasive rather than the construction.
The way you construct your argument directly impacts how persuasive it is to the reader.
Teacher tip
It might be useful to spend more time considering further examples of how words with medium modality may create a less aggressive tone.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.'A written, typed or printed communication, sent in an envelope by post or messenger' is the definition of which word beginning with 'l'?
Q2.'Done in accordance with convention or etiquette; suitable for something official' is the definition of which word beginning with 'f'?
Q3.In a formal letter, if you know the recipient's name is Ian Smith then which of the following salutations could you use?
Q4.In a formal letter, if you have used the name of the recipient as the salutation then you should which of the following as a sign off?
Q5.'Convince (someone) to do something through reasoning or argument' is the definition of which word beginning with 'p'?
Q6.In a formal letter, which of the following goes in the top right-hand corner of the letter?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.'Verbs that indicate likelihood, ability, permission or obligation' are the definition of verbs.
Q2.Match the modal verb with the level of modality.
low modality
medium modality
high modality
Q3.Arguably, words with high modality convey a sense of __________ in your writing.
Q4.'Having to do something, because you are forced to or feel it is necessary' is the definition of which of the following?
Q5.Arguably, words with modality are the most effective for persuasive writing.
Q6.'An act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment' is the definition of which word beginning with 'o'?
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Using modality in persuasive letter writing, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Using modality in persuasive letter 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 4 English lessons from the Non-fiction: letter writing unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.