Comparing tone and methods in non-fiction texts
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can compare how two writers convey their viewpoints through tone and methods.
Key learning points
- Identifying the overall tone of a text can help to understand the writer’s attitude.
- Comparing the tone used by each writer makes for a subtle point of comparison
- When writers share similar attitudes, it is possible to evaluate the different methods they use to convey these ideas
- Always consider why the author has selected the form that they have
Keywords
Incredulous - unwilling or unable to believe something
Authoritative - if you appear authoritative you seem knowledgeable and command respect
Introspective - to look inward or examine one’s own thoughts or feelings
Defiant - to show resistance or disobedience
Provocative - this describes something that stirs up strong reactions or emotions
Common misconception
Rhetorical devices always have the same effect.
Although we can make some assumptions about the effect of devices, considering specific information like the writer's intention and form will give a much more detailed and nuanced explanation.
Teacher tip
This lesson uses texts explored in depth in L1 and L2 of this unit. If these lessons haven't been completed, students will need time to read the articles. When teaching this lesson, it can be effective to allow students to read the example sentences and texts aloud to experience the different tones.
Equipment
You will need a copy of Emmeline Pankhurst’s speech, ‘Freedom or Death’ which can be found in the additional materials and 'A letter to the dreamers' by Serena Williams, published by Porter, 2016.
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.Emmeline Pankhurst's 'Freedom or Death' speech was delivered in 1913. What century is this?
Q2.Match the rhetorical device with the correct definition.
A phrase used to provoke thought. It does not require an answer.
A writer speaks to the audience usually using the pronoun "you".
Repeated used of words or phrases for emphasis and effect.
A short personal story or account.
Q3.When a text appeals to the reader using the pronoun 'you' this is an example of...
Q4.Which of these features would you find in a letter, but not in a speech?
Q5.Pankhurst uses the imagery of warfare and fighting throughout her 'Freedom or Death' speech. This is an example of an .
Q6.In 'Freedom or Death', Pankhurst compares the history of politics to "a hungry baby" and an "impatient baby". What rhetorical device is this?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which answer offers the best description of the word introspective?
Q2.Which word beginning with 'I' can be described as: unwilling or unable to believe something.
Q3.What method is Pankhurst using in this quote: "you have to make more noise than anybody else".
Q4.In Pankhurst’s 'Freedom or Death' speech she describes being “determined” and a “soldier”. Which word best describes the tone created?
Q5.Which rhetorical device is described as a personal account or story?
Q6.In 'Freedom or Death', Pankhurst uses battle imagery to emphasise the aggressive methods required for change. This is different to Williams in 'Letter to the Dreamers' who uses similar imagery to...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Comparing tone and methods 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: Comparing tone and methods 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 Spoken language: the language of change unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.