Analysing and comparing language techniques in non-fiction writing
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can analyse and compare the use of adjectives, listing and onomatopoeia for effect in non-fiction texts.
Key learning points
- Analysing methods helps us to consider the effect the writer is trying to have on the reader.
- Comparing the methods used helps us understand the writers' craft and how it relates to meaning.
- Both Dickens and Day use "crammed"; however Day uses juxtaposition to lessen the chaotic atmosphere.
- Dickens enhances the overwhelming atmosphere through listing and onomatopoeia.
- Day creates a calmer atmosphere by avoiding the use of listing and onomatopoeia.
Keywords
Juxtaposition - the fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect
Overwhelmed - to overpower the thoughts, emotions or senses
Semantic field - a group of words or phrases with a related meaning
Onomatopoeia - words that imitate the natural sound associated with their meaning
Cacophonous - having an unpleasant mixture of sounds
Common misconception
You can only compare methods that both writers use when comparing non-fiction texts.
It can be very effective to compare why one writer might choose to use a certain method while another writer may choose not to use it.
Teacher tip
It would be useful for pupils to share their notes on Task A to make sure they have all the necessary information in order to then compare the methods in Learning Cycle 2.
Equipment
You will need a copy of Dickens' 'Greenwich Fair' and Day's 'Are we having fun yet?'. There are copies available in the additional materials.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.'To overpower the thoughts, emotions, or senses' is the definition of feeling which word beginning with 'o'?
Q2.What is being described here: 'the words, ideas, feelings or concepts we associate with a word or symbol.'?
Q3.Which of the below are examples of word classes?
Q4.What word is missing from this definition of semantic fields: 'A group of words in some way'?
Q5.What semantic field has been used here? 'The fair buzzed with the cacophony of excited chatter, clattering rides, lively music and clanging amusements.'
Q6.'The fact of two things being seen or placed close together with contrasting effect' is the definition of which word beginning with 'j'?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Both Dickens and Day use which adjective beginning with 'c' to suggest busyness in 'Greenwich Fair' and 'Are we having fun yet?'?
Q2.Day the word "crammed" with "sipping" in 'Are we having fun yet?' to dampen the chaotic effect.
Q3.In 'Greenwich Fair', Dickens uses words like 'clanging' and 'squeaking'. We could say these are verbs.
Q4.Dickens enhances the busyness of "crammed" in 'Greenwich Fair' by using a of chaos.
Q5.By using listing throughout 'Greenwich Fair', Dickens arguably makes the reader feel which sensation beginning with 'o'?
Q6.'Having an unpleasant mixture of sounds' is the definition of which word beginning with 'c'?
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Analysing and comparing language techniques in non-fiction writing, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Analysing and comparing language techniques in non-fiction 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: changing views unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.