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      Using nominalised verbs and adjectives to write effective arguments

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can write an effective argument, which meets an ambitious success criteria.

      Key learning points

      1. Excellent writing will have a consistent tone of voice
      2. Excellent functional writing will include figurative language and use semantic fields, to extend imagery throughout
      3. Excellent writing will make use of structural devices for effect
      4. Excellent writing will have a focused viewpoint throughout
      5. Excellent writing will contain high-level spelling, punctuation and grammar, including nominalised sentences

      Keywords

      • Concise - Being concise means giving information clearly in as few words as possible.

      • Abolished - If something is abolished, it is banned or outlawed.

      • Disapprobation - If someone expresses their disapprobation, they are expressing their displeasure or disapproval.

      • Progressive - Somebody progressive would support a fairer, more equal or more advanced future.

      Common misconception

      Students often believe that longer sentences are more sophisticated.

      Great writing needs to be concise. Students should be aiming for precision, rather than sophistication.

      Teacher tip

      Before setting students off to complete task A in learning cycle 1, see whether students know the noun form of the adjectives and verbs. If not, give these to them so that they can complete the task more confidently and efficiently.

      Equipment

      A dictionary is required for this lesson if the internet is not available.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

      Supervision

      Adult supervision recommended

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Which of the following is a verb?

      Correct answer: be
      table
      Correct answer: smirking
      candle
      Correct answer: consult

      Q2.
      Identify the noun in the following sentence: The bright jacket hung on the door.

      bright
      Correct answer: jacket
      hung
      on

      Q3.
      How many verbs are in the following sentence: I was in a state of extreme paranoia as I ran, panting down the road.

      one
      two
      Correct answer: three
      four

      Q4.
      Which of the following are synonyms for, or shades of 'red'?

      cerulean
      Correct answer: scarlet
      Correct answer: vermillion
      Correct answer: maroon
      cyan

      Q5.
      Which of the following words is a more provocative synonym for 'upset' in this sentence: I am upset that you are not taking this seriously.

      disheartened
      Correct answer: disappointed
      outraged
      bothered
      sad

      Q6.
      Which of the following phrases is the most persuasive?

      I firmly believe that this issue needs addressing.
      I think that this issue needs addressing.
      Correct answer: This issue needs addressing.
      In my opinion, this issue needs addressing.

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Nominalisation is the process of changing adjectives or verbs to << >>

      Correct Answer: nouns., nouns, noun, Nouns.

      Q2.
      How many verbs are in the following sentence? I am writing to you to request that you conduct thorough research into the issue.

      one
      two
      three
      Correct answer: four
      five

      Q3.
      Look at this sentence: The headteacher was inspired by a neighbouring school. What is the noun form of the verb 'inspired'?

      inspire
      inspirational
      Correct answer: inspiration
      inspirit

      Q4.
      Which of the following words can be substituted in for the word 'banned' in the following sentence: 'Driving under the influence of alcohol was banned ages ago'?

      adorned
      attoned
      Correct answer: abolished
      attended

      Q5.
      Starting with the first, put the steps you must undertake before writing in order.

      1 - Establish the form, audience and purpose of the task.
      2 - Decide on the perspective you will write from.
      3 - Choose three reasons to support your viewpoint on the topic.
      4 - Create single paragraph outlines for each of your paragraphs.

      Q6.
      Which of the sentences contains a nominalised verb?

      The company had been inspired.
      Correct answer: The company's inspiration was evident.
      The company was inspirational.
      The company's aim was to inspire.

      To help you plan your 11 English lesson on: Using nominalised verbs and adjectives to write effective arguments, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...