Effect of writer's methods intervention

This was an observed outstanding lesson and resources used to improve students’ comments on the effect of writer’s methods.

Often, examiners and teachers report that students’ comments on the effect on the reader are too generic and do not demonstrate an understanding of writer’s methods. This lesson and resources helps students to identify the errors in responses, understand the purpose/effect of methods and practice writing developed and relevant explanations of the effects of writer’s methods. The final task also allows students to take on the role of the writer making language choices for a particular effect.

The starter focuses on recall of the mark scheme (with a help sheet for support) to identify errors in examples with an extension task to redraft responses making the suggested improvements. The improved answers appear visually to the students in green and is a great opportunity for teachers to address misconceptions e.g. the difference between empathy and sympathy.

The second task is a table (not an exhaustive list) of devices with examples (on a range of topics) where students practice writing the effect of writer’s methods, making sure they are relevant to the method and topic. There is an extension task to add devices to the list and come up with their own example with it’s purpose/effect. This is peer-assessed and an opportunity for AFL by asking students to raise their hand if they have 2 or more correct for example. If so, students can move to the next task.

The final task is a timed writing task where students practice using devices for effect. The challenge is a slow-writing task to ensure students are conscious of every sentence they write and encourage students who rush work to slow down. This is self-assessed through the labeling of devices. Students can create their own target and green pen this action next lesson or for homework.