A whole range of useful resources to support student writing - mostly A-level but some could work for more able at GCSE: - WHALE analysis; my own approach for getting students to analyse texts in detail by thinking like a whale. Includes modelled example using 'A Streetcar..' and blank template. - Analysis framework for any play; in table format so can be laminated/ cut up and allocated to students/groups, depending on AO but could also be used as is. - Discourse markers - simple list of connecting words - I challenge students to use them whilst writing shorter pieces in class. -Comparative writing frame to help students compare two texts; blank templates and modelled example using The Bell Jar and A Streetcar Named Desire - Information sheets on the approach required for different kinds of A-level writing e.g. critical analysis, interpretive, using secondary critical material - Two writing mats which are totally based on an example of a writer's palette in David Didau's wonderful book, 'The Secret of Literacy- making the implicit, explicit' - a must for all teachers, in my opinion. One focuses on deep language analysis, the other on interpretive writing. I laminate at A3 size and keep copies in classroom at all times - can be used for slow writing activity or to support students during timed writing. - Powerpoint with general activities on classic mistakes students make whilst writing. Use as a starter OR for some directed practice/ mastery after they have written an essay.

Chart to fill in on courage - includes quotes from Martin Luther King jr to start thinking, an overview of courage in the novel and a chart to fill in.

An activity designed to help students prepare to answer the essay question, 'How far and in what ways do you agree with the view that Shelley presents knowledge as dangerous and destructive?' More importantly, the focus here is on getting them to use critical interpretations to help them develop their answers. Worksheets could be used for individuals, groups or pairs... leading to some writing of paragraphs, then the whole essay itself. Powerpoint a full lesson and includes exemplars and modelled approach to using critics - my springboard approach! Excuse my woeful gym metaphor but students seem to find it useful.

An introduction to Renaissance drama for A Level English Literature - my students are studying 'Hamlet' and 'The Duchess of Malfi'. A plastic skull would also be a useful, if not essential, teaching tool ! For the brave/stupid amongst you, get them to throw it to each other as they ask their 'big questions'. Also included a Renaissance drama knowledge planner. Credit also to 'Will' by Christopher Rush and 'Shakespeare's Restless World' by Dr Neil McGregor.

Arundhati Roy's 'The God of Small Things' is a wonderful A-Level novel - I taught as comparative coursework with Jez Butterworth's 'Jerusalem' (scheme of work to follow shortly) but this would work just as well as stand-alone for any aspect of the A-Level spec/course. It includes: - A full scheme of work - PowerPoints and activities lesson by lesson to take you through whole novel - Teacher notes, including really useful critical references I highly recommend purchasing the following for your reference/ school library: Routledge Guides to Literature: The God of Small Things, edited by Alex Tickell Continuum Contemporaries Series: The God of Small Things, edited by Julie Mullaney. All page references refer to Flamingo edition, 1997.

Four creative writing activities including prose and poetry - suitable for year 7 and up if dealt with correctly. fun and a bit different - tried and tested in my creative writing groups from year 7 to 13. Perfect for homeschooling.