KS3 English Language skills. A series of 2 lessons based upon the novel Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins. Focus is on the first and last chapters. Students will need to read and identify the language techniques used by Collins to create a sense of fear and suspense. Examples given of the techniques which could be used and sample analytical paragraphs to model for the class. Differentiation in the depth of the analytical paragraph is suggested, and in the selection of the language or structural technique. Chapter extracts not supplied. Copy of images for analysis and sample paragraphs for students to study are supplied.

A series of lessons to teach each poem. Simon Armitage’s “Mother any Distance” and Grace Nicholl’s “Praise Song for my Mother”. Includes detailed focus on poetic techniques, annotated slides for display in the classroom. Questions to focus student’s ideas and understanding and suggested answers. Sample PEE sentence starters and suggested responses. Copies of both poems included, and a scaffold sheet for students to use to write their assessment if needed.

An exploration of an extract from the opening of the Handmaid’s Tale by Atwood. Students have a short literary quiz to recap information previously learned. There is then a discussion of the possible symbolism in an image from the current TV series to explore and comment on. Students are then given an extract to write an analytical paragraph and explore Atwood’s use of language and structure. Suitable for preparation for GCSE English Language Question 3

An extract from George Orwell’s 1984 (the rat one!) and a lesson showing students how to explore structure in a text - and how a writer can use this for effect. Preparation for the GCSE Language paper Question 4. Also explores Orwell’s use of language and how this is used for effect. Contains a scaffolded paragraph to help students create their own response. Contains the extract required from the novel. Starter activity introduces “Fear” and provides an interesting subject for discussion.