This engaging lesson explores the complex and often controversial role of monarchy in modern society, focusing on the ways differing perspectives shape public debate. By examining the appeal of controversy, students learn how disagreements can drive deeper inquiry and foster critical thinking. Through comparing writers’ viewpoints, they evaluate both the advantages and challenges associated with monarchies. Pros such as historical and cultural significance, symbolic unity, political stability, and economic benefits like tourism are analysed against contrasting views. The lesson encourages students to think critically, form balanced arguments, and consider how monarchy’s symbolic and practical roles influence national identity and political discourse. Buy this lesson to inspire informed debate, critical analysis, and nuanced understanding of modern monarchy’s place in society! Link to FULL SOW: https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/opinion-writing-sow-gcse-english-language-paper-2-skills-13149240 ENGLISH LANGUAGE GCSE PAPER TWO SKILLS - Comparing Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives

This thought-provoking lesson introduces students to the complexities of controversial issues by exploring differing viewpoints on gun control in the media. By analysing key terms such as “controversial” and discussing why controversy draws public interest, students learn how debates can sharpen critical thinking and reveal deeper truths. Using compelling statistics and viewpoints related to gun control, students will evaluate contrasting perspectives, including those rooted in the Second Amendment debate in the U.S. They will compare how different writers present their arguments and consider the persuasive techniques employed. This lesson encourages nuanced understanding, analytical skills, and thoughtful reflection on the role of controversy in shaping public opinion. Buy this lesson to spark meaningful discussion and develop your students’ ability to critically engage with complex social issues! GCSE English Language Paper Two Skills: Title: Controversy in the Media – Comparing Writers’ Viewpoints and Perspectives on Gun Control FULL SOW: https://www.tes.com/teaching-resource/opinion-writing-sow-gcse-english-language-paper-2-skills-13149240

This engaging lesson encourages students to explore the debate around compulsory voting, using real-world data and case studies to analyse voter behaviour and political participation. Through interactive activities such as mind-mapping reasons for and against voting, examining key terms like voter apathy and turnout, and analysing recent UK election data, students develop a comprehensive understanding of the challenges facing democratic systems. By studying global examples and reading an opinion piece in favour of mandatory voting, students reflect on its potential impact on civic engagement. The lesson culminates in writing an opinion piece either supporting or opposing compulsory voting, with a focus on crafting persuasive arguments supported by evidence. Buy this lesson to inspire critical thinking and meaningful debate about democratic participation and civic responsibility!

A Scheme of Work (SOW) that I made for my KS3 Year 9 English class, it is focused on GCSE English Language Paper 2 Skills. It uses ‘relevant’ topics such as whether or not Barbie is a feminist masterpiece, whether or not guns should be banned in the US and also focuses on things such as compulsory voting (there is a whole lesson dedicated to the recent UK General Election of 2024 for this) and issues such as capital punishment. My class really got on quite well with this last year, you can easily adapt it too! Not all lessons have powerpoints, but most do.