Characterisation is the way an author and illustrator describes and develops the personalities and traits of the characters in a story.

Comparing involves identifying similarities between two or more things, ideas, themes or texts.

Contrasting involves identifying differences between two or more things, ideas, themes or texts.

Exploring characterisation in 'Oliver Twist'

English

In 'Oliver Twist’, pupils read and discussed a classic narrative. In ’Beowulf’, pupils will read and discuss another classic book written in a different form.

In 'A Christmas Carol’, used the book as stimulus for their writing. In ’Oliver Twist’, pupils will read and discuss another book written by Charles Dickens.

'Oliver Twist': reading

Depiction of scary, confusing or unsettling events or characters placed in danger, including creation of a scary atmosphere through the use of music and sound.

Depiction or discussion of upsetting content

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of violence or fighting, including threats of violence or the aftermath of violence.

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

They took a long time to unpick to be resold for money.

Why were embroidered handkerchiefs not desired by Fagin?

True or False? Oliver initially believes that the boys have stolen the items they are showing Fagin.

the way an author and illustrator describe and develop characters

identifying similarities between two or more things

identifying differences between two or more things

Who does Fagin say for Oliver to look up to as a role model?

Which of the following is Fagin compared to within the chapter?

Who is the author of the original source material that 'Oliver Twist' is based on?

'Oliver Twist' is set during which time period?

Oliver is orphaned and sent to work in a workhouse.

Match the following information from reading Chapter 1.

a very poor area where lots of people lived

a grand and luxurious residence for royalty

True or False? Oliver had a positive upbringing.

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of upsetting content

Depiction or discussion of sensitive content

Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering

Adult supervision recommended

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Exploring characterisation in 'Oliver Twist'

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.