New
New
Year 6
Writing the conclusion of a persuasive letter to Sherlock Holmes
I can write the conclusion of a persuasive letter, using a range of cohesive devices.
New
New
Year 6
Writing the conclusion of a persuasive letter to Sherlock Holmes
I can write the conclusion of a persuasive letter, using a range of cohesive devices.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Writing is most successful when structure, content and vocabulary are planned.
- The conclusion should use a range of persuasive techniques to drive home the point of the letter.
- Within the paragraph, ideas are connected using cohesive devices.
- A formal letter finishes with a sign-off from the writer.
Keywords
Persuasive technique - a structure or device used in writing to try to change someone’s mind or behaviour
Cohesive devices - language structures that develop text cohesion
Semi-colon - a punctuation mark used to connect two complete sentences
Gratitude - thankfulness to someone for something they have done
Common misconception
Pupils may use a semi-colon in an incorrect position.
What is either side of the semi-colon must be capable of being a complete sentence; the two parts must be closely-related to each other in meaning and content.
Encourage lots of oral rehearsal before writing and give children access to the Cohesive Devices Bank while writing. A slide is left lined for you to complete shared writing with the class; refer to the video for ideas for how to do this.
Teacher tip
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on
Open Government Licence version 3.0
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Starter quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
Which cohesive device has been used here? 'The police have been hopeless: they have hardly done any investigation at all.'
relative complex sentence
semi-colon
compound sentence
Q2.
Which cohesive device has been used here? 'I know you will be more helpful because you have skills that the police do not.'
relative complex sentence
compound sentence
colon to explain
Q3.
Which cohesive devices could be used to connect these two ideas? 'I was hoping the police would be helpful. They have not been of any use.'
the subordinating conjunction 'as'
the fronted adverbial 'in addition' following a semi-colon
Q4.
Which example joins these ideas correctly? 'I am desperate for your help. I am completely desperate.'
I am desperate completely desperate for your help.
I am desperate (I am completely desperate) for your help.
Q5.
Which example uses a colon to explain correctly?
I am furious they have: been completely useless.
I am furious they have been: completely useless.
Q6.
Which two persuasive techniques are used here? 'I know that you will have already thought of a solution: your incredible powers of investigation are unmatched.'
rhetorical question
veiled threat
Exit quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
Which of these examples are expressions of gratitude?
You have now read all my arguments.
I have set out what I believe to be true; now, you can decide whether to help.
Q2.
Which of the following are we likely to find in the conclusion to a persuasive letter?
detailed reasons and evidence
Q3.
Which of the following expressions of gratitude have the appropriate formal tone for a persuasive letter to Sherlock Holmes?
Thanks so much for reading my letter!
I'm so glad you've read this letter.
Q4.
Which example here uses a semi-colon correctly?
Thank you so much for your help it is; truly appreciated.
Thank you so much; for your help it is truly appreciated.
Thank you; so much for your help it is truly appreciated.
Q5.
Which of these is not a rhetorical question?
Surely you can see that you must help?
Do you not agree that this must be resolved immediately?
Q6.
Which is the most appropriate sign-off to a persuasive letter to Sherlock Holmes?
Can't wait to hear from you,
All the very best,
Lots of love,
Additional material
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