Crafting physical description for malevolent characters
I can effectively craft a physical description of a malevolent character.
Crafting physical description for malevolent characters
I can effectively craft a physical description of a malevolent character.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Physical descriptions of characters shouldn't just be a list of what they look like or the clothes they are wearing.
- Physical descriptions of characters should use carefully chosen vocabulary to allow the reader to infer information.
- Linking physical description to a character's personality can make descriptions more effective.
- ‘Show not tell’ works on implied meanings.
Common misconception
Pupils will sometimes overload the physical description of their character and list each individual detail, often using cliches.
Describing every part of a character’s appearance in detail can overwhelm the reader. It's better to provide purposeful descriptions that integrate physical appearance with personality to create an engaging and convincing character.
Keywords
Inference - a conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning.
Show not tell - a method used by writers which focuses on allowing your reader to infer information instead of simply telling them directly.
Unyielding - doesn't give in to pressure.
Dishevelled - untidy; disordered.
Implied - suggested but not directly expressed.
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).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
a conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning
a method which focuses on allowing your reader to infer information
suggested but not directly expressed