Planning and writing a 'Small Island' essay
I can plan and write a developed, analytical response.
Planning and writing a 'Small Island' essay
I can plan and write a developed, analytical response.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- You need to include an introduction and thesis statement about the writer's intention.
- Each paragraph begins with a topic sentence, also based on the writer's intention.
- Form is important - we need to consider stagecraft and the ways in which the novel was adapted.
- Comment on a range of methods, including characterisation and setting.
- Planning is an important part of the writing process.
Common misconception
Many students often think that planning isn't a useful step in the writing process and that it takes too long.
How might planning help to organise our thoughts into a coherent response? How can planning improve the efficiency of the writing process?
Keywords
Thesis - The overarching argument to an essay, supported by the entire text.
Characterisation - The process of creating and developing characters. This can be through dialogue and physical description.
Logical - In essays, this means your points will be well sequenced.
Stagecraft - Using theatrical techniques to write and produce plays. This includes things like setting and lighting.
Dramatic techniques - Refers to the specific techniques used in plays to create theatrical effects e.g direct address.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the play 'Small Island' written by Andrea Levy and adapted for the stage by Helen Edmundson
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
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
"England is where the future lies"
"In England I will have a big house with a bell on the front door"
"I will be a teacher, greeted with manners and respect"
Exit quiz
6 Questions
Overarching argument, supported by the whole text.
The first sentence of a paragraph; the paragraph's main idea.
References to the text which support your topic sentence.
The final sentence of a paragraph; concludes the paragraph’s ideas.
Sums up your essay’s overall thesis.