Comparing tone and language choices in non-fiction texts
I can identify a writer's use of tone and consider how language is adapted to create this.
Comparing tone and language choices in non-fiction texts
I can identify a writer's use of tone and consider how language is adapted to create this.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Tone in writing refers to the attitude or feeling conveyed by a writer towards the subject matter and audience.
- Tone is conveyed through word choice, sentence structure, punctuation, and overall language usage.
- Writers will ensure their tone is appropriate for the text’s purpose, audience and form.
- Writers will adapt specific language features and rhetorical devices to match the tone of their writing.
Keywords
Incredulous - unwilling or unable to believe something
Defiant - to show resistance or disobedience
Provocative - this describes something that stirs up strong reactions or emotions
Authoritative - if you appear authoritative you seem knowledgeable and command respect
Common misconception
When used, rhetorical devices have only one possible effect or outcome.
Writers can craft rhetorical devices to create different tones and match their purpose, audience and form. For example, direct address can be used to sound confrontational or it can create an intimate and personal tone.
Equipment
You need access to the text: "First Suggestion" from 'Dear Ijeawele or A Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions' by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
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).
Lesson video
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