Comparing tone and methods in non-fiction texts
I can compare how two writers convey their viewpoints through tone and methods.
Comparing tone and methods in non-fiction texts
I can compare how two writers convey their viewpoints through tone and methods.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Identifying the overall tone of a text can help to understand the writer’s attitude.
- Comparing the tone used by each writer makes for a subtle point of comparison
- When writers share similar attitudes, it is possible to evaluate the different methods they use to convey these ideas
- Always consider why the author has selected the form that they have
Keywords
Incredulous - unwilling or unable to believe something
Authoritative - if you appear authoritative you seem knowledgeable and command respect
Introspective - to look inward or examine one’s own thoughts or feelings
Defiant - to show resistance or disobedience
Provocative - this describes something that stirs up strong reactions or emotions
Common misconception
Rhetorical devices always have the same effect.
Although we can make some assumptions about the effect of devices, considering specific information like the writer's intention and form will give a much more detailed and nuanced explanation.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Comparing tone and methods in non-fiction texts, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Comparing tone and methods in non-fiction texts, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the Spoken language: the language of change unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You will need access to the texts: 'A letter to the Dreamers' by Serena Williams and 'Freedom or Death' by Emmeline Pankhurst. This can be found in the additional materials.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
A phrase used to provoke thought. It does not require an answer.
A writer speaks to the audience usually using the pronoun "you".
Repeated used of words or phrases for emphasis and effect.
A short personal story or account.