New
New
Year 11
Eduqas
Using inverted sentence structures and chiasmus for effect
I can use sophisticated sentence structures to create specific effects.
New
New
Year 11
Eduqas
Using inverted sentence structures and chiasmus for effect
I can use sophisticated sentence structures to create specific effects.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Inverted sentence structures add variety to your writing.
- Inverted sentence structures also draw attention to moments or ideas.
- Chiasmus is an X-shaped sentence structure.
- Chiasmus takes the clause from the first half of a sentence and repeats and reverses it in the second one.
- Chiasmus creates a sense of completion and is often euphonious.
Keywords
To navigate - to plan, plot or direct a path
Abundance - a very large quantity of something
Intentional - in a planned or deliberate way
Clause - the basic unit of grammar, typically made up of a subject, a noun phrase and a verb phrase
Euphony - the quality of having a pleasant sound
Common misconception
Students often consider that sophisticated writing always involves using complex and challenging vocabulary.
Draw attention to the way very simple words are used to create complex effects.
Spend time asking students to read their sentences aloud. Write them on the board. Let them discuss and vote for the best one.
Teacher tip
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), 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 of the following is the best definition of sentence structure?
the study of sentence length and complexity
the process of using punctuation to mark out sentences
the analysis sentence meanings and interpretations
Q2.
Which of the following is the best synonym for 'to emphasise'?
to analyse
to demolish
to distribute
Q3.
If you invert something you ...
paint it.
shrink it.
drop it.
Q4.
What is the best antonym (opposite) for simple writing?
sensory writing
beautiful writing
effective writing
Q5.
When we discuss the effect of a literary device what are we doing?
identifying its author
describing its historial context
analysing the syntax
Q6.
Which word beginning with C refers to a group of words including a subject, noun and a verb?
Exit quiz
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6 Questions
Q1.
Match the words on the left with their synonyms on the right.
to steer a path
plenty
deliberate
harmony
Q2.
What word describes a X shaped sentence structure?
inverted
clause
Q3.
'Not only ... but ...' is a useful sentence structure for ...
saying what things are not.
stressing the negative qualities of a situation
contradicting an earlier thought.
Q4.
If I wanted to show my surprise or delight about something which of the following might I use?
Little did ...
Only then ...
Not only ... but ...
Q5.
Which of the following sentences uses chiasmus?
His time had come and come it did, swiftly and without warning.
The cat chased the mouse and the mouse ran away swiftly.
The mountain tall, stood the mountain.
Q6.
Slogans often employ chiasmus because it ...
makes the slogan easy to say.
carefully undermines the competitor.
they are short.