Creative writing lesson - OMAM

This engaging creative writing lesson uses the opening of Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men as inspiration for students to analyse, select, and apply effective language devices and ambitious vocabulary in their own writing. Ideal for KS3 or KS4, and particularly well suited for cover lessons, independent work, or writing-focused units.

What the lesson includes:

A guided analysis of Steinbeck’s descriptive techniques, focusing on vocabulary, imagery, and structural choices

A language device identification and selection task to help students notice how writers create atmosphere and tone

A scaffolded creative writing activity, encouraging students to craft their own descriptive opening using:

ambitious vocabulary

key language devices (simile, metaphor, personification, sensory detail)

purposeful structural choices

A structured worksheet with space for planning and writing, ensuring students can work independently and confidently

This resource helps students move from analysis to application, strengthening their descriptive writing skills while deepening their appreciation of Steinbeck’s craft. Straightforward, engaging, and easy to deliver—perfect for classroom use or cover work.