Plan for the 12-Marker Lesson: Focus: Figurative Language and Effect

The lesson plan focuses on teaching students how to approach and structure a 12-mark GCSE-style question about a fiction extract. It covers understanding the question, planning quickly, and writing a strong, organised answer. Students learn to focus on language, structure, and the writer’s methods, using embedded quotes and precise analysis. The planning stages include identifying 3–4 key points, finding evidence, and deciding how the writer creates effects. The lesson highlights the importance of linking back to the question throughout and ending with a brief conclusion. The overall aim is to help students write detailed, thoughtful responses with clear structure and critical engagement.

The 12-marker GCSE writing task focuses on crafting a well-structured and thoughtful response to a question, often analysing how writers use language, structure, and form for effect. Students should begin with a clear introduction, directly addressing the question and outlining their main ideas. Each body paragraph must focus on one main point, supported by embedded quotations, detailed analysis, and exploration of the writer’s techniques (like figurative language, tone, and structure). Linking ideas back to the question is essential throughout. Students should use analytical verbs (e.g., suggests, emphasises, portrays) and consider alternative interpretations where appropriate. A short conclusion should summarise key points and offer an overall judgement. Planning before writing is crucial: identify 3–4 main ideas, relevant evidence, and key techniques. High-quality responses are detailed, perceptive, and well-organised, showing clear engagement with the text and question.