KS2 Diary Writing Unit – 5 Outstanding Lessons | Back-to-School Viking Theme

Fully resourced and ideal for Years 3–6 | Combines personal writing and imaginative storytelling

Start your autumn term with this engaging 5-lesson diary writing unit, blending summer reflections with a Viking adventure! Designed for KS2 learners, this unit supports pupils in crafting structured and imaginative diary entries using accurate grammar, sentence variety, and vivid vocabulary.

What’s included:
✔ 5 detailed lesson plans with clear objectives and differentiation
✔ 5 PowerPoints packed with model examples and writing tips
✔ Diary writing checklist (“shopping list”)
✔ Adverb word bank and help sheet
✔ Paired activity sheet to develop collaboration and editing skills

Lesson focus areas:

• Understanding the features and purpose of diary writing
• Exploring the use of first-person perspective and informal tone
• Building strong sentence structures using adverbs, fronted adverbials, and parentheses
• Accurate use of punctuation: speech marks, commas, and exclamation marks
• Imaginative writing through the eyes of a Viking character

Why teachers love this unit:
✔ Perfect for the first weeks of term
✔ Builds grammar and composition skills through fun and meaningful tasks
✔ Covers both personal and historical writing styles
✔ Fully aligned with KS2 curriculum objectives
✔ Differentiated activities ensure accessibility for all learners

Ideal for:

• KS2 English lessons in September
• Back-to-school transition activities
• Holiday recounts and creative narrative writing
• Developing diary writing skills in a Viking context

Tags: KS2, Year 3, Year 4, Year 5, Year 6, diary writing, back to school, creative writing, sentence structure, punctuation, grammar, summer holiday, Viking, Saga of Bjorn, September, first week back, English, literacy, writing unit