Wild – Setting Description Writing Unit (6 Sessions)

Inclusive English planning for SEND and mainstream learners

This engaging unit of work is based on the beautifully illustrated picture book Wild by Emily Hughes. Across the sequence, pupils explore the text through sensory storytelling, imagery and drama before developing the skills needed to write a descriptive setting based on the forest world in the story. Learners consider how the character feels within her environment and use descriptive language inspired by their own real-life experiences outdoors.

The scheme is designed for a wide range of cognition pathways (Pre-formal – Formal+), with explicit differentiation, symbol-supported scaffolds and opportunities for multi-sensory exploration. Each lesson supports language development, comprehension and independence in writing.

What’s included in the pack

• Full six-session sequence with reading and writing outcomes
• Setting description model, planning sheet and writing frame
• Sensory-based reading sessions (including Attention Autism)
• Visual supports including Colourful Semantics
• Story sequencing tasks and comprehension activities
• Differentiated pathways for semi-formal, formal and formal+ learners
• Assessment opportunities embedded throughout
• Word mats, key vocabulary lists and language feature prompts
• Links to British Values and SMSC
• Opportunities for outdoor learning and real-world engagement (Forest School)

Skills and curriculum coverage

• Understanding character, setting and simple narrative structure
• Exploring emotional literacy through illustrations
• Using the five senses to describe a setting
• Developing descriptive language, including adjectives, alliteration and similes
• Sequencing events using time adverbials
• Planning and writing sentences that others can read
• Communication and interaction targets for emerging communicators
• Building confidence in the writing process — plan, draft, review

Intended outcomes

• Pupils identify key features of a setting description
• Pupils plan a forest setting using sensory language
• Pupils write or contribute to a short description of the Wild setting
• Pupils show improved engagement and comprehension through storytelling