Study Guides

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils create and write malevolent characters. They first look at the conventions of malevolent characters, before learning about the techniques they can use to present their malevolent characters. They finally plan and write their fiction with a malevolent character in it.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to effectively craft a physical description of a malevolent character.

Key Notes

• Physical descriptions of characters shouldn't just be a list of what they look like or the clothes they are wearing.
• Physical descriptions of characters should use carefully chosen vocabulary to allow the reader to infer information.
• Linking physical description to a character's personality can make descriptions more effective.
• 'Show not tell' works on implied meanings.

Vocabulary To Learn

• inference: a conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning.
• show not tell: a method used by writers which focuses on allowing your reader to infer information instead of simply telling them directly.
• unyielding: doesn't give in to pressure.
• dishevelled: untidy; disordered.
• implied: suggested but not directly expressed.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Pupils will sometimes overload the physical description of their character and list each individual detail, often using cliches.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Contrasting characters: using juxtaposition Study Guide
• Crafting character through dialogue Study Guide
• Crafting malevolent characters Study Guide
• Describing setting and developing tone Study Guide
• Planning fiction writing about a malevolent character Study Guide
• Using figurative language effectively for character description Study Guide
• Using paragraphs effectively Study Guide
• Using vocabulary effectively in fiction writing Study Guide
• Writing fiction about a malevolent character Study Guide