Case studies
Improving English pedagogy through use of ICT - Bringing prose to life
Background A significant number of pupils at both Key Stages 3 and 4 find the nature and function of imagery and figurative language difficult to understand in their reading and writing. While they are often able to spot the use of metaphor or simile, they are less certain of its effect on the reader, especially if the writing is subtle.
The QCA has reported consistently over the last few years that many pupils cannot comment precisely on writers' uses of language, including choice of individual words, phrases and images.
At Key Stage 4, examiners have reported that pupils fail to reach the higher mark bands because they can't comment on a writer's use of language – they are unable to tell the what from the how.
The approach described in this case study was developed to help pupils see the importance of figurative language in prose and learn how to comment on its effects on the reader. It was exemplified in a Year 8 teaching sequence.
