Show dont tell.

At the moment we are learning how to write emotive and powerful narrative passages. One activity that is really effective is getting the children in the frame of " show don't tell". This is a catch phrase for allowing the reader to create the mood of the characters for them selves, based on the imagery and interesting language in the writing. Basically the rule is don't state the obvious.

FOR EXAMPLE:

Instead of telling the reader 'Anna was angry as she entered the room'

Show the reader how she feels...

Here are some of the fantastic passages the children created today, based on the above statement.

• Sienna charged into the room, her body exploding in waves of anguish. The room seemed to tear itself apart as if her legs were not attached to her body. Armed with iron muscles, the glasses smashed to smithereens and the scuff marks on the floor cut deep like rivers. flames burned her eyes and smoke curled up invisibly from her nostrils.

By Kia

• The door flew open, dislodging a picture frame, bringing it smashing to the floor ( startling the dog). Imogen launched her bag at the sofa, where it fell, slumped and dejected onto a cushion. She stomped up the stairs, crashed open her door and fell onto her bed...fuming.

By Kieran R

• Apollo couldn't believe his eyes. His whole weeks hunting...gone! He stormed across the hut, searching for evidence as to who might have pilfered his food supply. His eyes glowed fire and ice, scanning the room they fell onto a crumpled note on the table- the same table where a huge stag once lay. Written in messy handwriting were the words "Don't Mess With Me Again". "Jonah, you filthy thieving cheat!" he yelled shrilly. Sprinting outside, pausing only to slam the door shut and flick the key around once- securing what was left of his catch. It was time for revenge!

Molly H

• Anna stormed into the room like a torpedo, exploding the door off its hinges. She slammed her schoolbag into the wall sending pencils flying. As she pounced onto her bed her face bursting with tears she could feel red burning underneath her skin.

Jamie