Starter quiz
- What is a simile?
- a figure of speech that compares two things using 'like' or 'as' ✓
- a figure of speech that directly compares two unrelated things
- giving an object human like characteristics
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- What is a metaphor?
- giving an object human like characteristics
- when you exaggerate or overstate something
- when you compare two things using the verb 'to be' ✓
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- What is a contrast?
- a similarity ✓
- a difference
- either a similarity or difference
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- What are the connotations of something which is described as 'sharp'?
- painful ✓
- dangerous ✓
- cruel ✓
- ineffective
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- What does it mean to be deceptive?
- to be straightforward and honest
- to hide or misrepresent the truth ✓
- to be uncertain or indecisive
- to show a lack of awareness
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- What do we call the main character in a story?
- the protagonist ✓
- the first character
- the antagonist
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Exit quiz
- How does dialogue typically reveal a malevolent character's true nature?
- by being overly honest and transparent
- by being charming while hiding malicious intent ✓
- by being humorous and light-hearted
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- Which word is not associated with malice or malevolence?
- spitefulness
- ill feeling
- bitterness
- vindictive
- sympathy ✓
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- How does Dracula's dialogue in the extract from 'Dracula' contrast with his actions to reveal his true nature?
- he speaks harshly and acts kindly
- he speaks sweetly but acts coldly ✓
- he speaks honestly and acts truthfully
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- Are deception and dishonesty characteristics of a malevolent character? Select the most appropriate response.
- being deceptive and dishonest implies someone is malevolent and can't be trusted ✓
- dishonesty and deception are positive qualities that imply a character is smart
- sometimes deception and dishonesty can be used for good without realising
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- Why is physical description useful when describing a malevolent character?
- it can create vivid mental images that helps the reader understand the character ✓
- physical description always shows malevolence
- it can show contrast in their character
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- A pupil said, 'dialogue is useful in illustrating a character's underlying malice.' Select the answers below which would be an appropriate response to the pupil.
- Dialogue can sometimes be used to build on the actions of a character. ✓
- Writers should always use descriptions to show malice, not dialogue.
- Dialogue is only useful if more than one character is speaking.
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Worksheet
Presentation
Video
Lesson Details
Key learning points
- A writer can use key conventions to craft a malevolent character in their writing.
- These conventions include: physical description, dialogue, and other characters' reactions.
- The contrast between dialogue and action can be used to imply a character is malevolent subtly.
- Bram Stoker's Count Dracula is a classic malevolent character.
Common misconception
Malevolent characters are always obviously and outwardly evil characters.
Ask pupils whether they can think of any characters from literature where their malevolence is implied or not explicitly stated at first. These characters are often dangerously deceptive.
Keywords
Malevolent - having or showing a wish to do evil to others
Convention - a way in which something is usually done or a key feature
Craft - the deliberate and skilful process of creating a written piece of communication
Malicious - the desire to harm others
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