Plotting tension in Language devices Sentence length structure

Plotting tension in. . .

Language devices: Sentence length & structure 3 word sentence Page 34: “Suddenly, right behind me, there was that sound again. I turned quickly. A broken lamp was swinging back and forth, banging against the wall, as if someone had just pushed it. ” 19 word sentence, multiple clauses Long sentences move content along and provide detail. Short sentences halt pace and movement, make the reader pause and add impact or emphasis.

Language devices: Verb choice Roared suggests an angry and powerful predator, adding intensity to the sound of the coastal wind. Page 28: “The wind from the sea roared through the broken windows. I could hear the tide rushing in. ” Rushing suggests speed and urgency, adding tension to the tide’s movements. Choosing words with specific meanings can add to the reader’s imaginary picture of the scene in a multi-sensory way.

Language devices: Repetition Pages 2– 3 “I always try to make my mother proud! I’m not bad, just unlucky. When something happens, I’m there, and I get the blame. Somebody kicked the football through the school window. We were all playing football; I just happened to be the one who kicked the ball. See what I mean? Unlucky. And when the PE teacher told me to throw away my chewing gum, how was I to know it would land in Chelsea’s hair? Unlucky, I tell you. ” Repetition of the word unlucky relays the speaker’s frustration. Repetition emphasises key ideas and can express increased emotion or tension. Questions can have the same effect.

Imagery: In language and visuals Page 28: “It was as cold as the grave. ” Using a comparison can help the reader to imagine something in a multi-sensory way. Illustrations work wonders to add mood and context to the text.