English·Grammar & Punctuation·language
Literary and Language Terminology
Discuss reading, writing, and spoken language with precise and confident use of linguistic and literary terminology — including terms for word classes, sentence types, clause types, literary devices, and text-level features
Suggested ages 11–14
Evidence of understanding
- Use terms like 'subordinate clause', 'relative pronoun', 'metaphor', 'alliteration' accurately in discussion
- Explain the difference between a simile and a metaphor using correct terminology
- Use metalanguage (e.g., 'the author employs enjambment to...') confidently when writing about texts
Assessment prompt
When Literary and Language Terminology discusses a book or piece of writing with a teacher, do they use precise language — like "the author uses a compound-complex sentence here" or "that's a non-restrictive relative clause" — rather than just saying "this bit is good"?
Standards alignment
L.6.3US · ccss-ela
L.6.3
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 6
L.7.3US · ccss-ela
L.7.3
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 7
KS3-ENG-GV-1fGB · uk-nc-2013
Discuss language with precise terminology
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 3