Expressive and Sensory Language
Recognise recurring literary language in stories and poetry, identify words and phrases that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses, and discuss favourite words and phrases
Suggested ages 6–9
Learning journey
Your child is developing deeper reading skills — understanding how stories are structured, identifying main ideas in informational texts, comparing characters' perspectives, and recognising how different text features help organise information.
Evidence of understanding
- Spot recurring story language such as 'Once upon a time' and 'happily ever after'
- Identify sensory words and phrases in a poem: 'the icy wind howled'
- Share a favourite word or phrase from a story and explain why it appeals
Assessment prompt
When Expressive and Sensory Language reads a poem or a story with vivid language, can they pick out a phrase they really liked — and tell you why it works well or how it made them feel?
Standards alignment
RI.3.4
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 3
RL.1.4
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 1
RL.2.4
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 2
RL.3.4
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 3
Recognise literary language
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 1
Discuss favourite words
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 1
Discuss words and phrases
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2