What are the writing genres and their features in Key Stage 2?

Here are the main writing genres your children will learn during primary school education and their key features:

Narrative/Story Writing:

• Story start, build up, problem and resolution.
• Characters, setting, and plot development.
• Descriptive language to paint a vivid picture.
• Chronological sequencing of events.
• Use of dialogue for character conversations.
• Written in 1st or 3rd person.
• Usually past tense.
• Includes story continuation.

Descriptive Writing:

• Detailed descriptions of people, places, objects, or events.
• Sensory language engaging sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.
• Use of vivid adjectives and adverbs.
• Use of literary devices and figurative language.
• Organised structure with a clear focus.
• Usually written in 3rd person.
• Usually past tense.

Poetry:

• Creative use of language, rhythm, and rhyme.
• Imagery and figurative language (similes, metaphors).
• Short lines and stanzas.
• Emotional expression and focus on feelings.
• Varied poetic forms (haiku, acrostic, free verse).

Plays and Scripts:

• Character names presented appropriately.
• Stage directions in brackets.
• No quotation marks.
• Acts and scenes.
• Setting description.
• Engaging plot, with clear beginning, middle and end.

Explanation Writing

• Clear introduction outlining the topic.
• Explanation of the topic presented in clear and logical order.
• Use of headings and sub-headings.
• Facts and statistics to support writing.
• May include diagrams and charts.
• Technical vocabulary related to the topic.
• Clear paragraphs.

Information Writing

• Introduction of the main topic to be discussed.
• Organised structure with paragraphs for different points.
• Use of facts, examples, and details to explain a topic.
• Subheadings and bullet points for clarity.
• Conclusion summarising key points.

Biographical and Autobiographical Writing

• 1st person (autobiographical) and 3rd person (biographical).
• Written in chronological order, with description of events.
• Factual (biographical), emotions and reflections (autobiographical).
• Formal writing.

Persuasive Writing

• Clear opinion stated in the introduction.
• Arguments supported by reasons and evidence.
• Strong conclusion urging the reader to take action.

Discussion Writing

• Introduction, outlining the topic.
• Paragraphs, each focussing on a different idea.
• Balanced discussion, showing both sides of the argument.
• Evidence and examples to support viewpoints.
• Conclusion, summarising the topic and reaching an overall conclusion.

Letter Writing

• Appropriate greeting.
• Clear purpose for writing (e.g., thank, inquire, share information).
• Well-organised paragraphs.
• Understanding of audience (formal or informal writing).

Diary Writing

• 1st person.
• Past tense.
• Chronological events.
• Informal language.
• Expressing emotion.
• Some descriptive details.

Reports (Newspaper etc)

• Introduction, body, and conclusion structure.
• Headings and subheadings for different sections.
• Use of facts, research, and details to present information.
• Organised in a logical and sequential manner.
• Unbiased information.

Are you interested in supporting your child further with creative writing?

Our creative writing clubs and courses run online for families and also as after-school clubs in schools. To find out more about our online courses, please visit our Upcoming Courses. If you are a school interested in hearing about our after-school clubs, please visit our Schools page, or send us an email at info@brightlighteducation.co.uk.