This Year 4 Real Writing unit uses a model text by published children’s author Ross Montgomery. Pupils explore whether Banksy’s graffiti is art or vandalism.
The model text is available as PDFs in plain, illustrated and annotated versions. PowerPoint slides, both annotated and non-annotated, support teaching.
Over two to three weeks, pupils investigate vocabulary, grammar and viewpoints. They discuss, debate and write their own balanced argument.
The unit follows a carefully mapped framework. It links easily to art topics on famous artists or graffiti.
Curriculum links
English
- Use a dictionary to check the spelling and meaning of words
- Use the present perfect verb form
- Use a range of conjunctions to create complex sentences
- Apply consistent tense
- Use apostrophes for singular possession
- Organise paragraphs around a theme
- Use fronted adverbials and simple organisational devices
Cross-curricular links
- Art: study famous artists and graffiti
- PSHE: discuss differing viewpoints
Vocabulary
- Tier 2 words: anonymous, anonymously, controversial, outrage, unique, vandal, vandalism
- Tier 3 words: artist, deface, gallery, graffiti, influential, sculpture
- Common exception words: appear, consider, decide, different, naughty, often, probably, therefore
Resources included
- Model text PDFs: plain, illustrated, annotated
- Annotated and non-annotated PowerPoint slides
- Word cards for tier 2, tier 3 and statutory spelling words
- Vocabulary match activities
- Debate support materials
- Writer’s craft instruction sheet and margin planner
- Writing skills checklists
Key teaching activities
- Hook: Introduce graffiti image and discuss pupils’ opinions. List positive and negative viewpoints.
- Model text reading: Explore Banksy’s work, discuss issues, identify opposing viewpoints.
- Vocabulary work: Match words with definitions using context clues and word cards.
- Grammar focus: Teach present perfect verbs, applying them to discussion writing.
- Debate: Pupils orally rehearse viewpoints, using formal vocabulary and adverbial phrases. Vote to conclude.
- Planning: Use margin planner to structure arguments and link ideas with adverbials.
- Writing: Compose paragraphs on opposing viewpoints, proofread and edit collaboratively.
Outcomes
By the end of the unit, pupils will be able to:
- Write a balanced argument about graffiti, showing opposing viewpoints
- Use the present perfect verb form accurately
- Apply formal vocabulary and adverbial phrases in discussion writing
- Use dictionaries to check spelling and word meanings
- Plan, draft, edit and present a structured argument in writing
This unit provides a structured, scaffolded approach to writing discussion texts, linking literacy skills to wider art and social discussions.