51ºÚÁÏ

This 1-hour lesson teaches students how to use colons and semicolons effectively through the engaging and memorable task of writing a museum plaque for an artefact of their choice. The lesson blends grammar instruction with imaginative writing, helping students see punctuation as a tool for clarity and impact.

Target group:
Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9), but easily adaptable for upper KS2 or KS4.

Lesson Includes:

• Clear explanations of how to use colons and semicolons, including common misconceptions
• Differentiated practice tasks with model answers
• A creative writing activity: students write their own museum plaque, applying what they’ve learned
• Descriptive language focus, with prompts for imagery, tone, and stylistic devices (e.g., alliteration)
• Plenary activity encouraging peer review and active listening

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• Understand and explain the correct use of colons and semicolons

• Apply these punctuation marks accurately in their own writing

• Use descriptive language to engage a reader and evoke tone

• Write a concise, informative and imaginative museum-style text