Resource #V101561

Précis

Writing and designing a brochure or advertisement in the style of the Victorian or Edwardian period, for the Isle of Wight and its Steam Railway

Contextual Summary

This is an English writing composition task that enables students to reflect on the appearance of the railway and its authenticity.

On their visit it is anticipated that students will notice the old-style advertising posters, signs, and styles of furniture and design.

This task asks student to consider how the past has been represented, and to contribute to this by designing their own railway advertisement or brochure. They will have the Isle of Wight Steam Railway brochure and some old Southern Railway advertising images as inspiration.

Teachers could specifically ask students prior to the visit to pay attention to any advertising, styles and designs represented at the Steam Railway. Students could do some sketches to help them later.

This task has cross-curricular links with History (representations of the past).

Curriculum Relevance

English → Writing (Composition) → Writing / Designing to Persuade (Advertising)

Implementation

This task would most probably be undertaken as a follow-up activity on return to school or accommodation. The students will need to have some prior knowledge and understanding of advertising audiences, purposes and techniques.

Key Skills Practised

• Writing in the style of the past
• Writing for audience and purpose
• Writing to persuade
• Writing to inform

Learning Opportunities

Pre-Visit

There is an opportunity here to look at the language of advertising and how it has changed over time. Students can look at the language and style of Edwardian and Victorian adverts and brochures generally, perhaps with a focus on travel. Students can then be prepared to collate the style and design information on offer at Isle of Wight Steam Railway, in order to get the most out of this task.

On Site

Looking at style, design and advertising on display around Isle of Wight Steam Railway, as preparation for the completion of the task/resource linked to this document; making notes or sketches etc.

Post-Visit

Completion of the task/resource linked to this document.

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to demonstrate that they can use language for a particular audience and purpose (to inform and persuade), on a focused theme, and with an emphasis on accuracy.