KS2 SATs KS2 Writing Skills & Vocabulary 6 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the difference between a simile and a metaphor?
- They are the same thing
- A simile uses 'like' or 'as'; a metaphor says something IS something else directly (Correct answer)
- A metaphor uses 'like' or 'as'; a simile is direct
- Similes are only used in poetry
Correct answer: A simile uses 'like' or 'as'; a metaphor says something IS something else directly
Both compare two things, but a simile uses 'like' or 'as' ('brave as a lion'), while a metaphor makes a direct comparison ('he is a lion'). Metaphors are often considered more powerful.
Question 2: When should you use a hyphen in writing?
- To replace a full stop
- To join words that work together as a modifier before a noun (Correct answer)
- To show possession
- To list items
Correct answer: To join words that work together as a modifier before a noun
A hyphen joins compound modifiers that work together before a noun: 'a well-known author', 'a seven-year-old child'. Without the hyphen, the meaning can become unclear.
Question 3: What is the effect of using short, simple sentences in action writing?
- It slows the action down and creates calm
- It creates pace, urgency, and tension (Correct answer)
- It makes the writing seem childish
- It avoids the use of connectives
Correct answer: It creates pace, urgency, and tension
Short, punchy sentences mirror fast-paced action, creating tension and urgency. They give the impression of things happening quickly. This technique is used deliberately by skilled writers in climactic moments.
Question 4: What does 'evaluate' mean when applied to your own writing?
- Simply writing it out again neatly
- Making a judgement about what worked well and what could be improved (Correct answer)
- Copying it from a book
- Counting the number of words
Correct answer: Making a judgement about what worked well and what could be improved
Evaluating your writing means stepping back and assessing its strengths and weaknesses. It includes considering whether it achieves its purpose, whether the vocabulary is effective, and what could be made clearer.
Question 5: What does the word 'tenacious' mean?
- Weak and easily discouraged
- Determined and persistent, not giving up easily (Correct answer)
- Brave and adventurous
- Quiet and thoughtful
Correct answer: Determined and persistent, not giving up easily
'Tenacious' means stubbornly or determinedly persistent — holding on and not giving up. A tenacious person keeps trying despite difficulties. It comes from the Latin 'tenax' meaning 'holding fast'.
Question 6: What is the purpose of a rhetorical question in persuasive writing?
- To get factual information from the reader
- To make the reader think and feel involved without expecting a real answer (Correct answer)
- To introduce a new argument
- To end the essay
Correct answer: To make the reader think and feel involved without expecting a real answer
A rhetorical question is asked for persuasive effect. It invites the reader to agree with the implied answer without giving one. For example, 'Isn't clean air something everyone deserves?' implies yes.
KS2 SATs KS2 Writing Skills & Vocabulary 6
What is the difference between a simile and a metaphor?