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3. Don’t expect an answer – the question should set up the topic without requiring the reader to have prior knowledge. 4. Make it relevant – the question should lead naturally into the explanation that follows. The outcome could look like this: Have you ever wondered what causes a volcano to erupt with such power and force? Engagement and focus So, why might KS2 children use rhetorical questions in their writing? (See what I’ve done again?) Here are some of the key effects they might try to create: Reader engagement Rhetorical questions can help readers feel directly involved in the text, sparking their curiosity and prompting them to think actively about the topic or story while, or even before, they read. In fiction: Sophie glanced around the empty room. Where had everyone gone? This question invites the reader to wonder along with the character, increasing their investment in the mysterious scene that is about to unfold. In non-fiction: Have you ever wondered what life is like for astronauts staying in space? Here, the rhetorical question is intended to pique the reader’s interest, before providing a detailed explanation about life on the International Space Station. Building tension In narratives, rhetorical questions can build suspense. In fiction: The footsteps seemed to grow louder behind him. Was it just his imagination, or was someone following him? This creates tension by making readers share the character’s anxiety, enhancing the atmosphere of suspense and possible danger. Drawing attention or focus Rhetorical questions can help emphasise key points or ideas, signalling that a particular detail or fact is especially important. In fiction: But why would the thief risk everything to steal an old, battered box? Here, we highlight the importance of the box, encouraging readers to think about its possible role in the story and why it might be worth risking being caught to steal it. In non-fiction: Why do many scientists think the rate of climate change is increasing? This question helps focus the reader’s attention on the most important point, framing the explanation of the issue that follows as something deserving of the reader’s attention (and perhaps even creating a sense of urgency). Establishing voice In fiction, rhetorical questions can help children to show a character’s personality. In non-fiction, they can establish a particular tone to their writing, e.g. building a conversational style. In fiction: ‘Did Deanna really think she could outsmart her wise old grandmother?’ chuckled Gran to herself. This question adds a mischievous, knowing tone to the writing, giving readers insight into Gran’s perspective and hinting that Deanna might not get away with whatever she’s up to! In non-fiction: I mean, if they could choose anything, who would actually choose to eat vegetables? This question creates a playful, conversational tone, inviting the reader to reflect on their own experiences as if talking with a friend. Whether they’re crafting thrilling tales or explaining fascinating facts, children can use rhetorical questions to help their writing come alive by adding depth, engagement, and personality. Some time spent learning how this technique works, and how it might be employed most effectively, is time well spent. TP James Clements is an education writer and researcher. His latest project is FluentZoo, a resource for supporting children’s reading fluency. DOWNLOAD RESOURCES AT Download your FREE PowerPoint and worksheet at tinyurl.com/ tp-RhetoricalQs @mrjclements fluentzoo.com www.teachwire.net | 55 T E ACH RE AD I NG & WR I T I NG