Benjamin Zephaniah's 'Dis Poetry' - 2 lessons

Two lessons on Benjamin Zephaniah’s ‘Dis Poetry’ (an extra lesson adapted to LA - lower ability)

Lesson 1 LO’s > To understand how and why poets express their
cultural identity within their poems

To deepen understanding of the meaning of the word ‘culture’ and its importance in constructing people and whole countries’ sense of identity

Understand the context and the main theme of the poem (macro)

Understand how the poem fits in the theme of multiculturalism

Content

Reading of two poems by Benjamin Zephaniah and exploration of the context behind its writing

To begin to explain why cultural context can affect a writer’s language / structural choices

Cement students’ understanding of the term ‘culture’ through discussion

Read poems. Students make some initial notes responding to the 2nd poem ‘Dis Poetry’

Ss reflect on the cultural influences which inspired the poet

DEMONSTRATE task - Use of scaffolds on slide 13 to help support Ss understanding of poetic terminology

Lesson 2 LO’s >

To analyse the methods used by the poet to convey ideas

To analyse a poem’s use of language, rhyme and rhythm to create meaning and reflect the poet’s feelings and explain effects.

To apply our understanding of the context and the main theme of the poem (macro) in our analysis
Re-read poem from previous lesson.

Ss focus on language choices also applying knowledge of poem’s context Three DEMONSTRATE tasks based on question: ‘How does Zephaniah express his feelings about poetry in ‘Dis Poetry’?.’ 3 moments in poem (beginning, middle, end)

Dependent on ability, Ss can undertake this task independently writing in full sentences in book or annotate on poem with teacher’s guidance.

DEMONSTRATE task questions printable slides 9-11