This is my first lesson of any poetry unit for KS3/KS4. It introduces students to a range of poems and poetic styles and stimulates discussion on the validity of poetry and what makes a good poem without being technical (poetic terms etc.). It includes a homework task at the end.<br /> The aim of this lesson is to hook students into a scheme of work on poetry by placing it in a broader context. <br /> You can do this lesson working as a whole class, or prompt students to discuss in small groups/pairs (whichever works best for your class). <br /> To further extend students, you could challenge them to write their own poem.<br />

Before students deliver a spoken presentation/speech I ask them to reflect on how prepared they are using this simple sheet which then prompts them to do anything that they haven't yet done! It is easily adaptable and allows me to very quickly check that my students are ready for a spoken task and gives them accountability for the preparation process.