a phrase of two words that replaces a noun that is often used in Old English poetry

pull out the key information and ideas from the text

a protagonist with noble qualities, often saving or helping others

qualities or features of a person’s personality

Beowulf completes his Danish mission

English

Beowulf begins his quest

Beowulf among the Danes

Characterisation of Beowulf and Grendel

Beowulf faces a new foe

Beowulf and the dragon

Beowulf's burial

In 'Beowulf’, pupils read and discussed the tale. In ’Beowulf Narrative Writing’, they will use the book as a stimulus for writing.

In 'Blackberry Blue’, pupils read and discussed the features of a traditional tale. In ’Beowulf’, pupils develop their understanding of traditional tales by discussing and reading a classic.

In this unit, pupils read and explore a translation and adaptation of the Old English epic poem 'Beowulf', written by Kevin Crossley-Holland. They explore the language and the context of the poem and then explore and discuss the chapters sequentially, gaining strong comprehension.

'Beowulf': reading

When Beowulf surfaced from the lake, what had the Danes done?

Which of these is a kenning for the monsters? 

Which character might have said this line? '"We Danes are lucky to count you as a friend!"

person who takes your role when you finish it

Since Beowulf arrived, what has happened to the relationship between the Geats and the Danes?

Which of the following are common attributes of heroes?

Which characters have died so far in 'Beowulf'?

Compared to how he fought Grendel, what did Beowulf do differently when fighting Grendel's mother?

Which of the following is most important to Beowulf?

Which of these could be used as a kenning to describe Beowulf? 

Which character could be described by the kenning 'Geat-devourer'?

Starter Quiz

Which characters have died so far in 'Beowulf'?