'Beowulf': reading
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Why this why now
This unit uses and builds on the prior unit, 'Blackberry Blue', where pupils read and discussed the features of a traditional tale. In 'Beowulf', pupils develop their understanding of traditional tales by discussing and reading a complex, classic tale. Pupils learn about the historical context of the epic poem and explore some of the archaic language used in each chapter. This unit prepares pupils for the future unit, 'Beowulf Narrative Writing', where they will use the book as a stimulus for writing.
Prior knowledge requirements
- Ability to decode text fluently at an age-appropriate level.
- Know how to retrieve information from a text.
- Know how to infer meaning from a text.
- Know that authors make word and phrase choices.
Threads
Why this why now
This unit uses and builds on the prior unit, 'Blackberry Blue', where pupils read and discussed the features of a traditional tale. In 'Beowulf', pupils develop their understanding of traditional tales by discussing and reading a complex, classic tale. Pupils learn about the historical context of the epic poem and explore some of the archaic language used in each chapter. This unit prepares pupils for the future unit, 'Beowulf Narrative Writing', where they will use the book as a stimulus for writing.
Prior knowledge requirements
- Ability to decode text fluently at an age-appropriate level.
- Know how to retrieve information from a text.
- Know how to infer meaning from a text.
- Know that authors make word and phrase choices.
Reading, writing & oracy
'Beowulf': reading
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.
7 lessons in unit
slide decks, worksheet PDFs, quizzes and lesson overviews. You can select individual lessons from the 'Beowulf': reading unit and download the resources you need, or download the entire unit now. See every unit listed in our primary english curriculum and discover more of our teaching resources for primary english programmes.