Reading, responding to and performing 'In the Heart of a Book'
Copyrighted materials: to view and download resources from this lesson, you’ll need to be in the UK and
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can read and respond to a poem before performing it.
Key learning points
- ‘In the Heart of a Book’ is a 20 line poem written by Liz Brownlee; the poem is split into 10 two-line verses.
- The poem includes repetition through the use of anaphora.
- Anaphora can draw attention to what books can provide readers with emotionally, while maintaining the poem’s pace.
- Understanding a poem, its language, imagery & the impression it creates will help us to create an impactful performance.
Keywords
Anaphora - when a word or phrase is repeated at the beginning of multiple lines in a poem or speech
Atmosphere - the mood created in a section or whole of a text
Imagery - the use of language to create a mental picture or sensory experience for the reader or listener
Gesture - a movement that helps express an idea or meaning
Pace - the speed or rhythm at which a poem is read or performed
Common misconception
Some pupils may not be able to think of a text that they have an emotional connection with.
Remind pupils of texts that they have shared in class during the year or previous years. Model an example using a shared text.
Teacher tip
Gestures used in poetry performance should add depth and visual interest, rather than overshadowing the spoken words of the poem.
Equipment
You need a copy of the 2021 Otter-Barry edition of ‘Being Me’ written by Liz Brownlee, Matt Goodfellow and Laura Mucha, illustrated by Victoria Jane Wheeler for this lesson.
Licence
Sign in to continue
Our content remains 100% free, but to access certain copyrighted materials, you'll need to sign in. This ensures we’re both staying within the rules.
P.S. Signing in also gives you more ways to make the most of Oak like unit downloads!
