Exploring connections to ‘I Opened the Door’
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can make comparisons between an 'after' poem and its original influence.
Key learning points
- ‘I Opened the Door’ is inspired by another poem.
- When a poem is heavily influenced by another poem, it's acknowledged with the word 'after' and the original poet's name.
- The poem that inspired ‘I Opened the Door’ is called ‘A Poison Tree’, which was written by William Blake.
- We can compare and contrast poems based on many different aspects.
Keywords
'after' poem - a type of poem that is written in response to or inspired by another poem, often continuing its themes, ideas or imagery
Inspiration - the creative spark or source of ideas that motivates a poet to write
Compare - involves identifying similarities between two or more things, ideas, concepts or texts
Contrast - involves identifying differences between two or more things, ideas, concepts or texts
Common misconception
Pupils may find understanding the symbolism in both poems challenging.
Pupils may benefit from additional images to support understanding and help with representation of emotions.
Teacher tip
The poems' responses to emotions could be linked with other lessons, for example PSHE - particularly in relation to dealing/coping with anger and working towards possible resolutions.
Equipment
You need a copy of the 2021 Otter Barry edition of ‘Stars with Flaming Tails’ written by Valerie Bloom illustrated by Ken Wilson Max for this lesson.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
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