Performing ‘Cosmic Disco’ by Grace Nichols
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can perform the poem ‘Cosmic Disco’ by Grace Nichols.
Key learning points
- ‘Cosmic Disco’ is a free verse poem without a strict line length or rhyming structure.
- Understanding a poem, its language and the impression it creates will help us to create an impactful performance.
- We can improve our performances of poetry through practice.
- The rhythm and flow, our use of voice, gestures and movement & showing expression and emotion all help our performance.
Keywords
Free verse - a form of poetry that doesn't follow any set rules of rhyme or structure
Atmosphere - the mood created in a section or whole of a text
Pace - the speed or rhythm at which a poem is read or performed
Gesture - a movement that helps express an idea or meaning
Common misconception
Pupils may think a person can be 'good' or 'bad' at performing.
Explain that successful performances need practice, like any skill. By identifying the elements that contribute to a successful performance, we can then practise them. You could show videos of real poets performing their own poetry.
Teacher tip
You could film pupils' performances of the poem to share with others. This can help to add a sense of purpose to their performances.
Equipment
You need a copy of the 2013 Frances Lincoln Children’s Books edition of ‘Cosmic Disco’ written by Grace Nichols for this lesson.
Licence
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