Using punctuation in poetry
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use a range of punctuation for effect in poetry.
Key learning points
- Punctuation is important in poetry as it shows the reader when to pause for meaning or dramatic effect.
- The same punctuation we use to write ordinarily can also be used in poetry.
- Colons can be used to introduce an idea or list.
- Enjambment is when lines of poetry flow onto each other, creating a fast pace.
- Caesura is when there is a pause in the middle of a line, to draw attention to a particular idea or slow the pace.
Keywords
Caesura - a pause in the middle of a line of poetry
Enjambment - when lines of poetry flow onto each other, creating a fast pace
Colon - a punctuation mark used to introduce a list, quotation or explanation
Common misconception
Pupils may think that the same punctuation rules apply in poetry and other types of writing (e.g. full stops are needed at the end of lines).
Poems are not bound to formal punctuation rules. Having flexibility allows the poet to shape their poem based on emotion rather than grammar rules.
Teacher tip
You may wish to show students a version of Sofia's poem in the feedback for Learning Cycle 2 that does not have caesura or enjambment. Let them discover how the meaning changes.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the punctuation type to its purpose.
Q2.What is the primary purpose of punctuation?
Q3.Where could a colon go in the following sentence: 'Home isn't just a place it's a feeling of safety.'
Q4.What is caesura?
Q5.What is enjambment?
Q6.Which sentence uses speech marks correctly?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Why is punctuation particularly important in poetry?
Q2.What is not true of a colon?
Q3.What is the effect of caesura?
Q4.Match the sentences to the different purposes for the colon.
Q5.What is one effect of enjambment?
Q6."Mum. Jake. Mary. Me." The caesura here could reflect ...
To help you plan your 7 English lesson on: Using punctuation in poetry, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 English lesson on: Using punctuation in poetry, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 English lessons from the Poetry about place and home unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.