Writing introductions and topic sentences for poetry comparison
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can structure an effective comparative argument with a well-crafted introduction, conclusion and topic sentences.
Key learning points
- A comparative introduction should give a broad similarity in theme and nuanced differences within that similarity.
- A purposeful thesis should refer to the poets’ intentions or messages behind the common theme.
- Use comparative and correlative conjunctions to structure introductions and topic sentences.
- Topic sentences should lead with big ideas not the poets’ methods.
Keywords
Succumb - giving way to the overwhelming power of another force
Condemn - express complete disapproval of
Futility - pointlessness or uselessness
Incessant - something unpleasant continuing without pause or interruption
Common misconception
Topic sentences should compare language techniques, form and structure.
Topic sentences should focus on big ideas as it allows for meaningful comparison.
Teacher tip
The learning cycles can be adapted to fit whichever poems in the anthology you are comparing.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the AQA Power and Conflict Anthology for this lesson.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Both William Blake and Percy Bysshe Shelley...
Q2.In 'Ozymandias', Shelley uses a __________ whereas Blake uses a __________ in 'London'.
Q3.Which of the below provides an accurate definition of what it means to 'compare'?
Q4.What is a topic sentence?
Q5.What is one similarity between the poems 'Ozymandias' and 'London'?
Q6.What is one difference between the poems 'Ozymandias' and 'London'?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.When comparing 'Ozymandias' and 'London', why is it important to consider that Shelley and Blake were both Romantic poets?
Q2.'Ozymandias' depicts the __________ nature of human power, whereas 'London' depicts the __________ nature of human power.
Q3.What should you do at the end of a comparative introduction?
Q4.Which sentence uses a comparative conjunction to create a valid comparison between 'Ozymandias' and 'London'?
Q5.What can be improved about this topic sentence: 'Ozymandias' merges two sonnet forms whereas 'London' uses ABAB rhyme scheme to show the rigidity of power.'?
Q6.How do both 'Ozymandias' and 'London' show man-made power succumbing to nature?
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Writing introductions and topic sentences for poetry comparison, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 English lesson on: Writing introductions and topic sentences for poetry comparison, 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 4 English lessons from the 'Power and Conflict' unit, dive into the full secondary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.