Analysing the poem 'Us' by Zaffar Kunial
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Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how Kunial uses language, form and structure to express his viewpoint.
Key learning points
- The speaker of the poem begins fairly sure of his views on divisions/togetherness but becomes more uncertain later on.
- Kunial uses aspirational language to show the speaker's uncertainty towards the end of the poem.
- Kunial playfully explores sounds and words which link to "us" and emphasise this as the central idea of the poem.
- There are many examples of partial rhymes, alliteration and assonance throughout the poem.
- Punctuation and line breaks are used creatively to draw attention to particular phrases or ideas.
Keywords
Foreground - emphasise or draw attention to something, making it prominent or central in focus
Ideals - beliefs or principles that guide behaviour and reflect our desired outcomes
Abstract - existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence
Aspirational language - language which describes goals or ambitions that one strives to achieve
Assonance - repetition of similar vowel sounds in words to create musicality or emphasis in writing
Common misconception
This poem has a clear message about togetherness and division.
This poem is an abstract exploration of the different ways divisions and togetherness affect our relationships with each other (both personal relationships and our relationships in society).
Teacher tip
For the second learning cycle, consider giving groups of students a stanza printed out onto A3 paper and encourage them to analyse the stanza at word level, exploring how sounds and meanings are used for effect.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of 'Us' by Zaffar Kunial (located in the Edexcel GCSE Poetry Anthology - 'Belonging' cluster).
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
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