Big Green Poetry Machine KS3Download PDF version for printing KS3 Key Concepts - Learning Objectives• 1.1c Demonstrating a secure understanding of the conventions of written language, including grammar, spelling and punctuation.• 1.2b Using inventive approaches to making meaning, taking risks, playing with language and using it to create new effects. • 1.4c Exploring others' ideas and developing their own. • 2.3c Generate and harness new ideas and develop them in their writing. • 2.3f Use imaginative vocabulary and varied linguistic and literary techniques to achieve particular effects. • 2.3q Use planning, drafting, editing, proof-reading and self-evaluation to shape and craft their writing for maximum effect. • 2.3v Signal sentence structure by effective use of the full range of punctuation marks to clarify meaning. • 4.3a Develop independence in writing • 4.3e Evaluate and respond constructively to their own and others' writing. • 4.3i Write for contexts and purposes beyond the classroom. The Poem The Big Green Poetry Machine is visiting you to say We can all help save the environment by doing something today - Recycle, say no to litter, walk to school - don't get in the car Planet Earth can be saved, your efforts will go far Animals and plants are dying, Earth is sad, it really is a disgrace Eco-kids tell us how to save the world, make it a better place Use the power of words to tell us how we can help too Write a poem, your words will make a difference, tell us what to do! Introduction Read the poem out to the class. Discuss the themes and ask the class about any recent news stories they are aware of that relate to the discussion. Main Teaching Activity Split pupils into small groups and provide them with a copy of Michael Jackson's 'Earth Song' lyrics, 'Give and Take' poem by Roger McGough and 'The Law of Increasing Odds' poem by Paul Munden (all downloadable on our website). Ask pupils to work together to analyse and explore the vocabulary and syntax used in each poem. After 20 minutes bring the class back together to discuss their findings and interpretations of the poems. Make notes on the board. Working in the same groups, pupils now write a verse of a poem together. Allow 10-15 minutes for this activity. The aim of the poem is to write about making a difference in the world - any poetic style can be used from haiku or sonnet to free verse. The pupils then work independently to write their own poem. Plenary This is a 5-10 minute activity. Ask pupils to work in pairs to read their poem to their partner. Their partner is to provide feedback; something they like about the poem and a suggestion on how it could be improved. To extend the activity to a second lesson ask pupils to redraft, copy up and illustrate their poem. Differentiation For less able pupils suggest key words they must use in their poem and give a selection of poetry techniques to also be included, such as imagery, meter / tone and rhyming couplets. Suggest a poetic form, such as Echo Verse, or ask the pupil to write in the style of a famous poet. To challenge more able pupils who have a flair for language, poetry writing and technical ability suggest a poetic form, such as a sonnet. Notes This is a one-hour activity. Alternatively the brainstorming can be done in class (20-30 minutes) and the poem can be written as homework. The entry form provides suggestions for pupils to base their poem on so the activity can be done out of school hours. Download: Earth Song Poem Give and Take Poem The Law of Increasing Odds Poem |