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Year 10 - English

Analysing the poem 'Walking Away' by Cecil Day-Lewis

'Love and Relationships'

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupis explore 12 of the 15 poems from the 'Love and Relationships' anthology. Pupils complete two lessons about each poem: one on understanding and one on analysis. Pupils study the poems in four groups, and they pause after each group to compare how those poems present common themes.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explore how Day-Lewis uses language and structure to show the complexities of a father-son relationship.

Key Notes

  • Day-Lewis uses a simile to show the overwhelming pain he feels initially at the separation from his son.
  • Day-Lewis uses natural imagery to convey how he feels his son is not yet ready to be independent.
  • Day-Lewis uses a metaphor to suggest how although this is a natural process, it can be painful and deeply impactful.
  • Day-Lewis uses the resolution to reveal how since the moment of parting, he has learnt the importance of it.
  • Day-Lewis' use of a regular rhyme scheme could mirror the stable nature of parental love.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • rhyme scheme: pattern of rhymes (similar sounds) at the end of each line in a poem
  • resolution: the point in a narrative where conflicts stop developing and are resolved
  • sacrifice: giving up something valuable or important for the sake of others or a greater cause
  • nurturing: providing care, support, and encouragement to promote growth and development
  • unconditional: absolute, not subject to any limitations or requirements

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Analysis paragraphs should lead by 'feature-spotting' a technique and then linking it to key ideas.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Day-Lewis uses a simile to show the overwhelming pain he feels initially at the separation from his son. Day-Lewis uses natural imagery to convey how he feels his son is not yet ready to be independent.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'rhyme scheme'

pattern of rhymes (similar sounds) at the end of each line in a poem.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Analysis paragraphs should lead by 'feature-spotting' a technique and then linking it to key ideas. Correction: The most effective analysis paragraphs lead with key ideas supported by evidence from the text, analysis of writer's methods, a justification of ideas and a link to the writer's intentions.

More Lessons In This Unit

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