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Year 10 - English

Analysing the poem 'No Problem' by Benjamin Zephaniah

'Conflict'

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupis explore 12 of the 15 poems from the 'Conflict' anthology. Pupils complete two lessons on each poem: one on understanding and one on analysis. Pupils study the poems in a thematically linked order so they can complete comparative and thematic lessons at key points in the unit.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain how Zephaniah uses language, form and structure to express his viewpoint.

Key Notes

  • The poem is a dub poem - a form of performance poetry of Jamaican origin.
  • Dialect is used throughout to illustrate Zephaniah's pride in his identity.
  • The repetition of the refrain highlights how racism is the problem in society.
  • The alliteration of plosive sounds could illustrate Zephaniah's anger.
  • Arguably, Zephaniah uses stereotypes to mock the prejudicial views of some in society.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • dialect: regional variation in language or speech, often influenced by culture or geography
  • conceptual: relating to abstract ideas, rather than tangible objects
  • discrimination: unfair treatment based on differences of protected characteristics such as race, gender or age
  • plosive sounds: sounds articulated with an abrupt release of air like 'p', 'b' or 't'
  • dub poetry: a form of poetry, originating from Jamaica, traditionally performed to reggae music

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Zephaniah's description of his "mother country" shows that his Jamaican cultural identity is more important to him that his British identity.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

The poem is a dub poem - a form of performance poetry of Jamaican origin. Dialect is used throughout to illustrate Zephaniah's pride in his identity.

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

regional variation in language or speech, often influenced by culture or geography.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Zephaniah's description of his "mother country" shows that his Jamaican cultural identity is more important to him that his British identity. Correction: Prior to Jamaican independence in 1962, many Jamaicans referred to the UK as their "mother country". This suggests that Zephaniah's British identity is very important to him.

More Lessons In This Unit

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