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Year 5 - English

Reading, responding to and performing 'In the Heart of a Book'

Poetry about personal experiences

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupils read, respond to and perform a variety of poems by different poets. They explore many themes, including love, hope, belonging, hate and resilience. Finally, pupils write their own poem about a personal experience.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to read and respond to a poem before performing it.

Key Notes

  • 'In the Heart of a Book' is a 20 line poem written by Liz Brownlee; the poem is split into 10 two-line verses.
  • The poem includes repetition through the use of anaphora.
  • Anaphora can draw attention to what books can provide readers with emotionally, while maintaining the poem's pace.
  • Understanding a poem, its language, imagery & the impression it creates will help us to create an impactful performance.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • anaphora: when a word or phrase is repeated at the beginning of multiple lines in a poem or speech
  • atmosphere: the mood created in a section or whole of a text
  • imagery: the use of language to create a mental picture or sensory experience for the reader or listener
  • gesture: a movement that helps express an idea or meaning
  • pace: the speed or rhythm at which a poem is read or performed

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Some pupils may not be able to think of a text that they have an emotional connection with.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

'In the Heart of a Book' is a 20 line poem written by Liz Brownlee; the poem is split into 10 two-line verses. The poem includes repetition through the use of anaphora.

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

when a word or phrase is repeated at the beginning of multiple lines in a poem or speech.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: Some pupils may not be able to think of a text that they have an emotional connection with. Correction: Remind pupils of texts that they have shared in class during the year or previous years. Model an example using a shared text.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 5 English guide library.