Year 9 - English
An introduction to slam poetry
Creating and performing slam poetry
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit, pupils learn about slam poetry and practise performing it. They first learn what slam poetry is, before analysing and emulating the sounds used in slam poetry. They then plan and create a slam poem, before then developing their performance of it.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to understand what slam poetry is and use this knowledge to explore the conventions of a slam poem.
Key Notes
- Slam poetry can be considered different to more conventional, written forms of poetry.
- Slam poetry is created to be performed out loud and responds to audience feedback.
- Slam poetry uses poetic devices such as onomatopoeia, alliteration and repetition to engage the audience.
- Harry Baker is an example of a slam poet.
- The poem 'Where The Wild Things Are' conforms to the conventions of slam poetry.
Vocabulary To Learn
- convention: the established techniques, forms, and styles that poets commonly use to convey meaning and emotion
- conventional: describes something that is usual, traditional or widely accepted in a particular context
- preconceptions: ideas or opinions formed in advance about something, often based on assumptions rather than facts
- colloquial: informal language or expressions that are commonly used in everyday conversation rather than in formal writing or speech
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Slam poetry doesn't have any rules or conventions, so anything goes. It's just speaking to an audience.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.
Slam poetry can be considered different to more conventional, written forms of poetry. Slam poetry is created to be performed out loud and responds to audience feedback.
2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'convention'
the established techniques, forms, and styles that poets commonly use to convey meaning and emotion.
3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.
Mistake: Slam poetry doesn't have any rules or conventions, so anything goes. It's just speaking to an audience. Correction: While slam poetry encourages creativity and self-expression, it does follow certain conventions, like using sound techniques, imagery and themes. These conventions help poets effectively communicate their messages and engage the audience.
More Lessons In This Unit
Browse all guides in the Year 9 English guide library.