Study Guides

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 how a slam poet creates sound, and use this understanding to create your own refrain and stanza.

Key Notes

• Sound is an important feature of slam poetry, it adds to the dynamic and energetic performances.
• Harry Baker uses a refrain to emphasise key ideas and engage the audience.
• In his refrain, Baker uses repetition, direct address and exclamatives.
• Baker demonstrates that onomatopeia can be effective in slam poems, but needs to be used carefully.

Vocabulary To Learn

• form: the specific type or category of a poem that determines its structure and style
• emulate: to imitate or match something or someone, often with the intention of achieving the same success or quality
• onomatopoeia: a word that imitates or resembles the sound it describes
• refrain: a repeated line or group of lines in a poem or song, typically at the end of a stanza
• dynamic: a lively and engaging performance, full of energy, to keep the audience interested

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Adding "bang" or "crash" to the end of a line or stanza is an effective way to use onomatopoeia.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• An introduction to slam poetry Study Guide
• Creating a dynamic slam poetry performance Study Guide
• Planning and creating a slam poem Study Guide