ENGLISH- YEAR 7

Introduction

1.    Introduce the concept of a personal narrative by discussing how it involves more than just telling a story—it requires reflection on how the experience affected the writer.

2.    Review the prompts for describing the incident (Who was involved? What happened? Why was it memorable?) and for reflection (How did it change you? What did you learn from the experience?).

3.    Share an example of a personal narrative about a memorable event (it could be about an accident, achievement, or surprise). Break it down to highlight how the incident is described and how the writer reflects on its impact.

Introduction

1.    Introduce the task: Students will eventually write a persuasive letter to their favorite singer or band, convincing them to turn a classic poem into a song. Explain that today’s lesson will focus on analyzing a poem to understand its deeper meanings.

2.    Explain the SMILE framework:

o   S: Subject – What is the poem about?

o   M: Mood – What emotions or atmosphere does the poem evoke?

o   I: Imagery – What vivid images or descriptions are used in the poem?

o   L: Language – What language techniques (e.g., metaphors, alliteration, similes) are used?

o   E: Evaluation – What is your personal response to the poem, and why is it significant?

Introduction

1.    Explain that today’s lesson will focus on analyzing what makes a speech effective. Tell students they will soon be preparing their own speeches on improving the environment, so understanding how to engage an audience is key.

2.    Play a short video or audio clip of a speech on an environmental topic (e.g., a famous speech on climate change or a school’s recycling initiative). Ask students to listen carefully for:

o   How the speaker introduces their topic.

o   The language features (e.g., rhetorical questions, repetition, emotive language) used to engage the audience.

o   How the speaker concludes their speech and leaves an impact on the listener.

Introduction

1.    Introduce the concept of persuasive writing, explaining that it aims to convince the reader to accept a particular point of view. Discuss the importance of using persuasive language features.

2.    Present an example of a persuasive text (e.g., on a different issue like banning plastic bags). Read it aloud and ask students to identify persuasive techniques in the text, such as:

o   Rhetorical Questions: Asking questions to engage the reader and encourage them to think.

o   Emotive Language: Using words that evoke emotions, such as “unfair,” “essential,” or “freedom.”

o   Statistics/Facts: Providing evidence to support arguments.

o   Counter-arguments: Addressing opposing viewpoints and refuting them.

Introduction

1.    Introduce the poem My Country by providing background on Dorothea Mackellar and her inspiration for the poem, particularly her deep connection to Australia’s landscape.

2.    Play an audio or video recording of the poem, asking students to close their eyes and visualize the imagery.

3.    After listening, ask students to share their initial thoughts on how the poem made them feel. Write some key emotions and ideas on the board.

Introduction

1.    Introduce the poem The Highwayman by Alfred Noyes. Explain that it is a ballad, a type of narrative poem that tells a story, often about love, adventure, or tragedy.

2.    Ask students if they know what a "highwayman" is and when they were most common (18th century). Clarify any unfamiliar terms, such as "ostler" and "redcoats."