Using punctuation in poetry
I can use a range of punctuation for effect in poetry.
Using punctuation in poetry
I can use a range of punctuation for effect in poetry.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Punctuation is important in poetry as it shows the reader when to pause for meaning or dramatic effect.
- The same punctuation we use to write ordinarily can also be used in poetry.
- Colons can be used to introduce an idea or list.
- Enjambment is when lines of poetry flow onto each other, creating a fast pace.
- Caesura is when there is a pause in the middle of a line, to draw attention to a particular idea or slow the pace.
Keywords
Caesura - a pause in the middle of a line of poetry
Enjambment - when lines of poetry flow onto each other, creating a fast pace
Colon - a punctuation mark used to introduce a list, quotation or explanation
Common misconception
Pupils may think that the same punctuation rules apply in poetry and other types of writing (e.g. full stops are needed at the end of lines).
Poems are not bound to formal punctuation rules. Having flexibility allows the poet to shape their poem based on emotion rather than grammar rules.
To help you plan your year 7 english lesson on: Using punctuation in poetry, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 7 english lesson on: Using punctuation in poetry, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 english lessons from the Poetry about place and home unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
used to end a sentence
separates items in a list
express surprise or shock
introduces items in a list
Exit quiz
6 Questions
My mother always told me: “Home is a feeling".
Home is my favourite place: it holds my happiest memories.
Home has everything I need: comfort, family and peace.