Understanding the poem 'Poppies'
I can explain the main themes and ideas explored in the poem ‘Poppies’.
Understanding the poem 'Poppies'
I can explain the main themes and ideas explored in the poem ‘Poppies’.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- ’Poppies’ is from the poetry collection 'Exit Wounds’ which explores lesser-recognised experiences of war
- Written from the perspective of a mother, Weir presents the quiet trauma of those who lose close relatives at war
- Weir's poem struck a nerve with many mothers who had lost their children during conflict
- Weir is a textile designer and applied the technique of felt making to this poem to explore the deep process of grief
Keywords
Grief - intense sorrow usually associated with the death of something or someone
Perspective - a point of view
Timeless - not restricted to a particular time or date
Common misconception
Students may associate war poetry with soldiers of the first world war and not consider other perspectives.
Many other people were affected by war in less obvious ways than the soldiers themselves.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the AQA Power and Conflict Anthology for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on
Lesson video
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