Analysing the poem 'Climbing My Grandfather' by Andrew Waterhouse
I can analyse how Waterhouse uses language and structure to convey the complexity of reminiscing about a lost loved one.
Analysing the poem 'Climbing My Grandfather' by Andrew Waterhouse
I can analyse how Waterhouse uses language and structure to convey the complexity of reminiscing about a lost loved one.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Waterhouse use an extended metaphor to compare climbing a mountain with reflecting upon the past.
- Waterhouse uses imagery to convey the precarious and multifaceted nature of the climb and remembering a loved one.
- Waterhouse juxtaposes the comfort derived from the 'grandfather memory' with the painful process of reminiscing.
- Waterhouse uses imagery to create a peaceful and tranquil final image of the grandfather.
- The single, unbroken stanza could reflect the unending process of grieving for a loved one.
Keywords
Extended metaphor - the repeated use of the same metaphorical idea throughout a text
Ambivalent - experiencing conflicting emotions about something or someone
Precarious - a situation that is unstable, risky or dangerous
Juxtaposition - two contrasting ideas that appear next to each other
Stanza - a group of lines in a poem that function like a poetic paragraph
Common misconception
Ambivalence means you do not care either way (similar to indifference).
Ambivalence is when someone has mixed or conflicting feelings about something or someone.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Analysing the poem 'Climbing My Grandfather' by Andrew Waterhouse, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Analysing the poem 'Climbing My Grandfather' by Andrew Waterhouse, 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.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the 'Love and Relationships' unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You will need two different coloured pens or highlighters and access to the poem 'Climbing My Grandfather' by Andrew Waterhouse. This can be found in the AQA Love and Relationships Poetry Anthology.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
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