Understanding the poem ‘Eden Rock’ by Charles Causley
I can explain how Causley presents an uncanny reunion between the speaker and their parents
Understanding the poem ‘Eden Rock’ by Charles Causley
I can explain how Causley presents an uncanny reunion between the speaker and their parents
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The speaker meets his parents in an ambiguous ‘dream-like’ location.
- The speaker describes his parents, particularly his mother, in intricate detail.
- The speaker also describes the picnic in intricate detail, suggesting he is recalling a memory.
- The speaker is separated from his parents by a stream which they encourage him to cross
- Causley grew up in Cornwall and has suggested that the fictional 'Eden Rock' is based on the Cornish landscape.
Keywords
Nostalgia - sentimental longing for the past, often idealised
Ambiguous - meaning is unclear or open to interpretation
Intimidating - causing fear or apprehension, often due to perceived power or authority
Vague - lack of clarity or precision, characterised by an absence of specific details
Caricature - exaggerated portrayal of someone that emphasises distinctive features or traits
Common misconception
Eden Rock is a real place.
Eden Rock is a fictional place, devised by the poet Charles Causley. Causley confirms this but does suggest that he based the location on the Cornish landscape where he grew up.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding the poem ‘Eden Rock’ by Charles Causley, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding the poem ‘Eden Rock’ by Charles Causley, 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 access to the poem 'Eden Rock' by Charles Causley. 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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