Analysing the poem 'Charge of the Light Brigade'
I can explore how Tennyson uses language and structure to powerfully express his messages about conflict.
Analysing the poem 'Charge of the Light Brigade'
I can explore how Tennyson uses language and structure to powerfully express his messages about conflict.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The poem is written in dactylic dimeter which echoes the forceful sound of horses galloping.
- The ballad contains a refrain, which could highlight the inevitability or scale of the tragedy.
- Tennyson personifies death to create a sense of foreboding, emphasising the vicious attack the soldiers faced.
- Tennyson alludes to Psalm 23, perhaps to criticise those in power who did not fulfil their duty to protect.
- The semantic field changes from that of danger and death to that of honour, bravery and heroism in the final stanza.
Keywords
Patriotic - showing love and devotion to your country
Refrain - a short part of a poem that is repeated
Allusion - a reference to a well-known character or event to deepen the reader’s understanding
Common misconception
It is impressive to be able to identify and name structural techniques in an essay.
It is much better to be able to comment on why certain structural techniques have been used and the effects of them, over just naming them in an essay.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Analysing the poem 'Charge of the Light Brigade', 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 'Charge of the Light Brigade', 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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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the 'Conflict' unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the AQA Power and Conflict Anthology for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
''Honour the Light Brigade''
The last stanza and ballad form
“While horse and hero fell’’