Inspired by “The River” by Valerie Bloom, © Valerie Bloom. Used under fair dealing for educational purposes. Full poem text not reproduced so please refer to an authorised publication for classroom reading. This is a short, rhythmic poem that is simple enough for EAL learners but rich in imagery, metaphor, and sound. Lesson Overview Lesson Focus (Key Skills) and the Outcome Understanding the Poem (Reading comprehension, listening) Identify who/what the poem is about Describing & Imagery (Adjectives, metaphors, similes) Describe the river using your own words Feelings & Personification (Emotional language, discussion) Explain how the river behaves like a person Rhythm & Sound (Reading aloud, performance) Perform a verse with voice and gesture My Own Poem (Writing, creativity) Write a short poem comparing nature to a person or emotion