1 of 2 The Soldier by Rupert Brooke. A lesson exploring the ways in which war is presented.

This KS3 English lesson focuses on Brooke’s idealistic viewpoint and his ability to romanticize war. It is the first of two lessons. (In the second (Birdsong) pupils will contrast this viewpoint with the horrors presented in the Faulks novel, leading to writing poetry of their own.)

Pupils will explore new vocabulary, identify the poetic devices used, develop their own ideas and correct misconceptions, as well as be the detectives. Opportunities for creativity using the opening line “If I should die…” as well as challenging higher abilities with questions linked to context at the end of the lesson (or as starter for the next). Resources included support understanding of poetic devices and the ways in which they make the poets viewpoint clear, as well as a sheet including four copies of the text on a page for ease of printing.

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