Michael Rosen’s “Strict”: Explore Mood, Tone, and Performance – Poetry Analysis & Discussion

Bring poetry to life in your classroom with this engaging, ready-to-teach lesson based on “Strict” by Michael Rosen. Perfect for exploring how poets use language and performance to create mood and emotion, this resource supports students in developing analytical and speaking/listening skills through a fun and accessible text.

What’s Included:

• Teacher-led ActivInspire flipchart (PDF included).
• Discussion worksheet with 7 thought-provoking questions
• Example answer sheet for class comparison or scaffolding
• Links to video and text versions of the poem for multi-modal learning

Key Features:

• Focus on performance poetry, mood, and inference
• Includes links to video and written versions of the poem
• Encourages discussion, critical thinking, and emotional literacy
• Designed for classes with EAL learners or mixed abilities
• Linked to the UK National Curriculum (KS2) but could work for KS3
• Minimal prep – just print or project and teach!

Perfect For:

• English / Literacy/ Guided Reading lessons
• Poetry units
• PSHE links to expression and emotion
• Drama or speaking & listening sessions
• Cover lessons or enrichment activities