The Highwayman: Exploring Narrative Poetry
Year 5 English Poetry Unit 20 Minutes
WALT: We Are Learning To
Understand what narrative poetry is Identify key elements of storytelling in poems Explore language techniques used by poets Analyse character and setting in 'The Highwayman'
Success Criteria
I can explain what makes a poem 'narrative' I can identify the main characters and setting I can find examples of descriptive language I can discuss the story's beginning, middle, and end
What is Poetry?
Think about poems you know How are they different from stories? What makes them special?
What is Narrative Poetry?
Narrative = telling a story Poetry = using special language techniques Narrative poetry = poems that tell complete stories They have characters, settings, and plots like stories
Meet Alfred Noyes
English poet (1880-1958) Wrote 'The Highwayman' in 1906 Famous for romantic and adventure poems Loved telling stories through poetry
What is a Highwayman?
A robber on horseback Stopped coaches and stole from travelers Active in 17th-18th centuries Often romanticized in stories and poems
Prediction Activity
Look at the title: 'The Highwayman' What do you think this poem will be about? Who might the main characters be? Share your predictions with a partner
First Reading: Listen and Enjoy
Listen as I read the poem aloud Don't worry about understanding everything Focus on the rhythm and mood Notice any words or phrases that stand out
First Impressions
How did the poem make you feel? What images came to mind? Was it what you expected?
Key Characters
The Highwayman - mysterious robber Bess - the landlord's daughter Tim the Ostler - loves Bess secretly The Landlord - Bess's father King George's soldiers - the antagonists
Setting the Scene
Time: 18th century England Place: A country inn on a lonely moor Atmosphere: Dark, mysterious, romantic Weather: Windy, moonlit nights
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