Drummer Hodge - teaching resource

Drummer Hodge by Thomas Hardy – WJEC Eduqas GCSE Poetry Anthology Teaching Resource

This comprehensive two-lesson mini-unit explores Thomas Hardy’s moving war poem Drummer Hodge, featured in the WJEC Eduqas GCSE English Literature Poetry Anthology (first assessment 2027). Designed to develop students’ knowledge and confidence, the resource provides detailed guidance on analysing the poem’s context, language, structure, and themes, as well as comparing it effectively with other anthology poems in the GCSE exam.

The teaching pack includes a 48-slide fully editable PowerPoint presentation and five accompanying worksheets with a wide range of structured, exam-focused activities.

Resource highlights:

• Contextual Background: The Boer War, Thomas Hardy’s influences, and the historical setting of the poem

• Close Reading: Stanza-by-stanza analysis with comprehension questions and suggested answers

• Language & Imagery: Exploring Hardy’s use of poetic techniques, imagery, and symbolism

• Structure & Form: Analysing rhyme, rhythm, and organisation for effect

• Themes: Examining war, death, nature, youth, and the loss of innocence

• Exam Practice: Model essay questions with example responses to support analytical writing

• Comparison Guidance: Advice on comparing Drummer Hodge with other anthology poems, including Remains, War Photographer, and Disabled

Perfect for whole-class teaching, homework, revision, and intervention, this resource equips students with the skills to analyse the poem confidently and prepare effectively for the WJEC Eduqas GCSE English Literature exam.

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WJEC Eduqas Poetry

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