Living Space - teaching resource

Living Space by Imtiaz Dharker – WJEC Eduqas GCSE Poetry Anthology Teaching Resource

This comprehensive two-lesson mini-unit explores Imtiaz Dharker’s poem Living Space, featured in the WJEC Eduqas GCSE English Literature Poetry Anthology. Designed to develop students’ analytical and comparative skills, this resource provides an in-depth study of the poem’s context, language, imagery, themes, and structure, while also offering clear guidance on comparing it effectively with other anthology poems.

The teaching pack includes a 41-slide fully editable PowerPoint presentation and four accompanying worksheets packed with engaging and exam-focused activities.

Lesson One:

• Context: Introduction to Imtiaz Dharker and the inspirations behind Living Space

• First Reading: Guided reading of the poem with comprehension and consolidation questions (answers included)

• Language & Imagery: Detailed analysis of Dharker’s language choices and visual imagery, supported by model answers

• Essay Writing: An essay-style task to assess understanding, complete with a sample response

Lesson Two:

• Imagery: Further exploration of Dharker’s use of symbolism and vivid imagery

• Themes: Discussing themes such as faith, inequality, fragility, and resilience

• Structure & Form: Analysing Dharker’s use of free verse, stanza organisation, and contrast for effect

• Exam Focus: Comparing Living Space with London by William Blake, including model responses and strategies for writing effective comparative essays

Fully editable and adaptable, this resource is perfect for classroom teaching, homework, intervention, and revision, helping students prepare thoroughly for the WJEC Eduqas GCSE English Literature exam.

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