My Last Duchess - AQA - teaching resource

My Last Duchess by Robert Browning – AQA GCSE Power and Conflict Poetry Teaching Resource

This comprehensive two-lesson mini-unit explores Robert Browning’s My Last Duchess, featured in the AQA GCSE English Literature Power and Conflict poetry anthology. Designed to enhance students’ analytical skills and exam confidence, the resource provides a detailed study of the poem’s language, imagery, structure, themes, and context, alongside guidance on writing effective comparative essays.

The teaching pack includes a 58-slide fully editable PowerPoint presentation and five accompanying worksheets, featuring a range of engaging and exam-focused activities.

Lesson One:

• Context: Introduction to Robert Browning, his life, and literary influences

• First Reading: Guided reading of My Last Duchess with glossary, comprehension, and consolidation tasks (answers included)

• Language & Imagery: Analysing Browning’s word choices, symbolism, and metaphors with model responses

• Essay Writing: A practise essay question to assess initial understanding, complete with a sample answer

Lesson Two:

• Imagery & Techniques: Examining Browning’s use of imagery, tone, and poetic devices

• Themes: Exploring key ideas including power, control, pride, and the objectification of women

• Structure & Form: Analysing Browning’s use of dramatic monologue, rhyme, rhythm, and enjambment

• Exam Focus: Comparing My Last Duchess with Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley, supported by strategies and model answers for writing effective comparison essays

Fully editable and adaptable, this resource is ideal for classroom teaching, homework, revision, and intervention, helping students prepare effectively for the AQA GCSE English Literature exam.

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