Sonnets - Year 7 & Year 8 - teaching resource

Sonnets – Year 7 & Year 8 Teaching Resource

This Lower KS3 teaching resource introduces pupils in Year 7 and Year 8 to the structure and style of sonnets in a clear, accessible, and engaging way. It uses a blend of model examples, scaffolded writing tasks, and differentiated activities to help all learners gain confidence with this classic poetic form.

The lesson begins with an introduction to the sonnet, using a Shakespearean example to explain the key ‘rules’ of sonnet poetry, including structure, rhythm, and rhyme scheme. Pupils then explore the model text, discussing its structure, language choices, and literary features.

In the second half of the lesson, learners follow a scaffolded writing process to create their own sonnets. With a worked example and class activity to build confidence, students then progress to drafting individual sonnets, applying their knowledge of structure and technique.

Differentiation is built in through Gold, Silver, and Bronze tasks, ensuring all pupils are supported and challenged appropriately. The resource is fully editable, allowing teachers to adapt it to suit different classes and abilities.

This lesson works well as a standalone activity or as part of a wider KS3 poetry unit, helping pupils to develop both analytical and creative writing skills.

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