Storm on the Island - teaching resource

Storm on the Island – AQA GCSE Power and Conflict Poetry Anthology

This two-lesson mini-unit provides an in-depth study of Seamus Heaney’s ‘Storm on the Island’, a key poem from the AQA GCSE Power and Conflict Poetry Anthology. Perfect for classroom teaching, intervention sessions, and revision, this comprehensive resource helps students develop the skills needed for close analysis, comparison, and exam success.

The resource includes a 51-slide fully editable PowerPoint and five accompanying worksheets, designed to engage learners and deepen their understanding of the poem’s context, language, themes, and structure.

Lesson One:

• Context – A concise introduction to Seamus Heaney and the Northern Ireland conflict

• First Reading – Guided reading with glossary, comprehension questions, and model answers

• Language & Imagery – Detailed analysis of Heaney’s techniques with structured activities

• Essay Writing – An exam-style essay question with a sample response

Lesson Two:

• Imagery & Poetic Techniques – Exploring sibilance, simile, metaphor, and vivid description

• Themes – Understanding power, conflict, fear, and the forces of nature

• Structure & Form – Analysing rhythm, rhyme, enjambment, and dramatic effect

• Exam Focus – Comparing Storm on the Island with The Prelude: Stealing the Boat and practising comparison essay skills

This resource is fully editable and can be adapted to suit different abilities, teaching styles, and classroom needs.

To preview the full resource, select “View All Slides” and click on the images.

Get access to thousands of pages of resources. Find out more about membership here.