Tanka Poetry - Year 7 - teaching resource

Tanka Poetry – Year 7 Teaching Resource

This Lower KS3 poetry lesson introduces Year 7 learners to the traditional Japanese form of tanka poetry in a simple, engaging, and accessible way. Designed especially for lower ability groups, the resource combines model examples, scaffolded activities, and differentiated support to help pupils develop confidence in both reading and writing poetry.

The lesson begins with an example tanka and a clear explanation of the ‘rules’ of tanka poetry, including line structure and syllable count. Pupils then work collaboratively to construct a group poem using scaffolding materials.

Learners are then given the opportunity to write their own individual tanka using differentiated worksheets at three levels (higher, medium, and lower) to ensure appropriate challenge and support for all abilities.

This resource makes an excellent standalone lesson or can be taught as part of a broader KS3 poetry unit. It helps pupils build creativity, develop an understanding of poetic form, and gain confidence in their writing skills.

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