Looking for a meaningful way to introduce the AQA GCSE English Literature Power and Conflict anthology?

Instead of jumping straight into the set poems, this lesson uses Vanessa Kisuule’s powerful poem Hollow to introduce students to the big ideas that underpin the anthology. Through discussion, debate and analysis, students explore different forms of power, consider how context shapes interpretation and begin developing the analytical skills needed for success in the poetry section of Literature Paper 2.

This lesson includes:

• A thought-provoking Do Now activity exploring different forms of power.

• A brief introduction to the poetry section of GCSE Literature Paper 2.

• Explicit teaching of the TSLAP framework for approaching poetry.

• A guided analysis of Vanessa Kisuule’s poem Hollow.

• Exit questions designed to consolidate learning and encourage reflection.

Perfect as a first lesson before beginning the anthology, helping students engage with the big ideas behind Power and Conflict before encountering the set texts.