A 10–15 minute poetry starter focused on metaphor and imagery, designed to settle your class quickly and get students thinking.

Students explore an original poem in which attention is presented as a servant, constantly responding to the demands of the thinking mind.

In the classroom, this reflects a common experience: students often arrive already inside their thoughts, and as the lesson continues, their attention remains occupied. This makes it difficult for them to engage fully with what is in front of them.

The lesson makes clear that attention is not something students lack — it is something they can begin to notice and redirect.

At its core, the lesson asks:
Where is your attention — and what is it currently serving?

Best for: Year 8 (KS3)

What’s included:
Short original poem (clear, accessible, high engagement)
Metaphor and imagery focus
Quick write task
Ready-to-use, print-and-teach format

Use this as a lesson starter, bell task, or low-prep poetry activity — or as an entry point into a wider unit on attention, thought, and behaviour.

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