The teaching of English poetry in the lower forms of secondary school

Abstract

This study investigates the field of English Literature teaching in secondary schools, particularly English poetry teaching methodology in the lower forms of secondary schools, both Junior Lyceum and Area Secondary. The study focuses on four Forms One and Two teachers, two in the Junior Lyceum and two in the Area Secondary. Data collection was through classroom observations and teacher interviews. This study found that in the case of the teachers in the sample, teachers' beliefs on the teaching of poetry were not always reflected in their own practice. This was particularly the case in the areas of learner enjoyment, resources, quality of response, and teaching objectives. In addition, it was found that annual examinations had a significant washback effect on classroom practice, in terms of set tasks and teacher input. This study also presents a series of sixteen poetry lesson plans aimed at the lower forms of secondary schools that have been designed in the light of the observations and the specialist literature.