Terrorism is the use of violence that targets civilians. Terrorists are often motivated by extreme political or religious views. Terror attacks threaten the freedom of ordinary, innocent people.
In 2017, twenty-three people were killed in a terror attack at an Ariana Grande concert in Manchester. The extract below is taken from the poem ‘This is the Place’, originally written in 2012. The poem celebrates the spirit of Manchester and the people of the city, and it came to represent the defiance of the people of Manchester in the face of such a horrific act.
Watch the following video of the poem being read by Tony Walsh at a vigil in the aftermath of the attack.
1. Tony Walsh uses words like ‘ace’ to describe Manchester. Find three other words with positive connotations that are used to describe Manchester.
2. What evidence is there to suggest that the poet is proud of Manchester?
3. Give two examples of the ‘hard times’ that Manchester has faced, according to the poem.
4. Choose one line that shows Manchester’s resilience. Explore
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1. Write in detail about two aspects of ‘This is the Place’ that appeal to you. 2. Do you think this poem was a good response to the terror attack in Manchester?
3. Imagine you are part of the crowd listening to Tony Walsh reading his poem. Describe how you are feeling as you listen to the poem.
4. Why do you think it is important to protect and defend the freedom of ordinary people? Investigate
Find out more about the place where you live. Make a note of: important places in the area important people historical facts
Create
1. (a) Write a poem entitled ‘This is the Place’. Your poem should be based on the place where you live. Include some of the information that you found in the previous Investigate task.
(b) When you have finished, recite your poem for your classmates. 319
changes to the area facilities and amenities your favourite thing about the place.
