Welsh is a Celtic language, like Irish. The longest place name in Europe can be found in Wales, and it is quite a mouthful! Have a go at pronouncing it, then look it up online to see if you got it right.
The English translation of this place name is: St Mary’s Church in the hollow of the white hazel near to the rapid whirlpool and the Church of St Tysilio of the red cave.
Understand
1. What three sounds can you hear in the first stanza? Describe them in your own words. 2. Write six sentences describing the setting of this poem.
3. Find examples of the following poetic devices in this poem. Write the line from the poem which corresponds with each. Enjambment
Onomatopoeia Explore 3
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1. Do you think the child and the grandmother have a good relationship? Explain your answer.
2. What do you think the relationship is between the speaker and the person they are talking to? Give reasons for your answer.
3. What do you think is the theme of this poem? Explain your answer with reference to the poem.
4. If you had to rename this poem, what title would you give it and why? Choose one of the following alternative titles or come up with your own title and explain your choice.
‘Memories by the Sea’ ‘Living Language’ ‘Growing Up’
5. Suggest a song or piece of music to accompany a reading of this poem and give reasons for your choice.
6. Choose a poem you have studied that has a strong sense of place. (a) Name the poem and the poet.
(b) How does the poet succeed in creating this sense of place? Write three paragraphs to illustrate your point.
Investigate
Use your research skills to find out three interesting facts about the Welsh language and share your findings with the class.
Create
Imagine you are at the place described in ‘First Words’. Write a postcard to a friend describing your surroundings.
