KINGDOM 1 Focus on ... repetition Poets use repetition to emphasise their point or to draw attention to an important theme.
In ‘Homework! Oh, Homework!’ the speaker emphasises their point of view through the use of repetition. In pairs, take turns reading the poem aloud. Spend one minute talking to your partner about the speaker’s point of view. Do you agree with what the speaker says?
Discuss
1. How does the speaker feel about homework? 2. Why do you think he feels this way? 3. How do you feel about homework? 4. Can you see any benefi ts of homework?
Understand
1. Count how many times the poet repeats the word ‘homework’ in this poem. Why do you think he does this?
2. Besides the word ‘homework’, does the poet repeat any other words or phrases? Explore 3 1. Do you think that this is a memorable poem? What stands out most?
2. The speaker says that he cannot see why homework exists. Give the speaker two reasons why homework is important.
Create
Carry out a class debate on the following motion: This house believes that school uniforms should be banned. (For information on debates see pages 47–48.)
