Topic One (1.1): Figurative language and imagery

In this topic, you will develop how to interpret a poem by exploring the use of figurative language and imagery.

Read pages 34-35 of Unit 2 (Relationships) in Ignite 3. Complete the activities as you come to them.
For Questions 3 and 4, try to think about the figurative meaning – often poets and writers will use a metaphor to make us think of something else. Here, the idea of a Kite and an Anchor represents the relationship between a son and his mother. Think about what both objects represent and what they do.
You can check your answers here Download here.
Now read and do the activities on pages 36-37. Poets often use a wide range of punctuation to help them convey different ideas. It is always important to use a wide range of punctuation in your writing.
This poem is rich in imagery. It uses both metaphors and similes, so remember to use the glossary here if you need to revise the difference between them. Both techniques use a comparison, so in this poem the poet is describing her child to be like many different things. For each example you find, think about what the intended effect is. If it helps, mind map your ideas – there is not necessarily a right or wrong answer – just write down what it helps you to visualise and imagine.

Work through pages 28–31 in the SPG workbook to help you revise how to use apostrophes and hyphens. The answers can be checked on pages 83–84. If you need any help whilst completing the exercises in the workbook, remember that there are Spelling, Punctuation and Grammar Guides (SPG Guides) in the important course resources.
For more information on hyphens and dashes, see this page of Larry Trask's Guide to Punctuation.