July 13

Let loose your imagination through Kenning Poem

A kenning is a stylistic device in Old English and Old Norse poetry that replaces a simple noun with a more descriptive phrase, often a compound word or a metaphor. It adds richness and depth to the language by providing vivid imagery and insight into the object or action being described.

Learning outcomes:

  1. List three words that alliterate with the five words given.
  2. Choose an animal and think of three or more kennings to describe it.

What Are Kennings?

A kenning is a metaphorical expression replacing a noun, often found in Old English and Norse literature. It combines two words to create a vivid image, such as “whale-road” for the sea.

Examples of Kennings:

  • Whale-road: The sea
  • Sky-candle: The sun
  • Battle-sweat: Blood

Creating Your Own Kenning Poem:

Follow these steps to craft your own kenning poem:

  1. Choose a theme.
  2. List objects, people, or actions related to the theme.
  3. Create kennings for each item on your list.
  4. Combine your kennings into a poem.

Sample Kenning Poem:

Whale-road’s roar,

Fish-home’s floor,

Sailor’s path,

Wind’s breath,

Ship’s speed,

Foam-capped steed,

Sun’s rise,

Blue’s eyes.

You could try out the Quizizz to test your comprehension about Kennings as an additional task.

https://quizizz.com/admin/quiz/5c13ee8dfe7ae3001b7517ec/kennings

Try writing your own kenning poem and share it in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more poetry tips and lessons!

Would you like more detailed guidance on any particular part of this process?

July 21

Informative Writing

Definition

It aims to educate the reader about a specific topic. It provides facts, explanations, and insights without expressing the writer’s opinion or persuading the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint.

Key Features

  1. Clarity and Precision:
    • Use clear and precise language.
    • Avoid ambiguity and complex sentences.
  2. Objective Tone:
    • Maintain a neutral and unbiased tone.
    • Avoid expressing personal opinions.
  3. Fact-Based Content:
    • Rely on verifiable facts and data.
    • Include statistics, examples, and evidence from credible sources.
  4. Organised Structure:
    • Present information logically.
    • Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points for easy navigation.
  5. Detailed Explanation:
    • Provide thorough explanations.
    • Include definitions, descriptions, and analyses.

Structure of an Informative Essay

  1. Introduction:
    • Introduce the topic.
    • Provide background information.
    • State the purpose of the writing.
  2. Body Paragraphs:
    • Divide into sections based on subtopics.
    • Start each paragraph with a clear topic sentence.
    • Include supporting details and evidence.
    • Use transitional phrases for coherence.
  3. Conclusion:
    • Summarize the main points.
    • Restate the importance of the topic.
    • Avoid introducing new information.

Tips for Effective Informative Writing

  • Know Your Audience: Understand the knowledge level and interests of your readers.
  • Use Reliable Sources: Reference trustworthy sources to enhance credibility.
  • Be Specific: Avoid generalizations; provide specific details.
  • Visual Aids: Incorporate charts, graphs, and images to illustrate points.
  • Stay Focused: Stick to the main topic and avoid tangential information.

Common Types of Informative Writing

  • Essays and Reports: Structured pieces focused on a specific subject.
  • Articles: Published works in newspapers, magazines, or online platforms.
  • How-To Guides: Step-by-step instructions on performing a task.
  • Encyclopedia Entries: Concise articles providing an overview of a topic.
  • Research Papers: In-depth studies presenting original research.

Sample Informative Essay

The Importance of Renewable Energy

Renewable energy refers to energy generated from natural resources that are replenished naturally over time, such as sunlight, wind, and geothermal heat. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and contribute to environmental pollution, renewable energy sources offer a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative. As the world faces the pressing challenge of climate change, the shift towards renewable energy has become increasingly crucial.

One of the most common types of renewable energy is solar energy, harnessed from the sun using solar panels. Solar energy is abundant and can be used for generating electricity, heating, and cooling. Wind energy, another popular renewable source, involves converting kinetic energy from the wind into mechanical power through wind turbines. Wind farms are becoming a common sight, especially in coastal and rural areas.

Hydropower is another significant source of renewable energy, generated from the energy of moving water, typically through dams. It is one of the oldest and most widely used renewable energy sources. Geothermal energy, derived from the heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface, provides a reliable source of power and heating. Biomass energy, which converts organic materials such as plant and animal waste into bioenergy, is also gaining traction as a renewable energy source.

The benefits of renewable energy are numerous. It reduces greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, helping to combat climate change. By diversifying energy sources, countries can reduce their dependence on imported fuels and enhance their energy security. Additionally, the renewable energy sector creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance, contributing to economic growth. Moreover, renewable resources are naturally replenished, making them a sustainable long-term energy solution.

Despite the benefits, there are challenges to the widespread adoption of renewable energy, including high initial installation costs, technological limitations, and the need for substantial infrastructure changes. However, advancements in technology and increased investment in renewable energy are making it more affordable and efficient. Governments and organizations worldwide are recognizing the importance of transitioning to renewable energy, introducing policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of renewable technologies and paving the way for a cleaner and more resilient energy landscape.

Join the Knowledge Network!

Click the link below to join the Google Classroom and dive into Task 1: Crafting an Informative Essay. Let’s Learn, Share, and Grow Together!

https://classroom.google.com/c/NzAwNzc4NDUwNDI5/a/NzAxMTc0MjAwMDc1/details

July 14

Meet a modern poet who uses kennings

Rhyme and Rhythm

Learning outcome:

  1. Read and discuss the three questions about the kenning poems ‘Dad’ and ‘Mum

Seamus Heaney Irish poet and playwright

Rhyme:

  • Rhyme refers to the occurrence of words that have similar ending sounds
  • In poetry, rhyme often occurs at the end of lines and helps create patterns and structures within the text

Rhythm:

  • Rhythm refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in a line of poetry
  • It creates a sense of musicality or flow, dictating the pace at which the poem is read or recited
  • Rhythm creates a musical quality in poetry, making it more enjoyable to read or listen to
  • The repetition of stressed and unstressed syllables creates a cadence that can be pleasing to the ear, drawing the reader or listener into the poem’s flow

Example:

Discussion Task 1:

Read and leave a comment discussing the kenning poems Dad and Mum.

(a)  Discuss why the poet chose these images.

(b)  What clues suggest he is a modern poet?

(c)  How does the layout of the poem, without commas, indicate a list? How would you write it in a paragraph?

Additional References:

https://www.asnc.cam.ac.uk/resources/mpvp/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/From-kenning-to-kenning-poem.pdf

https://projects.iq.harvard.edu/cb45/kennings

July 13

Welcome to Learn English with Ms. Sharvini

In this course, you will embark on an exciting journey to improve your English language skills with the guidance of Ms. Sharvini, an experienced language teacher. Ms. Sharvini’s innovative teaching methods focus on practical and engaging lessons that will help you become more confident in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English.

You will learn essential grammar rules, vocabulary, and pronunciation techniques that will enhance your communication skills. Ms. Sharvini will also provide valuable tips on how to effectively communicate in various real-life situations, such as job interviews, social gatherings, and travel experiences. By the end of this course, you will have the tools and knowledge to communicate effectively in English with ease.

Key Lesson Concepts:

(i) Practical and engaging lessons

(ii) Focuses on reading and writing skills

(iii) Learn grammar rules and vocabulary