An Introduction to Beowulf: Language and Poetics

This is a great introductory lesson plan for Beowulf. Good lesson plan with printables and additional websites.

Weblink address (URL): 
An Introduction to Beowulf: Language and Poetics

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

Students will:

  • be introduced to Old English, the language of Beowulf.
  • know the relationship between Old English and Modern English.
  • learn about alliteration and alliterative verse.
  • understand kennings, a poetic device common to Old English poetry, and how they are used in Beowulf.

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Understanding
Extension suggestions: 
  • Formulas: Review the formula section of the Beowulf: Language and Poetics Quick Reference Sheet and The Electronic Introduction to Old English section on formulas (14.3) and have students look for formulas as they read Beowulf.
  • Variation: Review the variation section of the Beowulf: Language and Poetics Quick Reference Sheet and The Electronic Introduction to Old English section on variation (14.2) and have students look for variation as they read Beowulf.
  • Follow this lesson with the ReadWriteThink lesson, Reading Literature in Translation: Beowulf as a Case Study.

Helpful Hints

Materials:

  • Beowulf: Language and Poetics Quick Reference Sheet
  • Old English Beowulf Passage Handout
  • Modern English Beowulf Passage Handout
  • Excerpt from “The Age of Anxiety" by W.H. Auden

References

Contributors: 
Tonya Malone
Originator: 
Ayers Institute for Learning & Innovation