A-level Study Boost: Unseen Poetry and the Creative Process from FutureLearn

Week 1 – Unseen Poetry Week 2 – The Creative Process Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more This course is designed for students studying A-level Englishliterature, language, history, and drama, and those looking tostudy English at university. It will also be of interest to anyone looking to develop their critical thinking about poetry and improve their skills in analysis and writing. This course will also be of interest to A-level teachers of thesame subjects looking for teaching resources and ideas to usewith their students in the classroom. You can use the hashtag #unseenpoet to talk about this course on social media.

Topics Covered

Ways to read and analyse poetry
Introduction to the poem, Patagonia
Feelings: Exploring different feelings towards text
Patterns: Breaking the text down
Puzzles: Tone and figurative language
Analysing and understanding the creative process
Ways to start writing a poem
Shaping a poem
Create and share your own poem

Reviews summary

A-level poetry: analysis & creative boost

According to the course design, learners can expect a targeted study boost aimed at A-level English students and those aspiring to university, focusing on unseen poetry analysis and the creative process. The curriculum is structured to enhance skills in reading and analyzing poetry, exploring figurative language, and practical guidance on writing and shaping poems. It also intends to be a valuable resource offering teaching ideas for A-level educators.

Provides valuable teaching insights and resources for A-level educators.

"As an A-level teacher, I'm hoping to find fresh teaching resources and ideas for my classroom use."

"I can see this course being a great asset for bringing new perspectives and techniques into my lessons."

"It seems like a good source for professional development related to effective poetry instruction."

Offers a clear, two-week structured approach to key poetry concepts.

"The two-week split into 'Unseen Poetry' and 'Creative Process' seems to offer a very clear and logical approach."

"I anticipate a systematic progression, moving from analysis fundamentals to the practical application of writing."

"The course content appears well-organized, ensuring a focused and manageable learning experience."

Integrates critical analysis of poetry with practical creative writing.

"I appreciate that it covers both understanding and dissecting poetry, as well as the practical steps of creative writing."

"It's exciting to see a course that balances critical thinking with how to start and shape my own poems."

"I believe this dual focus will make me a more well-rounded student of English and a better writer."

Specifically designed for A-level students and university entrants.

"As an A-level student, I expect this course to specifically target the skills needed for unseen poetry analysis and exams."

"I'm looking for a solid boost to prepare for studying English at university."

"It appears to be very helpful for my A-level English literature and language studies."

Likely most beneficial for learners with some prior A-level literary exposure.

"I'm wondering if some prior experience with A-level English literature concepts is expected for full benefit."

"This 'boost' might be less suitable for absolute beginners without any foundational literary background."

"I anticipate the course will build upon existing A-level understanding rather than starting from zero."

Career center

Learners who complete A-level Study Boost: Unseen Poetry and the Creative Process will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers: