The title
This poem is about the death of a child. What do you expect the title to be?
Stanza 1
Is the word Never at the beginning of the poem effective?
Stanza 3
Why does the poet use the phrase I shall not murder?
Words and Phrases
Make a note of words you would use in a poem about the death of a child.
Poem Structure
What is the effect of the poem's structure on the mood of the poem?
Likes and dislikes
What did you like about the poem? What did you dislike?
Personality Image
What personality traits do you think this character has?
Venn Diagram
Consider what the similarities and differences are between both images.
Initial Response
What does the poem make you think about?
Extended Writing Task Part 1
Do you think Thomas is presenting the boys as bullies, cowards or heroes?
Extended Writing Task Part 2
How effective is the poet as an artist in presenting the hunchback in his poem?