English practice

Narrative Poems

Poems that tell a complete story using characters, a plot, and a setting.

Shape Poems

Poems arranged on the page so the words form a visual image of the subject.

Nonsense Poems

Humorous, playful poems that use made-up words and absurd situations.

Acrostic Poems

Poems where the first letter of each line spells out a specific word or message vertically.

Imagery

Descriptive language that appeals to the five senses to create a vivid picture in the reader's mind.

Alliteration

The repetition of the same starting consonant sound in words that are close together.

Assonance

The repetition of similar vowel sounds within words that are close together.

Repetition

Repeating the same word or phrase multiple times to create rhythm or emphasize an idea.

Similes

A comparison between two different things using the words "like" or "as."

Metaphors

A direct comparison stating that one thing is another without using "like" or "as."

Personification

Giving human traits, feelings, or actions to non-human objects or animals.

A Theme

The underlying message in any form of literature.

First-Person Narration

Tommo tells the story from his own perspective, which makes the events feel much more personal.

Flashback

The entire book before the war acts as a look back in time, helping the reader understand Tommo's past.

Frame Narrative

WWI sets the scene for Charlie and Tommo's story, creating a unique way of conveying information.

Suspense

Waiting in the trenches for the Germans creates tension and nervousness for the reader.

Contrast

Wilkie shares chocolate with the boys to boost morale while Hanley makes Tommo march till he collapses, creating a feeling of injustice for the reader.

Sensory Imagery

The sickly sweet smell of the gas attack creates a feeling of panic for the boys.

Key Moment 1

Tommo's dad dies.

Key Moment 2

They meet Molly.

Key Moment 3

WWI starts.

Key Moment 4

The Colonel sends the boys to war.

Key Moment 5

Charlie disobeys Hanley.

Key Moment 6

Charlie's death.

Family and Brotherhood

Shown when Charlie stands up for Tommo at school.

Love and Loyalty

Shown when Charlie refuses to leave injured Tommo in a shell hole.

Memory and Grief

Shown when Tommo's dad dies and Tommo feels guilty about it.

War and Its Consequences

Shown when Wilkie dies of his injuries in the war.

Tommo Brave

Shown when he goes to bring back an injured soldier during machine gun fire.

Charlie Loyal

Shown when he refuses to leave injured Tommo in a shell hole.

Molly Thoughtful

Shown when she makes Big Joe a personalized card.

Big Joe Loving

Shown when he notices the family is upset and hugs them immediately.

Hanley Horrible

Shown when he makes Tommo march until he collapses