The Oasis - Writing Poetry to Commemorate

Students explore and compare the relationship between empathetic response, personal values and social action. In a free-writing exercise, they consider their own view of the issue of homelessness and contrast it with their analysis of the viewpoint put forward in Ben Harper’s song ‘Homeless Child’. Students then find and view three sections from THE OASIS that highlight the manner in which Paul Moulds engages with those around him, and work collaboratively to create a mind map that outlines the influence of Paul on the people he engages with. Students create a bio-poem that further explores Paul Moulds, his approach to his work and life, and the effect that he has on those who encounter him.

Key ideas to explore:

• Representations of social issues can be used to either engender or confront attitudes and values.
• The relationship between empathetic response, values and social action.