A 10–15 minute poetry starter focused on imagery and descriptive writing, designed to settle your class quickly and get students thinking.

Students read an original poem which explores performance pressure through the metaphor a basketball player training in the dark.

In the classroom, this reflects a common experience: students often
i) perform differently when they feel watched or judged
ii) lose confidence when attention shifts to how they are being seen
iii) find it harder to think clearly under pressure

The lesson makes clear how pressure and self-awareness can interrupt performance, even when ability is secure. Through close reading and precise use of text evidence, students explore how imagery presents movement, control, and freedom — before applying this to their own writing.

At its core, the lesson asks:
Why is it easier to perform when no one is watching?

Best for: Year 8 (KS3)

What’s included:
i) Short original poem (clear, accessible, high engagement)
ii) Multiple choice comprehension quiz
iii) Quick write task
iv) Ready-to-use, print-and-teach format

Use this as a lesson starter, bell task, or low-prep poetry activity — or as part of a wider sequence exploring performance, pressure, and confidence.

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Find the full text sequence here:
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