Iambic Pentameter

1. Introduce iambic pentameter

Begin by explaining that Shakespeare wrote his plays using different techniques, not just everyday speech.

Ask the children to repeat the words "iambic pentameter" together.

Explain that iambic pentameter follows a rhythmic pattern that sounds like this: da DUM, da DUM, da DUM, da DUM, da DUM.

Say it aloud, really emphasising the DUM. Repeat the pattern several times with the group and ask the children to clap on the strong beat to help them feel the rhythm.

2. Explain what iambic pentameter means

Ask the children how many strong beats they can hear and how many weak beats.

Explain that an iamb is a weak beat followed by a strong beat, and that penta means there are five of them in each line. That is why it is called iambic pentameter.

3. Learn a line together

Teach the children this line from A Midsummer Night's Dream:

• The COURSE of TRUE love NEver DID run SMOOTH.

Say the line together, clapping or stressing the strong beats.

Alternatively, use Hippolyta's opening lines:

• Four DAYS will QUICKly STEEP themSELVES in NIGHT.
• Four NIGHTS will QUICKly DREAM aWAY the TIME.

Encourage the children to clap or say the strong beats more firmly.

4. Introduce catalectic trochaic tetrameter

Next, introduce a different rhythm by asking the children to chant: DUM-da, DUM-da, DUM-da, DUM-da.

Ask them if they can hear how this feels different. Explain that the stress comes first this time and that there are only four strong beats. Tell them this rhythm is called catalectic trochaic tetrameter and that this is how the fairies speak.

Explain that Shakespeare often gave fairies and witches this lighter, bouncier rhythm because it feels magical and playful.

Try one of Puck's lines together:

• CAPtain OF our FAIry BAND,
• HELeNA is HERE at HAND;

6. Explain that rhythm isn't always used in Shakespeare's characters

Finally, explain that ordinary characters, like the Mechanicals, do not speak in rhythm at all. They talk normally, just like we do.