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KS2 / KS3 English Literature: A retelling of Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare - animation

Video summary

An animated version of William Shakespeare’s 'Romeo and Juliet' in a retelling of the classic play set to modern music.

Two powerful families in Verona, the Montagues and the Capulets, have been feuding for so long that they no longer remember why.

Two teenage members of the families, Romeo and Juliet, fall madly in love, but have to keep it a secret, even though they get married.

In a street fight Tybalt, Juliet’s cousin kills Mercutio, Romeo’s best friend; in revenge Romeo kills Tybalt.

Romeo then has to go on the run.

Aided by a monk, Friar Laurence, Juliet plans to rejoin Romeo and a scheme is hatched to convince everyone that she has died.

She tries to tell Romeo, but her message never reaches him and, thinking she really is dead, Romeo kills himself; Juliet quickly follows suit.

Finally the two families are reunited, though it is in tragic circumstances.

This is from the series: Shakespeare in Shorts

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Teacher Notes

Key Stage 2:

This clip could be used as an introduction to the play, consolidation of key aspects or for revision of the plot and characters.

It could also provide a springboard for pupils to write their own modernised versions of this or another Shakespeare play; perhaps using music or linked to developing artwork.

Key Stage 3:

This clip could form the basis for some improvisation work by students, or for learning and delivering sections of text.

It could also be used as a stimulus for creative writing tasks involving the inner life of specific characters.

This clip will be suitable for teaching English at KS2 and KS3 in England, KS3 and English Literature GCSE in Wales, KS1, KS2 and KS3 in Northern Ireland and 2nd, 3rd and 4th level in Scotland.

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