Poetry

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Home : 2004 : January : 27

Poetry
By Judy

Sylvia,
I used to do a whole poetry unit in 6th grade and my daughter did the same type of thing in high school. Here are a few suggestions:
1.) Choose a poem and read it with class. Give them a copy of the poem
with blanks so they can "re-write" the poem in their own words but keep the same style. Two poems that work well are: If I Were In Charge of the World by Judith Viorst and Daybreak in Alabama by Langstan Hughes. Discuss what they would change if they ruled the world, then complete the first poem. With this one you would have to set rules..like nothing rude or crude. HOwever, the Daybreak

in Alabama poem is great for thinking about what they want to do in their life. It's also great for diversity. I got some very touching poems from the sixth graders using this poem as a sample.

2. Introduce styles of poetry writing..like Cinquain, Acrostic, Limerick, Free Verse, Pyramid, etc. Write one as a class and then have each student make one of their own. Put an artistic border of 1 inch around the page that depicts the content of the poem.

3. Begin a poetry portfolio. I required my 6th graders to write at least 10 of their own poems. You can also submit their poems in a contest and have them published. (Go to www.poeticpower.com to see how you can get your students published. ) I've had about 7 students published in this venue. Also, I found www.poetrypower.com as I was looking for the other site for you...check it out..may be good for 8th grade. If you want any more suggestions, I'll be glad to email you privately.