Introduction to Poetry LP
Instructor: Jonathan Holsapple
Rationale for Lesson:
This lesson is designed for seventh grade ELA writing students. This lesson is designed to
introduce the students to both poetry reading and poetry writing by first analyzing and defining
poetry (the word itself). From such analysis, students will begin developing a “culture of
individual and communal observation and exploration” of poetry in the classroom (Block).
Common Core Integrated ELA Standards:
Speaking and Listening
SL.7.1 – Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and
teacher-led) with diverse partners on grade 7 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas
and expressing their own clearly
SL.7.1d – Acknowledge new information expressed by others and, when warranted, modify their
own views.
SL.7.2 – Analyze the main ideas and supporting details presented in diverse media and formats
(e.g., visually, quantitatively, orally) and explain how the ideas clarify a topic, text, or issue
under study.
Writing
W.7.2 – Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and
information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content.
Language
L.7.5c – Distinguish among the connotations (associations) of words with similar denotations
(definitions) (e.g., refined, respectful, polite, diplomatic, condescending).
Content Learning Objectives:
1. Write informative/explanatory texts to examine and convey complex ideas and
information clearly and accurately through the effective selection, organization, and
analysis of content.
2. Prepare for and participate effectively in a range of conversations and collaborations with
diverse partners, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly and
persuasively.
3. Integrate and evaluate information presented in diverse media and formats, including
visually, quantitatively, and orally.
4. Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings
Introduction to Poetry LP
Materials:
Paper, pencil, whiteboard, dry-erase markers, projector screen, speakers
Procedures:
1. Defining poetry: Ask the students to write a self-generated definition of poetry
2. With their table groups, have students share their generated definitions with one another
3. Once table discussion has come to an end, each group will then write an agreed common
definition of poetry
4. Select a volunteer from each table to read one of their groups’ definitions of poetry. As
students read definitions, the instructor will write key words/phrases on the board for
display.
5. Once all groups have shared their definitions of poetry, present the students with a piece
of visual art (while keeping the classroom-generated definition of poetry written on the
board on display) and ask students if this artwork qualifies as poetry (Note: The
instructor should be sure to pull words/phrases from the class’ displayed definition of
poetry)
6. After considerable discussion, select a song to play for the class and have students again
consider its possible definition as poetry.
7. Ask students to reexamine their original definitions of poetry and add or remove
components to the class’ definition on the board.
Assessment:
As students are introduced to the topic, no formal assessment will be implemented. Rather, the
instructor should conduct a formative assessment on the students’ understanding of poetry by
listening to group and class discussion, raising questions and thoughts when necessary.
In the event of a non-talkative class, have the students write their original definitions on a
notecard rather than in a journal or piece of scrap paper. Then, using the same notecard, have the
students write a newly generated definition of poetry on the opposite side using the words and
phrases displayed on the board. Collect these notecards as exit-slips (another formative
assessment strategy gathered as students leave the classroom) and use their understanding to
adapt further instruction.
Resources
Block, Joshua. (Re)Creating Poets: How to Teach Poetry in the Classroom. March 2014.
Edutopia.org Dec 21, 2014.