Name _________________________
Block______________
English 9: Poetry Unit
Three-Column Poetry Notes
Second Level/Interpretive
Notes written in this column
will focus on why certain
words, phrases, or lines are
significant or important to the
meaning of the poem. In the
left-hand column, write notes
that address the following
tasks.
1. Mark examples of
figurative language
and write possible
meanings
2. Look for shifts that
occur (time, place,
point of view, etc.)
3. Underline lines that
address the key
questions: why & how
First Level/Literal
Make notes on the following aspects of the poem:
1. Circle new or unfamiliar vocabulary.
2. Underline words, phrases, or lines that answer the
key questions: who, what, when, where.
3. Place question marks next to sections that are
confusing.
"Cost Of Livin” Ronnie Dunn
Everythin' to know about me
Is written on this page
A number you can reach me
My social and my age
Yes, I served in the army
It's where I learned to shoot
Eighteen months in the desert
Pourin' sand out of my boots
No, I've never been convicted of a crime
I could start this job at any time
I got a strong back, steel toes
Rarely call in sick, a good truck
What I don't know I catch on real quick
I work weekends, if I have to, nights and
holidays
Give you forty and then some
Whatever it takes
Three dollars and change at the pump
Cost of livin's high and goin' up
I put Robert down as a reference
He's known me all my life
We attend the same church
He introduced me to my wife
Gave my last job everythin'
Before it headed south
Third Level/Critical
Notes written in the right column
should focus on the universal
meaning. Why is the poem
important to study? What does
this poem have to do with me?
What do I think about this poem?
What does this poem say about
people?
Took the shoes off of my children's feet
The food out of their mouths
Yesterday my folks offered to help
But they're barely gettin' by themselves
I got a strong back, steel toes
I rarely call in sick, a good truck
What I don't know I catch on real quick
I work weekends, if I have to, nights and
holidays
Give you forty and then some
Whatever it takes
Three dollars and change at the pump
Cost of livin's high and goin' up
I'm sure a hundred others have applied
Rumor has it you're only takin' five
I got a strong back, steel toes
I'm handy with a wrench
There's nothin' I can't drive
Nothin' I can't fix
I work sunup to sundown
Ain't too proud to sweep the floors
Bank has started callin'
And the wolves are at my door
Three dollars and change at the pump
Cost of livin's high and goin' up