Lesson #59: Poetry
Writing some poetry
1. Free verse warm-up: Use your worksheet for lesson #57 to organize the
words and phrases about “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” to write a
poem. Just arrange them in lines – it’s OK to have only one word on a line.
You may want to remove or add some in order for it to make sense. You
may even want to add a sentence or part of one.
2. After having listened to several spoken word pieces of poetry you are to
write one of your own.
a. Choosing a topic can be the most difficult part – finding something
that you know well and care about is the most important thing here.
Remember that we are all experts on a bunch of subjects
b. Once you have a topic begin to write some ideas. Brainstorm and
don’t worry about sentences or organization. Fill at least one page
with your thoughts.
c. Shape your spoken word piece by organizing and fitting your
brainstorm ideas into a poem.
d. Be aware of the poetic devices we studied. Alliteration, repetition,
theme and others will make your ideas work better and be more
interesting to listen to.
e. Finally, you will have an opportunity to present or simply submit
your result … it’s up to you.
Here’s what I’m looking for:
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Is it clearly poetry and not prose?
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Are several poetic devices used?
Do the poetic devices add to the overall
effect of the poem?
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Does the poem use symbolism and
metaphor effectively?
Does the poem produce an emotional
response?
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Does the poem have a coherent theme
or seek to produce a certain effect?
Are the ideas clear complete and well
developed?
Is there a purposeful rhythm and flow to
the language?
Are words well chosen for audience and
subject?

Is the poem written or read with passion
and enthusiasm?
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Overall assessment of the poem