by Kristin | Mar 6, 2024 | Poetry, Reading Comprehension, Writing
I love poetry, but I understand that I am in the minority here. Most students when asked to read poetry instantly become like deer in the headlights. And a part of the reason is because of the structure of poems from free verse to those that use poetry devices sound...
by Kristin | Jan 31, 2024 | Poetry, Reading Comprehension, Teaching the Standards
Typically, reading poems about death can be a big bummer. Maudlin musings describing the death of a loved one can greatly affect any audience, including the students in your classroom. Even though most people are fascinated by death as evidenced by movies, music, and...
by Kristin | Jan 17, 2024 | Poetry, Reading Comprehension, Teaching the Standards
I don’t know about you, but I love random holidays and events! I mean, it seems there is a day to celebrate everything from bagels to rainbows to curly-haired puppy dogs. And Leap Year or Leap Day is a time we celebrate only every 4 years! I guess that’s...
by Kristin | Aug 8, 2023 | Poetry, Reading Comprehension, Teaching the Standards
The word “poetry” for many middle and high school students causes immediate fear, panic, and/or apathy. The language, syntax, form, style, topic, etc. can be quite difficult to consume. Plus, reading poetry with a theme in mind instead of merely attempting...
by Kristin | Feb 21, 2023 | Poetry, Rhetorical Analysis, Teaching the Standards
Walt Whitman, an important 19th-century poet, has been a part of the American literary canon for over a hundred years. His poetry “transcends” because of his consuming focus on freedom in both personal and societal constructs. One can clearly see similar...
by Kristin | Dec 1, 2022 | Poetry, Reading Comprehension, Teaching the Standards
In a world of uncertainty, trepidation, and fear, it seems as if everyone suffers at one time or another from worry and anxiety. Our students, unfortunately, are no different! The following poetry about anxiety is inspired by my own personal fears and worries,...
