Exploring Poetry in Schools: Engaging Ways to Teach

5 Tips for Incorporating Poetry in Schools:

1. Start with the Basics:

To fully understand and appreciate poetry, students must first be familiar with the elements of poetry such as rhyme, meter, and figurative language. Try starting with a classic poem like Robert Frost’s “The Road Not Taken” and ask students to identify the rhyme scheme, meter, and figurative language used in the poem.

2. Making it Fun:

The key to getting students excited about poetry is to make it enjoyable. Incorporate games, activities, and interactive elements into your lessons. For example, try playing a poetry scavenger hunt where students have to find examples of specific literary devices in a selection of poems. Or, to make it more interactive, have students act out a scene from a dramatic monologue like Robert Browning’s “My Last Duchess.” Or bring out your silly side with Road Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes or by dabbling in nonsense poetry.

3. Encourage Self-Expression:

Poetry is an excellent way for students to express themselves creatively. Encourage them to try their hand at writing their own poems, and provide guidance and feedback as needed. A fun way to do this could be to have them write a poem in the style of their favorite poet.

4. Use A Variety of Poets and Styles:

Instead of sticking to one type of poetry or poet, mix things up by introducing students to a range of styles. From traditional sonnets to modern free verse. For example, to introduce free verse, show them Langston Hughes’ “Dreams” and ask students to compare it to a traditional sonnet like Shakespeare’s “Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day?”

5. Use Poetry as a Jumping-Off Point:

Poetry can be used to explore a wide range of subjects, from history to science to social studies. For example, use Maya Angelou’s “Phenomenal Woman” as a jumping-off point for a discussion on empowerment and self-esteem.