(Prerequisites: Learners should be familiar with parts of speech, such as nouns, adjectives and verbs. Learners should also be comfortable with the initiative of writing independently, although accurate spelling is not necessary!)

Let's take the word 'overwhelming' out of the poetry process, and replace it with creative, freeing and fun!

Throughout our 6 weeks together, we will discover and put into practice a new type of poetry during each class. Beginning with the first class, learners will be equipped with a running word bank packet, sectioned off into nouns, adjectives, verbs and synonym examples. What will make this packet ‘running’ is that students are encouraged to add to it when new vocabulary inspires them. We will use this packet as a reference when building our poems, genuinely striving to enjoy language and challenge ourselves to try new words in our writing.

Each class meeting will begin with an introduction to the week’s specific poetry style (see below), with a modeling lesson of how to put this style into practice (using teacher made templates/ organizers). There will be space for open discussion, and even brainstorming of ideas and words that inspire us from our running word bank packet. While all poetry work is expected to be done during class time, there may be weeks that a learner chooses to finish, or revisit, their poetry writing outside of class.

POETRY SCHEDULE:

Week 1: Acrostic
Week 2: Calligram/ Shape
Week 3: Palindrome
Week 4: Blackout
Week 5: Lune
Week 6: Cinquain