TEXTBOOK ASSIGNMENT

Poetry

Poetry is not a genre, it is a form of literature.  It can be found in many different genres such as fantasy, historical fiction, realistic fiction and in traditional literature.  Novels in verse are not the same as poetry though the form and format may be similar. 

Most neglected form of literature

Research study done in 1974 by Ann Terry.  Subject: Elementary Students.  Five conclusions on what type of poetry works well with kids and what kids like.

·       Prefer narrative poetry

·       Disliked free verse and haikus

·       Prefer Rhyme and rhythm and sound devices.  Such as alliteration and onomatopoeia

·       Funny poems, poems regarding familiar experiences, and animals were popular.

·       Preference for contemporary poems.

Tells kids that poetry does not have to rhyme, can be about anything, they are the authors so they have free range.

When evaluating poems:

·       The poem should create some kind of vision or imagery

·       Should not be brought down to a child’s level

·       Should allow kids to interact with the poems

·       Should be good enough for repeated reading.

·       The subject should be something that the child should be familiar with.

·       Does the poem rhyme?  Though poetry does not have to rhyme,  young readers need it to rhyme to be able appreciate other forms on non-rhyming poetry later on

·       How is the rhyme used?

·       What role does sound play? 

·       Subject should touch the child

·       Simple stories and introduces stirring scenes of action

Awards for Poetry

·       NCTE Excellence Award in Poetry

·       Lee Bennett Hopkins Poetry Award