Poetry Chapbook Collection (Poets A-G)

Last class we completed the following:

1. Select one collection of poetry from a poet whose last name begins with A-G.
2. Read this collection.
3. As you read, I am asking you to simply notice the poems you enjoy and the poems that don’t “thrill” you.
4. Make a list in your journal of poems you like and poems you don’t like. Put poems that don’t move you at all in the “not like” pile.
5. After you have read the collection, examine your “LIKE” list.
6. Consider what the poet is doing in poems you DO like. Is it a phrase or line that excites you, an image, a juxtaposition of words? Is it the topic or theme? Is it the setting or character or the voice of the character that pulls you into the “experience” of the poem? Or is it something else? Perhaps a shared experience or an insight that the poet recalls through his/her words.
7. Explain in a “Dear poet” letter what you liked about the poet’s work. Try to explain clearly. Use examples or make reference to the text to help you explain yourself.
8. Turn in this “Dear Poet” letter as your “exam” for this collection.

3rd period, please complete the "Dear Poet" letter and turn in. 4th period, be prepared to select one poem you enjoyed the most from your collection to share with the class. You will be expected to read the poem out loud to the class for participation credit.

Reminder: Your journal will be due next week. Make sure you are writing in it!