In this assignment, you will memorize and recite a poem of your choice and then reflect on your experience. You may choose a poem you have previously read or do research to find a new one. Your poem needs to be a minimum of eight lines. You will then reflect on your memorization and recitation experience by writing a short response. You will complete the assignment by submitting your written response.
*Make sure to choose a complete poem, rather than a section of a larger work.
You will write a 2-3 paragraph written response reflecting on the experience of choosing, memorizing, and reciting your poem. Make sure to include the author and title of your chosen poem. Here is a list of possible questions to incorporate into your reflection. It is a good idea to answer 5-8 of the following questions in your reflection:
What did you do to prepare in advance for reciting the poem? How well prepared were you?
How well did you memorize the poem? What strategies did you use for memorizing? Did you forget any of the words?
How accurate was your recitation?
Did you speak at a pace and volume appropriate to the poem and audience?
How successful were you at communicating the meaning of the poem by using your tone of voice, structure and rhythm?
Did you present yourself well, using good posture and confident appearance?
How did you use eye contact, the volume of your voice, or other means to connect with others during the poem?
How did the audience respond to the poem and your recitation?
Did you enjoy your performance?
Here are a few suggestions of popular poets. You are not required to use these poets, but they can be a good starting point! Remember, your poem needs to be a minimum of eight lines.
Robert Frost
Langston Hughes
William Shakespeare
Shel Silverstein
Emily Dickinson
Walt Whitman