Creative Writing I: Poetry
Mrs. Graff
Room 201
Email: hgraff@pv-eagles.org
Phone: Ext. 7245
Objective of the course:
In this course, students will comprehensively study the genre of poetry. Students will explore literary works, identifying methods and elements that make established writers successful. Applying these techniques, students will craft poetry, developing a style and voice for their writing. Peer editing and the revision process will be emphasized. This course will not only guide developing writers in perfecting their craft but will also encourage writers to view growth and reflection as a natural process of being a writer.
Materials Needed:
Each student is expected to bring the following to class EVERY day:
Writing utensils
Poetry anthology (we may use books and/or websites for poems)
Chromebook
Course Overview:
Marking Period 1:
Essential Questions
How does poetry differ from prose?
How does form influence the meaning of a poem?
How does figurative language enhance a poem?
How can we determine the speaker of the poem?
How do the connotations of words influence the meaning of a poem?
Unit 1: Form Poetry
Poetic form and structure; rhyme scheme
Marking Period 2:
Essential Questions
How do writers express social or political beliefs?
What role does poetry play in contemporary culture?
How can poets liberate their words from the page, creating an auditory experience?
In what ways do writers such as Nikki Giovanni and Minnie Bruce Pratt seek change via writing? How does an artist compose lyrics?
How are music lyrics a form of poetry?
Unit 2: Poetic Elements
Figurative Language; speaker; tone/voice/ family rhyme; imagery; writer’s
workshop
Course Expectations:
Lateness - Students are expected to arrive to class on time. Lateness to class will be treated according to the district guidelines.
Absences – Students are expected to report to the teacher or another classmate for all missed work. Do not expect the teacher to notify any student of missed work. Makeup work is the student’s responsibility. For assignments due on the day the student is absent, the assignment is expected to be handed in that following day. For example, if a poem is due on Monday, and a student is absent, the poem is due on Tuesday. A 10% penalty will be assigned for each late day, and no major assignment will be collected after three late days.
Class Conduct – This course is designed to expose students to various methods of writing as well as to develop and strengthen writing skills through self-editing, peer revision, and group workshops. While constructive criticism is welcomed, be polite in all written and spoken comments and never ridicule a classmate’s work. It is suggested in any workshop setting that the writer remove himself personally from the written work; however, that is not always an easy feat. Be considerate of all classmates’ feelings.
Mature behavior is expected in class. Disruptions, inappropriate language or gestures, and lack of courtesy for fellow classmates or the teacher will not be tolerated.
Assignments – Expect occasional homework, which will usually entail a short reading exercise or brainstorming activity. Sometimes, one will be required to finish an assignment outside of the school setting; adequate time for such tasks will be provided.
A daily writing prompt and/or poetry reading will be completed every day. Students will respond to the prompt on Google Classroom. For poetry readings, students will read poetry anthologies of their choice and critique select poems.
Plagiarism - Copying the work of any source (internet, magazine, another student’s work, etc.) without proper credit is not acceptable. Any assignments or papers plagiarized will earn a failing grade, as outlined in the grading policy.