"When students are actively reading and applying multiple reading strategies as they read, they are able to understand the text at a deeper level."
Poetry Slam!
A poetry slam is an event where poets gather to perform their original work in front of a live audience. The goal is to engage the audience and judges with a powerful and emotional performance of their work. Here are some key elements of a poetry slam:
Format: Typically, a poetry slam consists of multiple rounds with a set time limit for each performance. Judges are selected from the audience, and scores are tallied after each round to determine who will advance to the next round.
Performance: Poets are encouraged to use their bodies and voices to enhance the emotional impact of their words. This can include gestures, movement, and vocal inflections.
Originality: Poets must perform their own original work. The poems can be on any topic or theme, but they must be unique and not previously published.
Audience Participation: The audience is a crucial part of a poetry slam. They are encouraged to participate by snapping their fingers, cheering, and providing feedback to the poets.
Poetry slams can be a great way to engage students in the study of poetry. Teachers can organize a classroom or school-wide poetry slam event, where students can perform their own original work in front of their peers. This can be a fun and exciting way to build confidence and self-expression skills while also celebrating creativity and the written word.
More Great Ideas to Use This Month!
Book Trailers
What cooler way to ask for a summary of a book than to have students create a video detailing the beginning, middle, and end? Students nowadays are very engaged with video. Find a simple way to do this that could take up one class and use these videos in future classes.
Collaborative Writing
Have your students work in groups to write a short story together. Each student takes a turn writing a sentence, and the story continues until everyone has contributed. This activity promotes teamwork, creativity, and writing skills.
Current Events Discussion
Encourage students to read and discuss current events articles. This can help them build their critical thinking skills and deepen their understanding of the world around them.
