Self-Expression Through Poetry
HOW I T WORKS
Self-Expression Through Poetry is a multiple-intelligence
interactive student program that involves interdisciplinary learning in reading,
writing, and oral presentation using
word-processing software. This instructional software
program helps students in writing their own
poems as well as giving them an opportunity to
present the poems orally in front of their class.
While doing so, it instructs the students on
how to incorporate computer technology in their
class projects. The class meets every day in the
classroom and students have been previously
trained by the school technician to work on
computers. To introduce the topic of Self-Expression
Through Poetry, the teacher demonstrates the
techniques used to develop an understanding
of poems. A child’s poem is read to the class
and, substituting various nouns and adverbs in
the poem, the teacher develops his/her own
rendition. The students are instructed to assist
and enjoy doing so. A large array of poems is
then distributed to the class. They are asked to
p i ck out poems that they relate to and transpose
them and give an oral presentation in front of
the class. Photographs are taken. During the second phase, they draw pictures
for the front cover of a poetry booklet that they
will compile. They unanimously choose an appropriate cover. They use Kid Pix software to
develop a pictorial context. Finally, they collect
the information into a booklet called Child
Magazine to be presented and sold at the
presentation before their parents. Donated funds for the
booklet will go to a charity.
THE STUDENTS
Thirty fourth-grade students participated in this
class program, but it can be adapted to second
through sixth grade students, and can be used
with both large and small groups. Students with
limited English proficiency build computer and
writing skills. This builds motivation for
learning.
THE STAFF
Dr. Patricia Missick is presently a staff
developer and teacher at P.S.2Q, the Magnet School
of Interdisciplinary Learning. She is a
professional opera singer and author of several books.
She brings her talent to the classroom through
music and drama. Olga Anagnostos also assisted with this project.
WHAT YOU NEED
Required materials include a computer and Microsoft Office software
with word-processing and Kid Pix software. The teacher will need to
publish an array of children poems. A camera is
useful.
OVERALL VALUE
In addition to meeting the Language Arts
Standards with their participation, students involved
in this program develop their self-expression
skills as well as their self-esteem. They
communicate effectively with others and coordinate
their action while developing their technology
skills. When students integrate learning into the
world of technology, they set the pattern for
future generations. They capitalize on their
talents and skills, and prepare themselves for a
bright future in the field of writing. |