We FINALLY went back to school today after three snow days in a row! Much to my disappointment though, many of my kiddos were still absent, so my plans for using my Customary Length center task cards went right out the window. I was pretty bummed considering I had them all cut out and ready to go. Oh well, we must learn to roll with the punches, right? I will hopefully use these guys tomorrow when more of my class returns...
On a different note, we are working on a poetry unit throughout February and March. We have been chatting a lot about the use of sensory devices within poetry. Today's focus was on the use of onomatopoeia words. We had a bunch of fun brainstorming examples together as a class. After our brainstorm session, we analyzed excerpts from popular poems to find onomatopoeias within the text. Some examples of the poems we used were: "The Bells" by Edgar Allan Poe, "The Rusty Spigot" by Eve Merriam, and "Fossils" by Ogden Nash.
Next, the students were asked to create their own poem using at least 3 onomatopoeias. To differentiate instruction, my students who struggle with writing were given an example list of onomatopoeia words which we read aloud together. These students were asked to choose three words they liked, and center their poem topic around these words. The students performing on or above grade level, were given the freedom to choose words on their own, with the additional challenge of incorporating more than three words into their poetry.
My students still greatly stuggle with organizing their writing and forming cohesive written thoughts, so I was rather pleased that each of my students were able to remain focused on one topic throughout their poem. :) Take a look at some of the poems they created.
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| I love that I can visualize this silly exchange in my mind. |
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| I enjoyed the format of this poem and the way the student chose to space out each onomatopoeia. |
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| My favorite line: "It purred to me a wonderful song" |
To close the lesson we analyzed the lyrics to the popular song, "The Fox" by YLVIS which is jam packed with onomatopoeia words. The students really enjoyed dancing around and singing to this song. I loved seeing that final "aha!" moment for my students who were still a little hazy on the lesson.
Finally, for homework, the students were asked to finish an onomatopoeia artwork piece. I saw this fun idea on Pinterest via Artisan des Arts. Check out what has been completed so far.
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| I decided to join in on the fun too...hehe... |
Tomorrow, as a follow-up extension, the students will show their artwork to the class and explain the rationale for their piece. Then, the kids will read today's poems from another classmate and find the onomatopoeia words within the writing.
What are some creative ways you introduce imagery to your students? Are there other famous poems you have used to teach similar lessons on sound devices? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Zoom, Bam, Boom!
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