How To Teach A Poem

P. Arul NehruB Ed (English)EFLU

1. Introduce the theme of the Poem

Through

Individualized work

Class discussionGroup workPair work

2. Read the Poem aloud (With the students’ books shut)

Ask a (global) question or two

Help class recall words, phrases, lines from the poem

3. Read the Poem aloud again (with students’ book still shut)

Help the class rebuild the poem from memory

4. Read the Poem aloud yet again but with students following it in their books

Help the class combine their auditory and visual experiences

5. Ask the class to study the Poem silently

Supplement the glossary with explanations, if necessary

Encourage them to consult the glossary/note

6. Discuss the content, structure and style of the Poem

Use the comprehension questions

Ask supplementary questions, If necessary

• factual (significant details, cohesion etc)• evaluative (implications, literal Vs figurative, etc)• extrapolative (personal response)• global (coherence & overview)

7. Read the Poem aloud again or have it read out

Reconstitute the Poem!

8. Read out a thematically similar poem, if possible

Thank You