Once again, I got to enjoy composing alongside my students today. This group of fourth graders was also working on “important” poetry, but we decided on pencils as our object. Here’s my contribution: The Important Poem The important thing about a pencil Is that it is sharp. It’s long, it’s yellow And you can twirlContinue reading “More Important Things”
Tag Archives: poetry
Important Poetry
Once again, my students and I are composing poetry, this time based on Margaret Wise Brown’s The Important Book. It’s such a charming read, and both the kids and I love how Brown takes ordinary things in our lives and sees the poetry within. The kids wanted to write their poetry today about paper. So, I joinedContinue reading “Important Poetry”
Finding Trusted Readers
Sometimes, I don’t have all the answers. (Whaaaaatttt? Stop the presses! And don’t tell my children.) Naw, just kidding. But really. I know I’m not the only one who gets blind to my own writing, unable to either see or overcome the shortcomings of my craft. That’s when I need somebody else’s eyes on my work.Continue reading “Finding Trusted Readers”
Putting Myself Out There: Part 1
Oh heavens. What a slippery slope. It starts with sharing this video about the typewriter orchestra with my young writers. And then a conversation about how musicians see the music in everything. And how poets see the poetry in everything. “Mrs. Levin, that would be cool to do.” “Yeah, it would.”… “Hey…I have an idea.Continue reading “Putting Myself Out There: Part 1”
When the Writing Gets Tough
First of all, happy poetry month! Those of you who read my blog know that I enjoy writing alongside my kids. I like to share my work and my struggles with them. The week before break, I asked the kids to take on an ambitious poem: to title and write a piece about an importantContinue reading “When the Writing Gets Tough”
Using Images to Establish Mood
A little while ago, my fourth graders and I began to pair poetry and art to show how words and images are powerful creators of emotional imagery. First, we talked about art. What mood do artists create, and what techniques do they use? Color? Light? Shade? Brush strokes? Position and treatment of the subjects? It wasContinue reading “Using Images to Establish Mood”
When in Rome
Whenever I assign my kids creative writing, I like to join along. For starters, it helps keep my own creative juices flowing. More importantly, I want my students to see me as a writer, right along with them. I want them to see what successes struggles I encounter as I work to improve my craft. Today,Continue reading “When in Rome”
On Carving Out Space
In my day, for breath After the priorities Have been shuffled through — A release, perhaps Of expectation, or the Desire for different Such is the promise Of a few moments caught at The end of long days.
Mother’s Lament (NaPoWriMo Day 9)
I can taste it, Like the first bite of a hot-fudge sundae Or a gooey, cheesy pizza So delightful Rich Decadent, Yet well-deserved. I long for it From deep within my bones I hunger I ache For a Good Night’s Sleep
Why I Don’t Write Limericks (NaPoWriMo Day 7)
Sometimes as a matter of course My thoughts into structure I’ll force In my strong efforts I’ll Replace substance with style (Putting the cart before horse)
Soapbox: The Way I see Things 