In the Poet's Shoes: Performing Poetry and Building Meaning

Overview

From Theory to Practice

OVERVIEW

Through the use of dramatic reading and the exploration of Internet resources, sixth through eighth grade students build a greater understanding of poetry and the poet's voice. Further, the experience requires students to analyze and develop their own interpretation of a poem’s meaning and representation through performance. Extension activities involve students giving an oral poetry performance of their own poetry.

back to top

FROM THEORY TO PRACTICE

McMaster, J.C. (1998). "Doing" literature: Using drama to build literacy. The Reading Teacher, 51, 574–584.

• Drama is a useful tool in developing affect in readers; it creates interest and motivation.
  
  
• Drama provides the opportunity for students to develop fluency through the repeated reading of a text selected for performance.
  
  
• Through drama, students develop a deeper understanding of text because it requires them to determine emphasis and interpretation.

back to top