How High School Teachers Can Effectively Teach Poetry and Engage Students

As a science teacher who occasionally writes poetry, I have found that teaching poetry can be both challenging and rewarding. Poetry is a powerful tool that not only enriches students' understanding of language but also fosters critical thinking and creativity. However, to truly engage students and make poetry meaningful, teachers must be well-prepared and adaptable. In this article, we explore the strategies and approaches that high school teachers can adopt to effectively teach poetry.

Understanding the Importance of Poetry in High Schools

It is crucial for teachers to start by understanding the significance of poetry in their students' lives. Students listen to a wide variety of music, and much of this music is deeply rooted in poetic language. By identifying the types of poetry students are familiar with, such as hip-hop, and discussing why they enjoy it, teachers can bridge the gap between their students' interests and the academic study of poetry.

Exploring the Function and Persistence of Poetry

One of the key questions to ask students is the function of poetry. Why does it persist across cultures and time periods? Discussing the universality and emotional depth of poetry can help students understand its enduring relevance. Students need to know that poetry is not just a form of artistic expression but also a powerful tool for communication and self-expression.

Connecting with Emily Dickinson's Poem

To make this relatable, we can introduce a famous poem by Emily Dickinson titled 'I never lost as much but twice.' This poem can serve as a conversation starter, as it deals with themes of loss, resilience, and faith. A memorable line from the poem is:

'Twice before I ascended/ Before the door of God.'

Discussing why certain words like 'Burglar' and 'Banker' are capitalized can be a great way to engage students with the author's style. Dickinson's anger and daring in calling God a burglar can be a starting point for discussing the power of language and the poet's voice.

Insisting on Practicality in Poetry

Despite the innovative use of language, poetry is practical in its ability to be memorable. Its expressive nature makes poems easy to remember, and the fun of stretching words to rhyme can make writing poetry an enjoyable challenge. For example, a haiku can be a fun form to start with:

North wind blows / Buffalo NY freezes / Cold winter

This haiku represents a simple yet effective way to introduce students to the format and rhythm of haiku poetry.

Connecting Poetry to Modern Culture

To further engage students, teachers can draw parallels between contemporary forms of poetry and the traditional forms they study. For instance, discussing how hip-hop often incorporates poetic elements can make the subject matter more relatable and interesting. Highlighting the way poets like T.S. Eliot use poetry to express profound ideas can be a powerful way to inspire students to write and read poetry with a deeper appreciation.

Encouraging Student Participation

Around April is the cruellest month by T.S. Eliot, a poignant line from 'The Waste Land,' discussing the power of poetry in capturing moments of beauty and despair can encourage students to participate more actively in writing and reading poetry. Having students write their own haikus or short poems on themes they find relevant can be a rewarding exercise, as it allows them to express their own emotions and ideas.

Acknowledging the Difficulty of Poetry

It is important to acknowledge that teaching poetry can be challenging. Poems are not always easy to understand or appreciate, and it is common for students to feel frustrated. However, with the right tools and approaches, teachers can help students develop a deeper appreciation for the art form. Encouraging students to read and write poetry can lead to unexpected insights and developments in their creative and analytical abilities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, teaching poetry in high school can be a rewarding experience for both teachers and students. By understanding the importance of poetry, its function in society, and engaging students through relevant examples and interactive activities, teachers can foster a love for poetry in their classrooms. From exploring the works of Emily Dickinson to the modern forms of hip-hop, there are countless ways to make poetry a meaningful and enjoyable part of the high school curriculum.