Strictly an introductory course, The Word Artist teaches selected poetry writing for students in grades four through ten with little to no prior experience in writing poetry.
This 55-page book is divided into three units on poetry then adds a final unit on binding your own book so that students might create a personalized book of their own poetic efforts or other writings or artwork.
The first unit teaches poetic devices: the use of adjectives, alliteration, and onomatopeoeia. The second section covers non-rhyming poetic forms: acrostics, psalms, haiku, cinquain, quinzaine, shaped verses, and diamonds. The third section teaches rhyming poetry including couplets, stanzas, and limericks.
Each topic is explained and demonstrated with examples. Exercises or activities follow each bit of instruction. Christian content is used throughout the book although not exclusively.
This is a consumable workbook. Students will write directly in the books for most of the activities.
Students can work independently through this book, although a parent/teacher must be involved in reading the student's work, correcting exercises, and providing encouragement
You would likely use this book as a supplement to language arts instruction. It should probably take only a month or two to complete it if you use the lessons once or twice a week.
