Poetry Activities for Repetition w/ Langston Hughes & 'Speaks...'

This comprehensive poetry analysis resource harnesses the power of Langston Hughes's iconic poem, "The Negro Speaks of Rivers," to delve into the literary device of repetition. Through expertly guided annotation, literary analysis (via short answer and essay assignments), and a stimulating creative poem-writing activity, this versatile resource facilitates a profound exploration of repetition in poetry.

This versatile resource is designed to be effortlessly divided into individual elements, perfect for use as session openers, brief writing exercises, or lesson plans for substitute teachers. However, educators also have the option to merge all the included activities into a comprehensive 1-2 week lesson plan that dives into the sophisticated use of repetition in poetry.

The implementation of this resource is straightforward! Initiate your lesson by introducing and discussing the poem using the analysis activity provided - an excellent way to kick-start your class. After this, allot time for students to engage with the guided annotation activity and answer the accompanying analysis question (with an answer key provided for your convenience!). Then, invite your students to craft their own poem, employing the poetic concept they've examined in the previous tasks. Conclude your lesson with an assessment of their understanding of the poem and its poetic elements through a literary analysis essay. This assignment includes a clear prompt, helpful writing tips, a peer review procedure, and a rubric in alignment with Common Core standards!

Your TeachSimple download includes:

• A POEM ANALYSIS ACTIVITY: Give students the opportunity to read Langston Hughes' "The Negro Speaks of Rivers” (text included) and analyze the poem via an annotation activity and accompanying analysis questions (answer key included). Ideal for a bell ringer!

• A CREATIVE WRITING ASSIGNMENT: Provide students the opportunity to further develop their understanding of repetition with a creative poem writing assignment (tied to one Common Core Writing Standard). Ideal for sub plans!

• A LITERARY ANALYSIS ESSAY: This essay assignment builds on students' understanding of repetition and Hughes' "The Negro Speaks of Rivers.” The assignment handout includes essay guidelines, analysis prompt, literary analysis writing tips, and a peer review checklist. The included rubric is tied to 4 Common Core ELA Standards and includes a link to an editable rubric that allows for grading customization and seamless integration into Google Classroom and many other Learning Management Systems (LMS's)

Although this resource can be fitted for any secondary Language Arts classroom, it has been carefully designed to work best in grades 9 through 12. The included rubric is subtly but specifically tied to Common Core ELA Standards for Language (1 and 2) and Writing (2 and 4). This resource is provided in print-ready, bookmarked, and adjustable PDF files and PowerPoint Show files.

This resource contains 5 pages and 1 Google Sheet.