Allen, M. (1957). A Pocketful of Poems. New York: Harper & Row.
Hopkins, L. (1978). Merrily Comes Our Harvest In: Poems for Thanksgiving. New York:
Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.
“Apple Pie” by Else Holmelund Minarik, taken from “Merrily Comes Our Harvest In: Poems for Thanksgiving.”
This poem has a consistent “jump rope” rhythm. “Apple pie, / pumpkin pie / turkey on the dish!” The sentences are all short and abrupt ranging from two to five words. There are three stanzas that have seven lines each. The first two lines are repetitions, and the third and last (seventh) line of each stanza rhyme. The rhyming of the poem is definitely contrived, but I do not believe that this is a negative quality of the poem as it makes it fun for children. The poem utilizes a lot of repetition throughout, which makes it more predictable and easier to follow along. It also uses alliteration. “Apple Pie” appeals to the sense of sight when describing the apple pie, pumpkin pie and turkey as well as the narrator’s family. These images portrayed are all related to children’s delight. I believe that this poem portrays the things a child should be thankful for on thanksgiving, including food, family and surrounding love. The tone of this poem is simple but not patronized. Overall, this poem is appropriate for children and I think that it would appeal to the, as Thanksgiving is a holiday loved and appreciated by many. Additionally, the rhythm and style makes it enjoyable. The overall purpose of the poem is to show children that they should be grateful for what they have.
Diamante Poem for "I am Helen Keller" by Brad Meltzer
Poetry can be used to address various standards in the classroom. For example, a Science class can revolve around books that combine poems, facts and photographs. Additionally, a math lesson can be introduced with a poem. In my internship experience, I began teaching letter writing with a poem about all the components that go into this. It was effective and easy for students to remember. Poems can also be integrated into reading, social studies, art and technology by being creative and finding ways to link them to content areas.