American Literature Project: Introduction

Literature
Introduction lesson









At the end of the lesson, you will be able to understand the definition of literature and form your own opinion about poetry.
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Slide 1: Slide
EngelsMiddelbare schoolhavo, vwoLeerjaar 4,5

This lesson contains 19 slides, with text slides and 2 videos.

time-iconLesson duration is: 40 min

Items in this lesson

Literature
Introduction lesson









At the end of the lesson, you will be able to understand the definition of literature and form your own opinion about poetry.

Slide 1 - Slide

To Literature
or not to Literature?

Slide 2 - Slide

When is a piece of text poetry?

Slide 3 - Slide

Slide 4 - Slide

Slide 5 - Slide

3

Slide 6 - Video

Slide 7 - Slide

Slide 8 - Slide

01:28
What are some recognisable characteristics of poetry?

Slide 9 - Slide

02:12
What do you think? Are songs poems?

Slide 10 - Slide

02:49
Why would a writer use 
line breaks?

Slide 11 - Slide

Literature and Poetry
Literature encompasses written works, including poetry, which expresses ideas, emotions, and experiences through language and form.

Poetry is characterised by its use of rhythm, meter, and often, figurative language to evoke emotions and convey meaning.

Slide 12 - Slide

Gwendolyn Brooks
(1917-2000)
First African American to win the Pulitzer Prize in 1950

struggles and joys of life

impact of poverty on the black community

Slide 13 - Slide

Slide 14 - Video

Exploring Imagery and Word Choices
Identify the words and phrases that stand out to you. What images do they create in your mind?

Write down the words and phrases that suggest the behavior and attitude of the characters in the poem.

How do the imagery and word choices contribute to the overall mood of the poem? 

Slide 15 - Slide

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46446/still-i-rise

Slide 16 - Slide

Character Study
Read the poem again and think about the group of characters described.

Imagine the background and lives of these characters. What might have led them to the behaviors mentioned in the poem?


Slide 17 - Slide

Creative Response
Reflect on the themes of rebellion, identity, and consequences in the poem.

Write a modern-day version of the poem, using similar themes but in a
contemporary setting (e.g., social media, technology, etc.). 
Please write this in your writing portfolio.

Slide 18 - Slide

Wrapping up
What important elements will you remember after today's lesson?

Anything you are still unsure about? 

Slide 19 - Slide