In K–1, Shared Poem occurs for five minutes, four times a week. Shared Poem consists of reading poems together as a class to develop scholars’ oral language, phonemic awareness, comprehension, and to enjoy the fun of language!
Shared Poem inspires scholars as they revel in the enjoyment of poetry and builds confidence in their ability to make meaning.
What Is the Structure of a Shared Poem Lesson?
During Shared Poem, scholars read and discuss a poem over two days.
Day 1: Read the Poem
- Read aloud, then together 2–3 times.
- You must read the poem in a way that illuminates the meaning for your scholars. Modulate your voice and tone, and use gestures to convey the meaning for scholars.
- Notice and discuss rhyming words, alliteration, and other examples of word play.
- The goal is to make this fun and engaging—not to drill scholars on phonics.
Day 2: Discuss the Poem
- Reread the poem 1–2 times.
- Have scholars make a mind movie as you read and think about the feeling the poem gives them.
- Discuss the poem and unpack the meaning.
- Ask, “What’s happening in the poem?” and “What are you envisioning?”
- Ask, “What does that make you think?” and “Why did the author write this poem?”
