Struttin' With Some Barbecue: Make a rhythmic poem with the author

Beginning with a brief powerpoint, Patricia will model some very lively and rhythmic poetry. The students can read along with the visual. She'll talk a bit about the anapest (triple) rhythm, using the well-known "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Students will supply ideas, via chat if it's a large group, or by raising their hands if it's a small group. The group will construct a poem with an anapest rhythm (du du DUH, du du DUH) guided by the author. Patricia will advise the students to use repetition, modeling how; as well as alliteration, rhyme, choosing the right words, the importance of strong verbs.

The students will be encouraged, afterwards, to listen to their favorite music, or their choice of rhythmic music (rap, pop, classical, be-bop, early jazz, Mo-town, etc.) until it's under their skin, in their bones, then write a story/poem (perhaps about the musician who makes that music or a topic set in the era of the music) of their own. And to have fun!