Unit Two

Willow and Ginkgo/ A Loaf of Poetry

Pages 216-217

Learning Targets:

  • I can define simile.
  • I can understand figurative language.
  • I can note sensory details (five senses.)
  • I can create similes and incorporate them in my own writing.

Set

Fold a blank sheet of paper into quarters.

Agenda:

  1. Explain that willow and ginkgo are two different types of trees and tell students that you will be reading a poem called "Willow and Ginkgo."Ask students to draw a picture in the top left section of the paper showing what they think a willow tree looks like and a picture in the bottom left section of what they think a ginkgo tree looks like. Reassure them that this is only a guess and they will not be graded on the accuracy of their drawings.
  2. Distribute copies of the poem and have students underline all of the willow similes in one color and all of the ginkgo similes in another color. (Remind students that one of the reasons authors use similes is to paint a picture with words.)
  3. Have students read aloud the willow similes and then ask them to draw a picture of a willow tree in the top right section of their papers, using the author's words to help them add detail to their picture.
  4. Then have students read aloud all of the ginkgo similes and draw a picture of a ginkgo tree in the bottom right section of their paper, again using the author's words to help them add detail to their picture.
  5. When students are finished, they can share their completed work in a small group or with the whole class. Display online images of these trees or view page 215.
  6. Each student will receive a simile poem brainstorming worksheet. Students will develop each trait into a simple simile (e.g., eyes as brown as chocolate).
  7. Read A Loaf of Poetry to determine similes used.

Have students look for similes at Said What? Similes. This page contains a list of similes in alphabetical order. Other sites:

Giggle Poetry

The Poetry Zone: Teaching Zone

Poetry4Kids.com

Assessment

  1. Have students discuss, with a partner or as a whole group, if or how their drawings changed after listening to the poem. Post the reflection question:

Did the similes help you to "see" the gingko and willow more clearly? Why or why not?

  1. Students will write a poem using their simile worksheet.