Reading and Writing Poetry

How do you create a poem about childhood memories?

For now, brainstorm and write down any childhood memories that come to mind - birthday parties, major snowstorms, holidays, picnics, etc.

Use your handout to explore six aspects of a single memory using sensory details.

In the first aspect or "room" of the memory, picture it in your mind. Describe what you see - colors, shapes, objects, people.

In the second aspect or "room" of the memory, describe the light in the memory. Is the sun bright? Are there any shadows? Is it night? Do you see sparkling, twinkling stars?

In the third aspect or "room" of the memory, describe the sounds you remember. Do you hear voices, the rustling of leaves, the sound of rain, thunder, or the wind?
If it is silent in your memory, what kind of silence is it? Is the silence empty, lonely or peaceful?

In the fourth aspect or "room" of the memory, write down questions you have about the memory. What would you want to know more about the memory?

In the fifth aspect or "room" of the memory, write down your feelings about the memory. Were you excited, scared, surprised, embarrassed, etc.?

In the sixth aspect or "room" of the memory, read over what you wrote in the previous "memory rooms" and select words or phrases that feels important. Then write that thought and repeat it three times.

If you have trouble writing about any of the aspects of the memory, just imagine what something might be like, even if you can't remember the exact details.

Once you've written all aspects of the memory, you can write a poem about it. Work in small groups or with a partner. Read your poems to each other and see how they sound.

See me if you're having problems and for homework, check spelling, word meanings, and punctuation.