Lesson 3

1. Word Choice Narrative Poem Lesson 3

2. Poets use colorful, precise language to help readers form vivid pictures in their minds. • By carefully choosing words, poets help readers imagine what people, places, events, and experiences are like.

3. Read passage • Notice how the author describes the block party with vivid, specific words. • Well-chosen words help convey the energy and excitement of the party.

4. Find other examples of descriptive, colorful words. grabbing hold of my feet hip-swinging, head-bobbing, foot-stomping, fancy-dancing crowded street hot,hot dance beat

5. Read passage • The passage is one student’s effort to write a narrative poem.

6. Identify examples of careful, effective word choices. Describe what the choice of words helps you picture. Discuss how the specific, descriptive words are more effective than general, non- specific words would be. two little eyes gleaming black fur, big white stripe, pointy nose crickets chirping, critters creeping, scritch-scratching, foolishly called

7. Your narrative poem should tell a story about something you have experienced. • Choose an experience that was memorable in some way, such as taking a big trip, doing something for the first time, or succeeding at an important task. • List vivid words to help readers imagine your experience. • Use chart like one below to help you plan your narrative poem.

8. Steps to follow to draft your poem.

9. Peer Conference Checklist • Discuss poem with partner • Does the poem tell a story? • Is the topic introduced at the beginning? • Are events organized in sequence? • Has the writer carefully chosen his or her words? • Did the writer include his/her feelings about the experience?

10. The End!!!