Answer to Question #299549 in English for PHUMZILE ZONDI

Question

 Read the poem below and respond to the questions that follow.  

Letters on the page

Worlds created in my mind

I live many lives.  

2.1 You want to encourage your FAL students to read more and have decided to use the poem above to inform your discussion with them. In about 2 short paragraphs, explain how you would use the poem to guide your lesson with your class. Begin by identifying this type of poem and defining its typical features, then go on to describe how you could use it in your discussion with your students.    (10)  

2.2. Why do you think that this poem would be more effective than an essay on the benefits of reading?      (10)  

Answer 1

2.1

Activate prior knowledge

Establish theme

focus on facts

Explore languages

Set a scene

Inspire writing

See new perspective

Ignite curiosity

Provide pleasure

Capture character

2.2

Improves Verbal Skills and Memory

The immediate benefits of reading poetry are improvements to vocabulary and verbal dexterity. Poetry acquaints the reader with unfamiliar terms and encourages verbal analysis.

Most poems should not be read in the straightforward manner of prose. The reader must place his own emphasis upon keywords and decode syntax without obvious structure. This encourages readers to grapple with language, and presents reading as a creative act in its own right.

The common practice of memorizing poems also improves long-term brain health. Studies have shown that people who memorize and recall poems are less susceptible

Improves Critical Thinking

Poetry improves critical thinking by forcing a reader to think. In great poetry, meaning is not obvious or one-dimensional. Deciphering poetry is an active practice, rather than the passive engagement encouraged with prose.

Readers of poetry are more likely than non-readers to analyze information for bias and viewpoint. This skill benefits students, but also anyone who wants to form their own opinions of news items or gain a better perspective upon documents like contracts.

As the currency of social interaction, language shapes an individual’s experience of the world. The critical thinking skills developed through reading poetry give greater control over language itself.

Develops Empathy and Insight

The most remarkable power of literature is its ability to unite reader and writer across time and cultural boundaries. As condensed literature, poetry offers these benefits in an impactful way. Poetry triggers memories and emotions in its readers. This connection between universal emotions and personal experience encourages the development of empathy.

Encourages Engagement with Other Art Forms

Poetry is an excellent introduction to the arts. Poems typically don't require a lot of time to read, nor are they difficult to find free online.

Once someone feels comfortable with poetry, they are more likely to engage with other arts. The appreciation of any art requires the same critical thinking skills and emotional awareness.