Here's another different assignment:

Re-read the lecture on poetry, and then re-read Mrs. Westvessel's appraisal of her students' poetry in the excerpt from Anasatsia Krupnik in the Online Children's Literature Anthology.

Obviously, Mrs. Westvessel has some very strong notions of what poetry is and what it isn't, or does she? Keep in mind that we don't really know what Mrs. W. thinks about poetry in general; we do know what she expects of her particular assignment, though. Write a respone to her. In your response talk about what children's poetry is/isn't, and back up your example by sharing some example of children's poetry that you find patricularly effective, engaging, entertaining, poetic.

Be sure to include some actual poetry (copy out a poem or two) to include in your message. Select poems that effectively illustrate whatever qualities you are championing in your message to Mrs. W.

Be sure you are not just selecting poems from our lecture, or you are actually demonstrating you don't really read poetry (and that weakens your position, no? :)

Look at the pinkish sidebar on the right...

If this discussion includes a conversation about grading, creativity, the value of particular assignments in a curriculum, teaching, well, that's to be expected, but try to keep much of the focus on poetry.

You'll note that this assingment requires you to write a message to Mrs. Westvessal directly. Put it on the message board as you would normally post your discussion question answer. Be sure that you address it to Mrs. Westvessal. You will respond as usual (to at least two items) with examples, not jsut opinions.