This is a sample poem from Term 5. It is being shared with parent permission.
As part of our Language Arts program, each kindergartener memorizes one poem every six weeks. Poems are selected from the pre-approved lists available at the bottom of this page.
Near the end of each term (typically the 5th week), students will take turns reciting their poem in front of the class. They're welcome to hold pictures/props during their recitation, but this is completely optional in kindergarten.
Why do we recite poems?
Our school philosophy states that the purpose of poetry recitation is to "give each child an opportunity to develop the skill of depending on his or her mind and to provide an opportunity for oral modeling. This program also allows children to commit to memory some of the finest selections of literature available." This practice helps our students develop confidence as well as the skill of speaking in front of an audience.
Which poem should my student recite?
Because each child's ability level is different, a variety of poems are provided for students to memorize. We ask parents to help their student select one poem (from the lists provided) that is appropriate for their skill level but will also help them stretch and improve their memorization skills.
What are some good memorization strategies?
The most effective strategy is to help your student read/say their selected poem every day. Keep an extra copy of the poem at the dinner table, in the car, or by the bedside. By taking a few minutes every day to read it, the poem will slowly become committed to long-term memory.
Thank you for your support and for working with your students at home!
Near the end of each term (typically the 5th week), students will take turns reciting their poem in front of the class. They're welcome to hold pictures/props during their recitation, but this is completely optional in kindergarten.
Why do we recite poems?
Our school philosophy states that the purpose of poetry recitation is to "give each child an opportunity to develop the skill of depending on his or her mind and to provide an opportunity for oral modeling. This program also allows children to commit to memory some of the finest selections of literature available." This practice helps our students develop confidence as well as the skill of speaking in front of an audience.
Which poem should my student recite?
Because each child's ability level is different, a variety of poems are provided for students to memorize. We ask parents to help their student select one poem (from the lists provided) that is appropriate for their skill level but will also help them stretch and improve their memorization skills.
What are some good memorization strategies?
The most effective strategy is to help your student read/say their selected poem every day. Keep an extra copy of the poem at the dinner table, in the car, or by the bedside. By taking a few minutes every day to read it, the poem will slowly become committed to long-term memory.
Thank you for your support and for working with your students at home!