Home
Mission
Blog
Professional Development
Launchpad
Plans
Community
Help
First-Day Lesson Plan for American Literature: Poems about "America"
By Rigorous Resources for High School English
This lesson was designed to be used on the first day of a year-long 11th-grade American Literature course. The lesson includes a poetry packet with 7 poems by diverse American authors. Each of the poems raises important questions about what "America" represents. A land of freedom and equality? A refuge for immigrants? A diverse and inclusive nation? Or a land with entrenched inequality? A saber-rattling evil empire?
Here is a list of the poems:
1. Ada Limón, "A New National Anthem" (2018) — our new Poet Laureate!
2. Emma Lazarus, "The New Colossus" (1883)
3. Walt Whitman, "I Hear America Singing" (1860)
4. Langston Hughes, "I, Too" (1923) — responding directly to Whitman!
5. Claude McKay, "America" (1921)
6. James Lasdun, "The Question" (2012) — is America "good or bad"?
7. Tony Hoagland, "America" (2003)
This resource also comes with a classwork packet that features discussion questions on the poems by Ada Limôn, Emma Lazarus, and Langston Hughes. The discussion questions come on three handouts, each of which contains 7 questions about a particular poem. Each handout also has a quick write where students can answer one of the questions in writing.
How might the concept of "America" represent a set of ideals and promises? Has this nation lived up to its ideals and promises? How might the idea of America be different from the reality?
Thank you for choosing Rigorous Resources!
Happy teaching!
Adam Jernigan, Ph.D.
P.S. Don't forget to click “follow” for email updates on new products by Rigorous Resources. New products will be 50% OFF for the first 24 hours!
Rigorous Resources is your one-stop shop for resources on American literature. Every unit was designed by a Ph.D. with a research specialization in American literature. Feel free to check out these complete units on canonical texts by diverse American authors:
Complete Unit on Tommy Orange's There There
Complete Unit on Arthur Miller's The Crucible
Complete Unit on Frederick Douglass's Narrative
Complete Unit on F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby
Complete Unit on Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God
Complete Unit on Nella Larsen's Passing
Complete Unit on J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye
Complete Unit on Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun
Complete Unit on Toni Morrison's The Bluest Eye
Complete Unit on Gene Luen Yang's American Born Chinese
4th Grade Poetry Reading Comprehension Passages & Questions With Answers
By The Teaching Resources Company
Our Poetry Reading Comprehension Passages & Questions solve the problem of making poetry accessible and engaging for students. Featuring beloved poems like Mr. Nobody, The Spider and the Fly, and Hickory-Dickory-Dock, this resource helps students improve their comprehension while enjoying classic verses. Thoughtfully crafted questions enhance critical thinking and understanding, perfect for classroom or home learning!
What is included :
- Passages & Questions
- Comprehension question
- Review
- Answers key
Be the first to know about new products, freebies and discounts from The Teaching Ressources Company.
⭐️ Click HERE to follow my store and never miss Sale !
Copyright © the teaching ressources company
All rights reserved by author.
*** THANK YOU FOR VISITING ***
Free product: PEACE poetry template for International Peace Day
By Caramel Bear Classroom
International Peace Day on September 21st is an important day. By celebrating, we can bring student awareness of the diversity of our world. Teachers can use International Peace Day as a meaningful lesson in their classrooms. It is an opportunity for students to learn about the importance of peace and how they can contribute to a better world.
* This free product includes an acrostic poem template.
Generate some ideas with your class on how we can promote peace!
Emily Dickinson National Poetry Month Reading Comprehension Passage & Questions
By Lia
Poetry Month Biography: Emily Dickinson Reading Comprehension & Questions
Embark on a fascinating journey into the mysterious world of Emily Dickinson with this reading passage! In this resource, students will uncover the life, poetry, and enduring influence of Dickinson, a talented poet whose works continue to captivate readers with their depth and beauty.
What's Included:
There are so many ways to use this resource:
This reading is perfect for students in 2nd to 4th grade.
♥♥♥ Follow me to be the first to hear about FREEBIES and updates ♥♥♥
♥♥♥ Earn TeachShare Credits when you leave feedback ♥♥♥
You may also contact me on createdwithlove023@gmail.com
Robert Frost National Poetry Month Reading Comprehension Passage & Questions
By Lia
Poetry Month Biography: Robert Frost Reading Comprehension & Questions
Introduce your students to the enchanting world of Robert Frost with this engaging reading passage! In this resource, students will embark on a journey through the life and poetry of Robert Frost, one of America's most beloved poets known for his captivating portrayals of nature and the human experience.
What's Included:
There are so many ways to use this resource:
This activity is perfect for students in 2nd to 4th grade.
♥♥♥ Follow me to be the first to hear about FREEBIES and updates ♥♥♥
♥♥♥ Earn TeachShare Credits when you leave feedback ♥♥♥
You may also contact me on createdwithlove023@gmail.c
Langston Hughes National Poetry Month Reading Comprehension Passage & Questions
By Lia
Poetry Month Biography: Langston Hughes Reading Comprehension & Questions
Introduce your students to the captivating world of Langston Hughes with this engaging reading passage! In this resource, students will discover the life and legacy of Langston Hughes, a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance and a pioneer of African American literature.
What's Included:
There are so many ways to use this resource:
This activity is perfect for students in 2nd to 4th grade.
♥♥♥ Follow me to be the first to hear about FREEBIES and updates ♥♥♥
♥♥♥ Earn TeachShare Credits when you leave feedback ♥♥♥
You may also contact me on createdwithlove023@gmail.com
Frankenstein Makes a Sandwich Halloween Read Aloud Poetry Writing Comprehension
By April S Bash
Literacy Book Companion Unit with Comprehension & Fun Activities, based on the book Frankenstein Makes A Sandwich , by Adam Rex. (Book not included.)
This 40-page packet provides a variety of levels to reach each individual student. Please see preview pages and descriptions below . Worksheets include lined paper for easy handwriting practice:
40 Pages Total Include:
1. TABLE OF CONTENTS
2. 16 Comprehension short-answer & creative writing questions
3. continued
4. continued
5. * * * answer sheets
6. * * * continued
7. Key Questions : Who, What, When, Where, How, Why (With Graphics) (NEW 2023)
8. Story Elements : Who, What, When, Where, Main Idea, Problem Solving
9. Reflection : Connection, Text-to-Self, Steps You Would Give to Make a Sandwich
10. Read & Respond : Main Idea, Supporting Details, Author’s Purpose, My New Vocabulary (NEW 2023)
11. 20-Word Search page
12. 10 Word Scramble page
13. Spelling Words : 10 words plus 1 Bonus, from the book, on lined paper
14. * * * Spelling Test : blank, lined paper
15. ABC Order : 20 words from the book
16. * * * ABC Order Answer Sheet
17. Syllables : Divide the 20 words into syllables (NEW 2023)
18. * * * Syllables : Answer Sheet
19. Story Map: Setting, Characters, Problem, Solution
20. Step By Step : First, Next, Then, Last (NEW 2023)
21. Step By Step : First, Next, Then, Last : with shaped-illustrated writing areas
22. Title Page: Author, Illustrator, add your own illustration
23. Design & Detail illustrating page : ….
24. Opinion Journal: What did you think? What would you change?
25. Book Report : Who is the author? Fiction or Non Fiction? Characters? Favorite part? Rate this book!
26. Senses : Feels, Smells, Looks, Tastes & Sounds Like (NEW 2023)
27. Compare & Contrast Venn Diagram: Frank Vs Drac
28. Writing Prompt : with ghost-shaped lined paper : A Monster Poem
29. Rhyme Time :15 words from the book, to match up to 15 rhyming words
30. Contractions : 9 contractions to combine, or separate
31. Acrostic Poem : MONSTER
32. Word Maker : How Many Words Can You Make From CREATURES (NEW 2023)
33. * * * Word Maker Answer Sheet
34. Math : 12 simple multiplication problems
35. * * * Math : answer sheet
36. Follow the instructions : coloring, multiplication/division using photos (NEW 2023)
37. Follow the instructions : counting pictures , left/right
38. Follow the instructions : First/Second/Third/Fourth ; Counting photos graph (NEW 2023)
39. Label a Witch : 8 labels with fill-in-the-blank & word box included. (NEW 2023)
40. Lebel That Photo : Label 15 photos with cut & paste words (NEW 2023)
** See my Fall / Halloween Book Companion Activity packets here :
Teaching Inclusion Halloween Packets
* Be sure to visit my store for many comprehension packets, and other activity worksheets! My packets strive for inclusion of all students. I provide lined paper, a choice of comprehension, simple activities, and answer sheets. I also take requests!
https://www.TeachShare.com/Store/Teaching-Inclusion
This purchase is for the use of one teacher. It is not intended to be shared. Please use the 'additional license' purchase if more than one teacher will be using it. Thank you!
Copyright © 2023 Teaching Inclusion
All rights reserved by author.
Permission to copy for single classroom use only.
Electronic distribution limited to single classroom use only.
Leave feedback to earn credits for future purchases!
Follow my page to get updates!
*** A big HUGE thank you to https://www.TeachShare.com/Store/Empty-Jar-Illustrations for some extra clip art illustrations!! Check out their page for many fabulous clipart sets!
A Bad Kitty Christmas Reading Word Search Spelling Activities 9 Page Fun Packet
By April S Bash
A Bad Kitty Christmas Spelling Activities, 9 Page NO PREP Packet
* All pages using Lined Paper for easy handwriting practice:
9 Pages Total Include:
1. Word Search page (20 words)
2. Word Scramble page (10 words)
3. Spelling Words : 10 words plus 1 Bonus, from the book, on lined paper
4. * * * Spelling Test : blank, lined paper
5. ABC Order : 20 words from the book
6. * * * ABC Order : Answer sheet
7. Syllables : Divide the 20 words into syllables
8. * * * Syllables : Answer Sheet
9. Rhyme Time :15 homophone words from the book, to match up to 15 rhyming words
*******************
Or see my full 55-page BOOK COMPANION in my store!
A Bad Kitty Christmas Read Aloud Book Study Companion Reading Comprehension
** See my other Christmas Packets in my store here: Teaching Inclusion Christmas Packets
** Be sure to visit my store for many comprehension packets, and other activity worksheets! My packets strive for inclusion of all students. I provide lined paper, a choice of comprehension, simple activities, and answer sheets. I also take requests!
https://www.TeachShare.com/Store/Teaching-Inclusion
This purchase is for the use of one teacher. It is not intended to be shared. Please use the 'additional license' purchase if more than one teacher will be using it. Thank you!
Copyright © 2022 Teaching Inclusion
All rights reserved by author.
Permission to copy for single classroom use only.
Electronic distribution limited to single classroom use only.
Leave feedback to earn credits for future purchases! Follow my page to get updates!
Halloween Poetry & Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Halloween Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Halloween Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Election Poetry & Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Election Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Election Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Back to School Poetry & Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Back to School Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders
Ignite your students' creativity and excitement for the new school year with our Back to School Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders! This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way. Perfect for classroom or home use, these prompts provide a valuable tool for starting the school year with enthusiasm and creativity.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Back to School Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Farm Themed Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Farm Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade | Engaging Middle School and Junior High Writing Activities
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Farm Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Beach/Ocean Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Beach/Ocean Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade | Engaging Middle School and Junior High Writing Activities
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Beach/Ocean Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Cooking/Baking Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Cooking/Baking Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade | Engaging Middle School and Junior High Writing Activities
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Cooking/Baking Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Seasons Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Seasons Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade | Engaging Middle School Writing Activities
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Seasons Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Space Themed Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Space Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade | Engaging Middle School and Junior High Writing Activities
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Space Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Zoo Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Zoo Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade | Engaging Middle School and Junior High Writing Activities
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Zoo Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Asian American History Month Poetry & Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Asian American History Month Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Asian American History Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Around the World Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Around the World Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade | Engaging Middle School and Junior High Writing Activities
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Around the World Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.
Weather Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Graders
By Pearlie Janes Creations
Weather Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th-9th Grade | Engaging Middle School and Junior High Writing Activities
This collection of engaging writing prompts is designed to help students express themselves, explore new ideas, and develop their writing skills in a fun and inspiring way.
What’s Inside?
Educational Benefits
Perfect for Various Settings
This versatile resource is ideal for:
Why Choose These Prompts?
Our Weather Poetry and Creative Writing Prompts for 7th, 8th, and 9th Graders offer a comprehensive and engaging approach to developing writing skills. The themed prompts not only make writing enjoyable but also help students connect their personal experiences with their creative expression. With a variety of prompts and no prep needed, this resource is a convenient and valuable addition to any writing program.