Next-generation lessons for today's student writers

These 20 high-energy projectable lessons for grades 4-8 harness the brevity and potency of poetry for teaching the intricate skills behind writing well in any subject. The 100 poems-set against vivid full-color photographs and graphics on more than 500 slides-serve as a springboard for activities in which students read, discuss, and write to meet the literacy objectives of the Common Core:

Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and meanings

Interpret words and phrases

Analyze the structure of texts

Produce clear and coherent writing

Present information, findings, and supporting evidence