Imitation Writing and Poetry

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The "Imitation Writing and Poetry" project engaged children and counselors in a group reading and writing project. Using the structure of Shel Silverstein's "Hug o' War" allowed us to share a basic structure while developing our own unique poems. The children were 2nd-3rd graders.

Recommended Time: 

1 hour

Activity Steps: 
    • Group read the poem "Hug o' War" together.
    • Counselors led second read-aloud, pausing midway through each line while the children continued.
    • Each participant (children and counselors alike) was given a handout with the basic structure of the poem.
    • Each participant was encouraged to finish each line with original content.
    • Each participant read his/her poem to the whole group.
    • We then brainstormed original poem ideas, wrote them and presented them to the group.

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CENTER: Calvary Bilingual Multicultural Learning Center
LOCATION: Washington, DC (Columbia Heights)