SOUND POEM

Did you know that different countries describe the sounds that animals make differently. For example, here in the U.S. we describe the sound a rooster makes as "cock-a-doodle-do." However, some Europeans describe the sound as "coo-coo-ri-coo."

Here are two sound poems written by Bruce Lansky

Drip Drop

Drip drop, drip drop,

darned rain won't stop.

Dropping on my windowpane,

it is driving me insane.

 

Choo Choo

Chuga-chuga, chuga-chuga, chuga-chuga, chuga-chuga, chug.

Choo Choo!

When I hear a choo choo train I think of all the many things that I

should do.

 

 Describe a sound you hear every day--the sound of the wind, the rain, the dishwasher, a train ("choo choo" is one way to describe the sound)--and then write a poem incorporating the sound.

Your poem should describe the sounds and also where the sounds "take" you. Think about:

--What does the sound call to mind?

--How do they feel when they hear the sound?

--What does the sound seem to be "saying"?

 

Create a rhythm and rhyme pattern for your poem.

  1. Revise the lines until they look, feel, and sound right to you. Draft, revise, and edit.
  2. Now, for the real test, read it ALOUD. Does it really paint a clear picture?
  3. Share your poem with someone else. Listen to his or her critique of your poem. A critique is when someone tells you the strengths and weaknesses of your work. DON'T GET MAD, LISTEN to the suggestions. Revise your work. Remember, the BEST writers are REWRITERS!
  4. Give your poem a title.
  5. Type and choose a font that adds to the look of your poem.
  6. Illustrate your poem.

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