The Language of Poetry - LanguageArts-NHS

Reading-Writing Connection
Broaden your understanding of the poems by responding to these prompts.
Then use Revision: Grammar and Style to improve your writing.
writing prompts self-check
A. Short Response: Support an Opinion
Which of the three poems expresses the greatest
appreciation of nature? Defend your choice in one or
two paragraphs, using examples from the poems.
B. Extended Response: Interpret Theme
What is the theme or message of each poem that you
read? Drawing on details from the poems, write a
three-to-five-paragraph response.
revision: grammar and style
USE PRECISE LANGUAGE It is important for writers to choose words that
effectively express the rhythm, sound, and imagery they wish to convey to their
audience. Notice how Maxine Kumin’s use of precise verbs in “The Sound of
Night” makes the description livelier and more specific than if she had used
verbs such as “fly” or “communicate.”
and bats, snub seven-pointed kites,
skitter across the lake, swing out,
squeak, chirp, dip, and skim on skates
of air . . . (lines 4–7)
Careful consideration of word choice can be given to all types of writing, not
just poetry. Notice that the revisions in red are precise verbs that enhance the
description in this first draft. Revise your responses to the prompts by changing
any dull, general verbs to more precise ones.
student model
urges
In “There Will Come Soft Rains,” Sara Teasdale asks us to consider that
annihilated
nature will go on long after humans have done away with themselves.
A strong opinion statement
will . . .
• identify one poem as
expressing the most
appreciation of nature
• show how the imagery and
tone of the poem express
this appreciation
An effective response will . . .
• give a clearly stated
interpretation of each poem
• present details that support
the interpretation
writing
tools
For prewriting, revision,
and editing tools, visit
the Writing Center at
ClassZone.com.
. . . soft rains / meeting at night / the sound of night 703