Arthur Sze's poem, "The Shapes of Leaves," encourages young scholars to notice and speak for others who "do not speak." The lesson begins with pupils writing about a tree that they really like. The class then examines an image of clear-cutting and record how the image makes them feel. After a close reading of Sze's poem, the whole class discussion focuses on what it means to "be on the edge of a new leaf."

Concepts

ecology, poetry, poets, poetry analysis, deforestation, close reading, critical thinking, similes

Show More Show Less

Instructional Ideas

• The teacher resource listed in the Included Materials section below provides instructors with details of the pedagogy behind the noticing approach used in the "Teach This Poem" series
• Use during April's Poetry Month
• Have the class brainstorm all the ways emotions are like leaves
• Begin the lesson by showing a time-lapse video of tress leafing in the spring

Classroom Considerations

• Part of the Academy of American Poets "Teach This Poem" series
• Younger learners may need additional scaffolding to make the connections between the speaker's anger and clearcutting

Pros

• The plan includes step-by-step directions, discussion questions, and a link to another lesson for Sze's poem designed for Nation Poetry Month

Cons

• None