Def Poetry

The video below is an example of "Def Poetry." The poet performing, "Shihan" is  most commonly known from HBO's Def Poetry. For the past 15 years, Shihan has been co-hosting Da' Poetry Lounge, the nation's largest open mic night held in Hollywood, CA. A native of New York’s Lower East Side and a current resident and local legend of Los Angeles, Shihan is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic spoken word artists of our generation.

What is Def Poetry?

"Def poetry is a form of poetry typically based on urban culture and themes, often with an expressed focus on the African American experience. While not defined purely by racial themes or poets, and anyone of any race or cultural background may compose such works, there is certainly a precedent for African American poets in this art form. This type of poetry typically serves to illustrate the experiences and lifestyle of those who grow up in urban environments. Def poetry can take a number of different forms, depending on the poet, though it typically expresses personal opinions and life stories." Source

This week take a look again at the video we viewed in class and react to it. What is your opinion of this example of Def Poetry? Do you like it or dislike it? Why? Give reasons to support your opinion. In your response also be sure to explain one example of a poetic device (metaphor, simile, alliteration, personification etc.) that Shihan uses. 

Your post is due no later than Friday at 5pm and must be at least 8 sentences.

Which Song?

This week you are finishing your post on Kid Blog. Find an image to help represent your song meaning. Create the "multiple choice" question for your classmates that asks them "Which Song?" You must have three choices. Try to interpret at least one other classmate's image/song post and comment on theirs. Be sure to briefly explain your choice.

This is due no later than Friday at 5pm.

http://www.kidblog.org/coolblock

Looking at Lyrics

As we continue to learn about powerful writing I want you to consider what makes a piece of writing so interesting. How will you truly capture your audience's attention? I think it may be helpful if we think about music first. What makes a song so catchy or engaging? 

This week I want you to think about one of your favorite (appropriate) songs. Look up the lyrics. (AZ Lyrics is usually a good site to do so). Examine the lyrics. 

Are they powerful? Are they catchy? Why do you think so? Is there figurative language in it? (Metaphors, Similes, Personification etc...)  What does the song mean?

Write at least 8 sentences that answer some of these questions and ultimately express why this is one of your favorite songs. Your post is due no later than Friday at 5pm. PROOFREAD YOUR WORK!

"The Only Thing to Fear is Fear Itself"

This week we will be starting to read the screenplay,  The Monsters are Due on Maple Street, by Rod Serling. In the play we will discuss just how powerful fear, prejudice and suspicion can be!

For your blog post this week, I would like you to answer the following question:

Think about what you are afraid of. How does fear affect the decisions you make?

Your response must be at least 8 sentences. PROOFREAD! It is due no later than Friday, January, 11 at 5pm!