Module One - Introducing Poetry - Hopkins Collection

Bibliographic Citation
Hopkins, Lee Bennett. 2003. Alphathoughts. Ill. by Marla Baggetta. Honesdale, PA: Boyds Mill Press. ISBN1563979799

Review
Hopkins masterfully uses a mix of short verse-like poems to describe each letter of the alphabet. Although the verses are very short, many pack a heavy load of meaning such as "Nachos" (A crunch of culture within one nibble). The tone used in many selections throughout the book will find readers having an emotional connection to specific letters, especially those involving friends, reunions, and teachers. The vibrant colors in the illustrations by Baggetta complement the selections.


Poem Title

P
“Pencils”
Magical
implements
waiting
for
stories
poems…
to
pop out
from
head
to
lead

Introduction or Follow-up Activity
I would read the entire “Alphathoughts” book to my students; however I would choose to focus on the poem for the letter P entitled, “Pencils.” I like the personification used by Hopkins as he compares pencils to writers with stories and poems popping out of their heads waiting to be written down using the lead from the pencils. I think this poem would be a great ice breaker to use with a class. After reading the book, return to this poem, pass out pencils to each student and ask them what their pencil is waiting to write. If working with beginning poetry writers, perhaps use some poetry starters and introduce students to poetry websites that can help them with rhyming words.