POETRY LESSON
Bird Children

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Bird Children
Text Type: Poetry • Word Count: 323

Poem Summary
Short poems about "bird children" (children dressed up as various birds) are fun to read and also introduce some characteristics of these birds. The rhythmic poetry and elaborate illustrations make the book enchanting for children. Approximate book level: Y.

Introduce the Poem
Show children the cover of the book. Quickly flip through the pages to show each illustration. Explain to children that you are going to read a poem. Ask what they think the poem might be about from looking at the illustrations.

Elicit Prior Knowledge
Ask children about some of their favorite poems. Ask if they know what a rhyme is. Have a discussion about rhyme and poetry. Use nursery rhymes and Dr. Seuss books as references. Explain that even song lyrics are a kind of poetry, and that rhythm often plays a large role in poetry.

Next, have a discussion about birds. Ask: Do you ever see birds near your home or at school? What kind of birds do you see? What is your favorite type of bird?

Before Reading
Invite children to ask questions as you read, especially if there is something they do not understand. Tell them to listen to the rhythm of the poem. Have them try to tap to the "beat" as you read aloud.

During the Reading
Be sure to read with expression. Pause occasionally and ask questions of children. Use think-aloud strategies and react to parts of the poem by asking questions or showing an emotional response such as laughter. Exaggerate the rhyming words in the poem.

After the Reading
Reader Response
Ask children what they thought of the poem. Ask them to describe their favorite part.

Ask a volunteer to summarize what the poem was about.

Comprehension
Ask specific questions that allow children to demonstrate their understanding of the poem.
What was the poem about?
According to the book, which bird child “wears a vivid red”?