POETRY LESSON
Trick or Treat! A Halloween Rhyme

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Trick or Treat! A Halloween Rhyme
Text Type: Poetry • Word Count: 156

Poem Summary
This poem will remind children of -- and prepare them for -- the sweet-filled excitement of Halloween. Whimsical illustrations enrich the entertaining text. Approximate book level: U.

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 reference. Explain that even songs are poetry of a sort, and that rhythm often plays a huge role in poetry.

Next, have a discussion about Halloween. Ask: What activities do you do on Halloween? Do you go trick-or-treating in your neighborhood?

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, showing an emotional response such as laughter.

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?
What was the narrator worried about at the end of the poem?
Ask questions that allow children to demonstrate their understanding of the poem.