National Poetry Month

Shel Silverstein article

Homework Questions
a. What different careers did Shel Silverstein have in his lifetime, and what did he accomplish in each of these careers?
b. The article compares Silverstein to Dr. Seuss, A.A. Milne, and Edward Lear. What did these authors write? In what ways might they be compared to each other in terms of writing style? Why is each author considered a "master of the form" of writing for children?
c. What are some of the subjects of Shel Silverstein’s works (particularly short stories and poems) as described in the article, and why might they appeal to children? What morals does he seem to discuss in his works?
d. Have you ever read any of Shel Silverstein’s poems? What did you like about them? What makes them memorable to you?

Compare and Contrast Your Poem and Silverstein's
--How does the poem you wrote relate to the title?
--What is the meaning of your poem, and how did you attempt to relay that meaning to your reader?
--What does the title of this poem mean in relation to the poem written by Shel Silverstein?
--What is the meaning of the Shel Silverstein poem, and how did he attempt to relay that meaning to the reader?
--What methods did both you and Shel Silverstein use to reach your intended audience of children?

RUBRIC FOR SHEL SILVERSTEIN FINAL PROJECT
Essay: 20 pts
-5 pts: C.U.P.S., Neatly typed, crisp paper, 1 page or less
-5 pts: Concrete examples
-5 pts: Transition words for each "yellow"
-5 pts: Readability, style
Drawing: 10 pts: Connection to your poem; effort and care must be apparent
Your Poem: 15 pts
Silverstein Poem: 5 pts.