the techniques of teaching poetry : the teaching of poetry is different from that of prose. This is because in poetry,

language is as important as content. In addition, the poem contains figurative language and imagination. Therefore, the teaching of poetry needs to be lively and stimulating. So , the proper teaching of a poem should include the following steps:

1. The teacher should warm up or motivate the students ,here , he can introduce part of the theme of the poem. He can also use some parallel situation from a film or a T.V. programmer as an introduction. The introduction should be as brief as possible . The teacher need not talk about the life of the poet or background behind the production of the poem. He should not use the sentences like “ I m going to teach you a poem ….” on the contrary , he should better use statements like “ we are going to discuss a poem”

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HOW TO READ A POEM :

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2. Teaching a poem is loud reading. After introducing the poem briefly , the teacher should read the poem loudly . The students should not be allowed to keep the text open. While reading the poem, emphasis should be given on rhythm and music of the poem. The teacher should be a good and perfect reader. Even a recording of the poem ,if available can be used . An effective can make the poem enjoyable .

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3.Third step in teaching the poem is getting feedback ,to confirm that students have received the initial impression of the poem . A few general question should be asked. The questions should involve just the activity of reacting to the poem as a whole. Here, only the theme and tone of the poem are expected to be made clear.

4. The succeeding step of teaching a poem is the second loud reading . The teacher should read the poem again. Now the students should be allowed to see the text. At this stage , some explanation of the poem and meanings of the some difficult words with context can be given. In addition, the teacher can discuss the use of key words, important structures, images and other figurative features of the poem.

5. Finally , after the important explanations, students may be asked to read the poem loudly. Then for appreciation of the poem

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What happens in this poem? What is this poem about? Who is speaking in this poem? How does that person feel? What is the subject matter and

theme of the poem? What is the beginning, middle and

end of the poem? What is the mood of the poem?

Questions to ask of a poem