LESSON 9: Calligram, Grades 5-6

*This lesson can also be done with 7-8 if you have a group of students who really enjoy creative writing tasks.

Lesson Objectives:

• To select 1 individual from the documentary Migrant Lives in Pandemic Times as a focus for a calligram poem
• To create strong imagery through sensory details, emotion and feeling words and other literary devices

Grade 5 Language

• W1.2 generate ideas about a potential topic and identify those most appropriate for the purpose
• W1.4 sort and classify ideas and information for their writing in a variety of ways
• W2.2 establish an appropriate voice in their writing, with a focus on modifying language and tone to suit different circumstances or audiences
• W2.3 use some vivid and/or figurative language and innovative expressions to add interest

Grade 6 Language

• W1.2 generate ideas about a potential topic and identify those most appropriate for the purpose
• W1.4 sort and classify information for their writing in a variety of ways that allow them to view information from different perspectives and make connections between ideas
• W2.2 establish a distinctive voice in their writing appropriate to the subject and audience
• W2.3 use some vivid and/or figurative language and innovative expressions to enhance interest