"Poetry is not an academic exercise limited to the dusty realms of English curriculums and the closed journals of reclusive introverts. In the richness of its power, poetry is communication at its most eloquent. Poetry is language capable of connecting the intellect’s complex ideas, the spirit’s archetypal metaphors, the human heart’s depths, and life’s universal and individual experiences. It is important that an understanding of poetry’s eloquence and power be reflected in a global exploration of meaning, communication, and media. It is important in penetrating communication’s possibilities to perceive how poetry’s reach exists within what is commonly categorized as prose. "
- Florence McGinn, from the essay "Poetry an Information Age Tool"

Analyzing Poetry
This activity walks the student through the identification and analyses of literary techniques used in professional poetry.

Thematic Poetry
These guidelines are great for finding class materials or independent exploration. Sources of exemplary poetry are identified and organized around specific archetypal themes.

Independent Reading Sheet
This template allows readers to keep track of the poems they have read and share them with their peers. An outstanding classroom resource can be created by collecting the Independent Reading Sheets from many readers and archiving them for later reference.

Independent Reading Sheet Model
This student model demonstrates the use of the Independent Reading Sheet.