Using Spoken Word Poetry for Justice
Here's one creative way to engage youth voice to take voluntary action for the common good -- teach them to use spoken word for the causes they care about. This mini-course provides background, examples, and tips for teaching spoken word poetry. Designed for facilitators, this mini-course is also accessible to youth.
After completing this course (about 45 minutes), the learner is prompted to take a four-question quiz based on the content. Upon successful completion of this quiz, the learner may request a certificate suitable for a professional development portfolio, or as proof of .75 educational clock hours that can be used toward continuing education credit in most states. Please contact your State Department of Education or school district for specific information. Documentation of the completed courses and copies of the certificate are stored under "My Account" of the Learning to Give website where the learner may access (and print) them at any time.
The learner will
- view a variety of spoken word examples
- investigate what they care about
- develop an advocacy plan through effective communication techniques
This section will give a general overview of the background of spoken-word poetry. This is important to understand the origin, the influences and the characteristics of the art form.
View three examples of young people using spoken word as a means for justice and understanding. Listen for the message and method and consider how you can use these as an introduction to spoken word poetry and a literacy lesson.
Some people may not recognize poetry as a relevant art form for young people. Educate them by introducing them to spoken word poetry. The writing and strategies here can serve as an inspiration to encourage participants to embrace their creativity.
Now that youth have gone through exercises and written spoken word poetry, it is time to host a spoken word poetry performance. Below you will find helpful tips and suggestions for a spoken word performance
This quiz has four questions based on the mini-course "Using Spoken Word Poetry for Justice." If you answer 75 percent correctly, you will have the opportunity to download a personalized certificate. You may revisit the course and retake the quiz, if desired. There is an additional open-ended...