Poetry Friday round-up with Tabatha at The Opposite of Indifference
This week my students and I wrote about our one little word choices. I encouraged them to select an image and create a Canva. I’ll write more about this process on DigiLit Sunday this weekend. Please consider joining the round-up. This week we are sharing about OLW in the classroom.
My newest student, a gifted first grader, wrote this profound poem about the idea of selecting a OLW.
A word is like a leaf,
So fragile,
Everyone chooses a word,
At the beginning of the year,
Little do they know,
Their word is a leaf.
–Lynzee, 1st grade
This student selected the word “Astonish” which is quite a big word for her age, but she wrote a personal acrostic that helped me understand her choice.
My OLW is Present. My student Vannisa helped me write this poem as I was showing how Canva works.
By Margaret Simon (with help from Vannisa)
Astonish! The acrostics brings the words to life. I’m excited to see what will happen next week with my kiddos and their OLWs,
Now that is the perfect word for you, Margaret – and I’m prepared to be astonished by what you can do this year!
Love them all, Margaret, but for some reason, that “please stay” seems important in the definition of your OLW. I can imagine some eyes moving when one is talking, & I want to say “please stay”.
Margaret, as I read your acrostic, I notice that if you are truly present you can become immersed in the moment and linger in it before moving on. I would like to have a one word section of the next gallery. May I please showcase Lynzee and your acrostics (with mentioning Vannisa also)?
Super idea, Margaret. I think you hit the nail on the head with your acrostic — noticing is such a vital part of being present.
“Please stay / Right here…” What a great start to “PRESENT.” The photo you picked is perfect too.
Fun project! Our words are up on Kidblog — this week we’ll spend some time exploring yours!
We commented on Julie Johnson’s class last week. I’ll send them to yours this week. Do you have a post to link up?
Lovely posters, Margaret, and OLWs and everything…but what I really love is the “mistake” your student made in asking to WATCH Crenshaw!
We are coming to the end of watching “The Real Thief” in 2nd grade and we’re doiing “Toys Go Out” next. I love making it watchable for my kids. : )
Your perfect OLW and acrostic remind me to be mindful, to stay right here when my mind wants to race ahead. Thank you!
I’m astonished at Lynzee’s poetic precociousness! I hope your OLW offers you peace and balance this year, Margaret. it’s an important one that we all should heed.