Poetry+Out+Loud!

ENGLISH 9: ORAL INTERPRETATION #2: Poetry Out Loud Part I

 * **Purpose:** To demonstrate the ability to bring a poem to life in front of an audience using oral interpretation skills.
 * **Points:** 40
 * T**ime Limit:** 2-3 minutes.

Despite the fact that some people are a bit daunted by the idea of reading or writing poetry, the truth is that poetry is everywhere, It’s in the way you brush your teeth in the morning to the search for the meaning of our existences. Poetry is written to be heard, so here’s your chance to give your poem an audible voice.
 * Assignment:**

What is the secret to good poetry reading? Will it automatically come to life no matter in what style it is read? Can the reader rely completely on the words to create the meaning? While the reader does not literally act out the poem, she inspires it with vocal and nonverbal expression; it’s the reader’s obligation to bring the message to the listener, using her voice, face, and body.

You will choose a single poem from a selection of several poems ([|Poetry 180] or [|Poetry Out Loud]) to read to your audience. Choose a poem that speaks to you. You will compose an original introduction and include at least one interesting/relevant piece of information that you discover about your poem and/or author. In all, your presentation should take two to three minutes.


 * Requirements:** Though you will have a manuscript, you should be VERY familiar with your poem, so familiar that you will not be tied to poem while presenting to the audience. The introduction must be memorized.


 * Grading:** You will be evaluated on how well your Introduction and poem flow into each other, and how well you bring your poem to life with your voice, face, and body. Voice is critical to success in this assignment!