Students learn better if reading, writing, and math are integrated. Encourages students to collaborate with others. Helps students strengthen concepts in all subject areas. Makes them think outside the box. (Whitin & Piwko, 2008)
“Mathematics speaks to the mind, poetry to the heart".
“We use our mind to do mathematic calculations, we use our heart to express thoughts or feelings through poetry and since our heart and mind are connected to each other, there should be a way to link mathematics and poetry together” (Ly, 2002, p. 1).
Promotes excitement Stimulates motivation Provides enjoyment Basic skills in poetry and geometry Grade level standards
Poetry – variety of typesvarietytypes › Concrete PoemPoem › Shape PoetryPoetry › Poetometry TexasTexas › Poetometry MeMe Geometry – basic skills/shapes › Common shapesshapes › Reflections and Symmetry ReflectionsSymmetry › Shape PeoplePeople
Basic vocabulary for poetry and geometry Elements of poetry Analyze and identify types of poems Examine and identify geometric shapes and forms
Vocabulary in poetry and geometrypoetrygeometry Poetry – analyzing, learning elements, categorizing, collecting samples, writingwriting › Haiku Haiku › Diamante Diamante Geometry – drawing, displaying, constructing, collecting pictures, designing, writing Geometry constructing, designingwriting
Combining knowledge of poetry and geometry Construction and composition activities Variety of experiences including student choices of creative projects integrating content areas
Construction and composition activitiesactivities Poetometry CentersCenters Poetrees Poetree Shape RollRoll Rebus Stories Rebus Shape PoemsPoems 3D Shapes with Poems 3D
Showcasing and sharing products Publishing and presenting work Possible uses of technology components including social networking and online tools
Poetometry T-shirtsT-shirts Poetometry ParadeParade Poetometry Party/Fiesta/Fair Poetometry PowerPoint or BlogPowerPointBlog Poetometry AnthologyAnthology Poetometry Feast – 2D/3D shaped foods
“I would say that connecting the geometry/math and the poetry helped make both topics more real to the students. One of the kids remarked while we were writing the diamante poems that this was a cool way to compare and contrast, much better than a plain old Venn diagram.” (third grade teacher)
“Poetometry is a useful tool that enhances everyday learning through cross-curricular integration. The ideas grew from a seed of knowledge and blossomed into beautiful ideas they created. This program adds an element of texture to teaching.” (fifth grade teacher)
“The students loved all the activities, and it was fun to see them use their creativity in their poems. I learned it is important to allow students to use their creativity and imagination.” (pre-service teacher in third grade)
“Poetometry is a great way for students to understand two difficult subjects. The activities provide a proactive learning environment. Any classroom would love Poetometry!" (pre-service teacher in fourth grade)
Lesson/project plans Teacher resources Website list Copy of this PowerPoint®
Visit the website of the American Academy of Poets for ideas and resources
Whitin, D. & Piwko, M. (2008, March). Mathematics and poetry: The right connection. Young Children, 63, Ly, Kim. (2002, November 25). Mathematics and Poetry. Paper for Math class at Mission College, Santa Clara, CA.
A Kick in the Head: An Eveyday Guide ot Poetic Form. (2005). by P. Janeczko. Cambridge: Candlewick Press. Haiku Hike. (2005). Written and illustrated by 4 th grade students of St. Mary’s Catholic school in Mansfield, MA. NY: Scholastic. Mind-Stretching Math Riddles: Math Appeal. (2003). by Greg Tang. NY: Scholastic. Sir Cumference and the First Round Table by Cindy Neuschwander. (1997). St. Watertown, MA: Charlesbridge. That is Symmetry! (2004) by Karen J. Guralnick. Barrington, IL: Rigby.