1. Poetry Comprehension
Poetry can sometimes seem quite complicated. So it is especially important that you learn how to understand it.

2. As with any comprehension test, read it through once, then read the questions. Now skim through the poem again looking for the answers. Carefully re-read these parts. Don’t rely on your memory.
Playground Plea
Eyes shining
Face glowing
Heart racing
Blood pumping
When will they pick me?
Feet shuffling
Smile fading
Hands clenching Mouth drying
Chest tightening
Throat aching
Eyes pleading
Fear growing
Will they pick me?
Shoulders slumping
Hope fading
Face falling
Tears threatening
Why don’t they EVER pick me?
Lynn Huggins-Cooper

3. Write down how the poet builds the tension in this poem
Write down how the poet builds the tension in this poem. Are the patterns she used effective? Do they make us understand how the child is feeling?

4. Clenching Pleading Slumping
What are the meaning of these words. You can use a dictionary for help. Suggest why the poet would choose these words.
Clenching
Pleading
Slumping

5. Why do you think using verbs ending in ‘ing’ at the end of many of the lines was effective in building tension in the poem?
Now you have your own comprehension to complete. Will you follow this advice?