Activity
Found Poem
Found Poem
Activity Overview
Students create poetry by selecting and arranging words and phrases from existing text, demonstrating comprehension through creative synthesis.
Grade Levels
Subject Areas
Activity Types
Detailed Example
Analyzing Primary Source Documents (History - 7th Grade)
Materials Needed
- Primary source document
- Highlighters or colored pencils
- Poem template or blank paper
- Sample found poems for modeling
Preparation
Select a primary source with rich language. Create a sample found poem from a different text. Prepare poem templates with line spaces. Gather highlighters.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Introduce found poetry: Poems created using words from existing texts, rearranged into new form.
Show sample: A found poem from the Gettysburg Address, highlighting words used.
Today's source: Letter from a Civil War soldier.
First, read the entire document for understanding.
Second reading: Highlight or underline powerful words, phrases, or sentences that stand out.
Select 15-25 words/phrases from your highlights. These become your poem's raw material.
Arrange your selections into a poem. You may:
Change line breaks
Repeat words for emphasis
Rearrange order
Use ellipses (...) to show gaps
You may NOT add words that aren't in the original.
Write your final found poem, including a title.
Share in small groups. Discuss: What choices did you make and why?
Differentiation Strategies
Pre-highlight potential words for struggling students. Provide poem structure templates. For advanced students, require multiple stanzas with thematic unity.
Assessment Guidelines
Evaluate word selection for significance to theme. Check that poem conveys understanding of source. Assess creative arrangement and line breaks.