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Grace Grafton’s poetry program at Lakeshore has been in place
since 1984-85. The program consists of poetry workshop sessions in all
classes except kindergarten. Workshop content includes poetry appreciation,
discussion or hands-on activity, writing, and sharing of original writing
by students. Instruction is given in the elements of poetry writing,
such as imaginative thought, figures or speech, observation and description,
rhythm, repetition, sound, and point of view.
The writing is stimulated by presentation and discussion of subject
matter as varied as: things we wonder about, our cultural heritage,
nature walks, music and art and hearing/reciting/discussing poetry from
many cultures and times, including poems by Grace. Guest artists are
also invited to present lessons with Grace. A “subject”
and “form” for student poems are suggested during each workshop;
however, students have the option of writing from their own personal
inspiration if they wish.
To close the set of sessions, folders are decorated, they review the
many poems students have composed, and they choose their favorites.
Folders are collected by Grace, who then selects which poems are printed
in the student anthology and returns the folders to the students. Each
student receives a copy of the anthology to bring home with his/her
folder. Student readings are presented at various times at school and
at public venues.
Historically, the poetry program at Lakeshore has been funded in part
by the PTA, San Francisco Education Fund, and California Council for
the Humanities, CA Poets In The Schools, and CA Arts Council among others.
A word to the wise: since your resident poet is supported by public
funds, a letter of appreciation and support for arts funding sent to
your state and federal congressional representatives and the Governor,
would encourage future funding.
THANK YOU.
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