Prompts for Arguing about Poetry

With poetry, there is rarely one right answer. Try these discussion prompts to get kids thinking about poetry. Be open to a variety of opinions. Encourage them to defend their responses with example poems drawn from their favorite poetry books. Challenge older kids to take BOTH sides of the question in a debate.

The list begins:

1. The best poems rhyme.

2. Serious poetry is more interesting than funny poetry.

3. Poetry is never about underwear.

4. You can’t have just one poem in a poetry book.

5. Some poems mix facts and poetry.

For more details, get your copy of The Poetry Teacher’s Book of Lists.

And if you already have the book and would like to offer additions, corrections, or other input, please do so in the COMMENTS area. Thanks!