Scholars of all ages examine Richard Blanco's poem, "El Florida Room." Looking closely at pictures, pupils look for details that stand out to them, then read the poem. A whole-class discussion allows learners to reflect on what they heard and observed. Poets draft a poem about their favorite room in their home with an accompanying picture.

Concepts

hispanic culture, poetry analysis, poetry, reading poetry, reading, reading comprehension, culture, latino culture, descriptive writing

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Instructional Ideas

• Combine the lesson with one that covers descriptive language
• Give participants the choice of drawing a picture of their favorite room or bringing in an actual photograph
• Spotlight the poem during Hispanic Heritage Month—September 15-October 15

Classroom Considerations

• Some activities in the lesson will need modifying to meet the needs of your learners, particularly in the younger grades

Pros

• Thoughtful discussion boosts speaking and listening skills
• Pictures alongside the poem put readers into the room

Cons

• None

Common Core

CCRA.R.7 CCRA.SL.2