Arthur Sze's poem "Crisscross" launches a lesson plan that asks scholars to use their observation skills. They first draw an image that reflects what crisscross means to them. They then examine a photograph of a lightning strike and list what they notice about the photo. Finally, learners read Sze's poem, once again listing what they observe, then draw comparisons among their drawing, the photo, and poem.

Concepts

poetry, poetry analysis, making observations, observational skills, textual evidence, compare and contrast

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Instructional Ideas

• Invite several class members to read aloud the poem
• Project other photos of lightning strikes and ask the class to consider why the one featured in the lesson was chosen

Classroom Considerations

• A link is provided to instructors so they can read more about the noticing approach used in the "Teach This Poem" series

Pros

• The noticing skills approach helps learners develop confidence in their ability to analyze poems
• Includes extension activities for grades seven-eight and for grades nine-12

Cons

• The link to the audio of Sze reading the poem does not work

Common Core

RL.11-12.10a RL.11-12.10b