For my Storytelling class today we experimented with using Spoken Word Poetry to inspire students’ creativity and as a fun way to tell some stories…

Sarah Kay set the scene:

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0snNB1yS3IE&list=PLDFBC4DBF7976778A&index=2&feature=plpp_video[/youtube]

Then I asked students:

1. Write down ten things you know to be true

2. Share and see what you learn from others’ lists (optional)

3. Go outside and write a poem

4. Practice with a friend

5. Share with the class

Result:

Raving success! Using poetry every student shared a story about themselves, their views of the world, experiences of life, childhood, dreams… a VERY inspiring 75 minutes!!!

It’s well worth checking out some others’ poetry from Sarah Kay’s playlist:

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDFBC4DBF7976778A

More info on spoken word poetry and Sarah Kay:

http://www.project-voice.net/faq/

http://www.spokenwordnewyork.com/