Poetry: A Pathway for Young Students to Find their Voices

Abstract

Vocabulary is a critical component impacting reading comprehension. Vocabulary knowledge depends on an understanding of multiple meanings of words across varied texts and contexts. Poetry provides a rich text source for readers to engage with vocabulary as words used in poems are chosen to paint pictures in readers’ minds. Twenty-five third grade students read poetry daily using a prescribed routine and were provided with instruction on poetic use of language. The result of this 6 month process resulted in students’ increased understanding and use of vocabulary, improved oral reading fluency, and increased motivation and participation in class conversations.