Poetry+Activity-Sarah

7th grade
 * Poetry for Unit Plan-"Overcoming Challenges" **



By: C.W. Longenecker If you think you are beaten, you are. If you think you dare not, you don’t If you like to win but think you can’t, It’s almost a cinch you won’t.
 * The Victor **

If you think you’ll lose, you’re lost. For out in the world we find Success begins with a fellow’s will It’s all in the state of mind.

If you think you are outclassed, you are. You’ve got to think high to rise. You’ve got to be sure of yourself before You can ever win the prize.

Life’s battles don’t always go To the stronger or faster man. But sooner or later, the man who wins Is the man who thinks he can.

__ Specific Directions: __ Students will close their eyes and brainstorm a challenge they have ever dealt with. It may be something regarding school, in their family, a struggle on a sports team, or even a difficult time with a broken bone.

Have students think about answers to the following questions: What were you thinking to help you cope with your situation? What does this say about humankind? Do you have any advice for those struggling with a death in the family, dilemma with a friend on the bus, monetary issues at home, or even a bad grade you do not want mom/dad to see? Think about this for 3 minutes and have students open their eyes. Thoughts can be shared!

The poem below above will then be read aloud to the entire class and each student will receive a copy. A short analysis about the poem will take place, and students will be given an opportunity to express the take-away from the poem.

__ Activity: __ Each student will create their very own 5 line, free verse poem. Each person's poem should begin with a title reflecting on one of their biggest challenges they have had to overcome (after they have had adequate time to brainstorm). Also, the poem each person creates will help guide other peers to ways they handled their challenging situation

__ Format: __ Title, “Personal Experience” Lines 1-3, If you think you are, you are --. *(Make this something positive though, rather than negative like Longenecker does at the beginning of his poem.) Lines 4-5, But ---(final thoughts and inspiration).

At the conclusion of the class period, each student will chose their favorite “If you think you are…” line from their creation and we will create a class poem. This will be printed on colorful paper for everyone as a memory, or resource to look back on if one is every in need of a pick-me-up or inspiration during a tough time.

Ms. Merritt’s Example: “Moving Away to College” If you think you are homesick, you’ll see your parents eventually. If you think you made a wrong decision, a pleasant surprise will change your mind. If you think your family isn’t constantly thinking of you, wait for all the phone calls you’ll get. But just when you are having your doubts about wanting to move closer to home, You’ll rise above the down times and remember why you came so far!