Tim Rasinski is a renowned professor of literacy education whose research on reading fluency and word study has made him a literacy hero to many. Below, he shares his thoughts on the importance of poetry instruction.
“The world is full of poetry. The air is living with its spirit; and the waves dance to the music of its melodies, and sparkle in its brightness.” – James Gates Percival
For years I have been an advocate for greater use of poetry (and song) in our reading curricula. Still, it is not unusual for me to hear that teachers are told that reading poetry is “fluff” and they should minimize poetry instruction. There are several reasons why this National Poetry Month, and every month, poetry should be at the heart of instruction for all readers, especially younger readers and those who are struggling.
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