Lesson Plan on Symbolism?

Question

Hi. Does anyone out there have any creative ways to teach a lesson on symbolism in poetery? I'm teaching a 7th grade LA class and need a fun supplemntal activity to really hit home how symbolism works. I thought about having them get into groups and then pass out symbols (Star of David, Hearts, Barber Poll) and have them decide what they symbolize...and then have them read "O' Captain my Captain." but I think I need more. Any ideas from folks who have taught this? Thanks in advance. :)

Answer 1

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You could send them home after and tell them to bring in something that has symbolism for the next class. Or before hand you could tell them to bring in something...anything they wanted to and then you could ask them what it symbolized.

Have them choose something that symbolizes them. Take them around the school and show them danger signs, the school team, bathroom, and other places that have symbols that they see every day.

I'm more of a Graphic Design teacher but we talk about making symbols to mean other things and if people will think that the symbol made means what you want it to.

Answer 2

You could use the American Flag ( or any flag) and the statue of liberty and connect the concept of symbolism to their current assigned class book, play, etc.

I have had the students locate and explain the symbolism in their current reading assignments.

"Captain, My Captain is way too advanced for 7th graders. I teach High School juniors and seniors and even they have a problem analyzing Whitman's poetry.

If you plan on using this literary technique in poetry, you might try some Langston Hughes "Dreams" or Poe "Annabelle Lee", etc.

Answer 3

How about symbols that mean something to the them( the students) what is going on in their culture that is symbolic? Or how about the poem "Diving into the wreck" by Adrienne Rich let them read it first and see what they think it means. I bet the true symbolism of the poem will make them take a closer look at other poems. The poem is about breaking away from the myths about women. wonderful, powerful, moving poetry