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Poke in the i, A :  a collections of concrete poems, selection by Paul B. Janeczko and Chris Raschka, ill.  Cambridge, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press, 2007.

ISBN:  978073623760

Illustrator:  Chris Raschka

Media:  Mixed media

4Q/4P

Curricular connection:  Poetry. Poetry can be used at any grade as a writing exercise in self-expression.  Visual representation can be used as a curricular connection to incorporate art into the lesson plan.  Books that can be used to teach visual poetry include: Blue Lipstick Concrete Poems, A River of Words, Walt Whitman:  Words for America, Wabi Sabi, Poke in the I and Popcorn.

Reading level:  5^th grade

Repetition is defined by Dictionary.com as the act of repeating; repeated action, performance, production or presentation.  The concrete poem by John Agard titled Skipping Rope Spell uses repetition in words to create rhythm. 

Turn rope turn,

Don’t trip my feet,

Turn rope turn,

For my skipping feet.

Annotation: Playful arrangement of words and imaginative imagery are some features that define a concrete poem.  Paul Janesczko and Chris Raschka work together with other poets to bring a jazzy book for children and teachers interested in poetry, art and self-expression.

KRF 6/22/09