Lip-Read Love Poem for Brother

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: Torn

Step 1

Ask your students, “Has there been a time where you found yourself emotionally torn between what you wanted and what was “best”? Why did you feel torn if you objectively knew the “best” or “right” option was not what your heart wanted?” Briefly discuss.

Step 2

Read “Lip-Read Love Poem for Brother” by Andy Butter. When you’re done, briefly discuss the complex emotions of the speaker? What does he find himself torn between?

Step 3

Say, “Think about a time in which you were pulled in two different directions: between what your heart desired and what was objectively right? Simply try to come up with as many descriptors as you can to express your emotions.” Give your students a few minutes to brainstorm.

Step 4

Ask your students to compose a poem similar in sentiment to “Lip-Read Love Poem for Brother” in which they describe a moment where they were stuck between their emotional wants and the objectively “right” alternative.

Step 5

When the students are done, have them share their responses with one another.

The full presentation may be found HERE.

Analytical Lesson

Area of Focus: Various

Step 1

This lesson allows students to analyze various concepts and skills, so it is recommended that you have covered several of the “standalone” lessons before assigning this one.

Step 2

Start by asking your students about the fundamental components of a “strong story.” What are they? What makes them fundamental?

Step 3

Now watch the following video about narrative structure & storytelling.

Step 4

Read “Lip-Read Love Poem for Brother” by Andy Butter to your students. As you are reading, pay particular attention to the “story” of the poem and how it can align with the “3 Act Story Structure.”

Step 5

Ask your students to open the following document and go over the instructions with them. In this assignment, your students are going to analyze the poem in three parts: the beginning, middle, and end and discuss how each of the three “acts” function in the story. When you’ve gone over the instructions, give your students time to work.

Step 6

When your students are done, have a few of them share their responses. How did each “part” of the poem resemble a different act of the 3 act story structure? Briefly discuss.