Ode to the Chronically Ill Body

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: My Body

Step 1

Have the students brainstorm and develop a list of times where they felt they didn’t have complete control of their bodies or faculties. For example, they may write about a panic attack, or a disability they have, or that one time they had a fainting spell, etc.

Step 2

Watch Camisha Jones’ “Ode to the Chronically Ill Body.” Then discuss the ways that she feels like her body controls her, not the other way around.

Step 3

Show them the formatting of the poem and discuss. Ask them “Why do you think she formatted it in such a way?”

Step 4

Show them the next few slides in which Camisha, the poet, explains the reasoning behind her erratic line breaks.

Step 5

Have the students write a poem in which they write a poem about their body, more specifically the time(s) they felt like they weren’t in full control of it.

Step 6

When the students are done, have them share their responses if they feel comfortable enough to do so.

The full presentation may be found HERE.

Analytical Lesson

Area of Focus: Structure (Line Breaks)

Step 1

If your students are not aware of how the “structure’ of a poem affects its meaning – particularly the poem’s line breaks – review the introductory lesson.

Step 2

Use the following PowerPoint to lead you through the lesson. The steps will be outlined below, as well.

Step 3

Have them read the following unformatted poem, “Ode to a Chronically Ill Body” (it’s reproduced three times so you can cut them out). Then determine where they would create line breaks to maximize dramatic effect.

Step 4

Show them the actual format on the poem on the next slide, then have them listen to her recording of the poem.

Step 5

Have the students analyze her line breaks in the following document. Directions are provided at the top of the page.

Step 6

When they’re done, go through the last few slides to show them what Camisha, the poet, said about composing the poem and the reasons behind the line breaks. You may also share the following sample response.