Outcast

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: Outcast

Step 1

Have the students brainstorm a list of times when they simply felt out of place, or in a place at the wrong moment in time. Then have them share their responses. 

Step 2

Read the poem “Outcast” by Claude McKay and discuss his feelings of alienation.  

Step 3

Using “Outcast” as a mentor text, have them write a 14 line poem of their own in which they discuss a particular instance of feeling like an “outcast.”

Step 4

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

Extension Activity: Have the students write their poem while abiding by the “rules” of a sonnet, as outlined in the introductory lesson.  

The full presentation may be found HERE.

Analytical Lesson

Area of Focus: Structure (Sonnets)

Step 1

If your students are not familiar with the fundamental characteristics of a sonnet, go through the introductory lesson with them.

Step 2

Tell the students that, using their knowledge of the structure of a sonnet, they will be piecing together a sonnet that has been separated into 14 individual lines. When they’ve constructed their poem, have them determine its larger message.

Step 3

Have the students partner up and work in the following document. Directions can be found in the first slide.

Step 4

When the students are done, show them the actual poem and briefly discuss it. Then share the exemplar essay so they can see if their understanding is similar in scope.