WWE

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: Toxic

Step 1

Have the students watch the embedded video. Then discuss what point the commercial is trying to convey.

Step 2

Have your students brainstorm a list of times when they have been subject to – or at least have witnessed – “toxic masculinity.”

Step 3

Read Fatimah Asghar’s “WWE.” Then discuss how her aunt’s obsession with WWE contributes to the same ideas expressed in the video.

Step 4

Have the students write a poem in which they address “toxic masculinity” and talk about how they have seen or experienced it first hand.

Step 5

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: Imagery

Step 1

If your students are not familiar with the concept of “imagery,” go through the introductory lesson.

Step 2

Watch the following video.

Step 3

Now read through Fatimah Asghar’s poem, “WWE.” Then discuss how the content of the video reflects the poem’s larger message.

Step 4

Have the students open the document and go through the instructions with them. In short, they are going to have to dissect the imagery of the poem by creating questions that force them into analysis.

Step 5

When you’re done going over the instructions, have them start working on the assignment.

Step 6

When the students are done, share their responses aloud. Then share the exemplar essay to see if there were similarities in analysis.