Faith CoLab: Tapestry of Faith: Exploring Our Values Through Poetry: A Program for High School Youth

Alternate Activity 1: Rainy Day Plan

Activity time: 50 minutes

Materials for Activity

  • Poetry anthologies suitable for youth (see Find Out More for suggestions)

Preparation for Activity

  • If planning on reading outside, find a suitable spot that will not disturb other groups. Consider bringing blankets, pillows, and special snacks to make the event festive.

Description of Activity

If your group is not planning to hold a Poetry Slam, use this workshop in one or both of the following ways;

My Favorite Poem: Ask each participant to bring a favorite poem from their childhood to read to the group. After each reading, discuss the possible differences in interpretation that readers made as children versus those made as youth.

Reading on the Green: Taking your poetry outside combines two great joys: the appreciation of poetry and the out-of-doors. Special snacks will turn the event into a picnic. You might let youth read to themselves from poetry anthologies. You could invite youth to bring poetry on a certain theme: the current season, nature, UU poets, or the like. You could also combine My Favorite Poem with Reading on the Green. Just have fun.

Including All Participants

If you choose to go outside, make sure your space is accessible to both regular participants and anyone who might visit.