The third instructional activity of five in an eighth-grade poetry unit has young scholars comparing Shakespearean sonnets with Petrarchan sonnets. To begin, they examine the different structures of the two forms and their different rhyme schemes. After responding to questions about the sonnets on a worksheet, learners craft original sonnets.

Concepts

poetry, poetry analysis, sonnets, syllables, compare and contrast, rhyme schemes, rhythm, rhythm patterns, literary devices

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Instructional Ideas

• Some learners may need additional scaffolding; have class member contribute their ideas and write a sonnet together
• Plan the lesson for April—National Poetry Month

Classroom Considerations

• Projection device required
• Learners need access to devices with internet
• Preparation includes making copies

Pros

• Includes the rules for writing the sonnet forms
• Partners respond to each other's sonnets

Cons

• None

Common Core

W.8.10