Introduction: This poem is about Jane, a long-term friend who is no longer in my life due a "falling out." Ask students if they have ever grown apart from someone who was important to them.

Jane

Jane,
once sister,
now stranger.
Once giggling, clowning,
a parrot green hat
with sequins and veil.
Once singing, marching,
a pied piper dance
with princes and princesses.
Once sharing, listening,
a stereo hearing aid
tuned to my heart.
Now, dreaming, scheming
turning torn pages
alone.

(Poem by Barbara Katz; written 7/31/04)

Extension: a) Invite students to draw illustrations of Jane from the images in the poem. b) Read other stories and poems about friends who go through hard times.


Introduction: This is a silly poem inspired by reading Shel Silverstein and Jack Prelutsky.

Snookie Maree

Snookie Maree,
Snookie Maree,
Swingingest boy
You'll ever see.

He swung to the left,
He sung to the right,
And then he swing
Way out of sight.

(Poem by Barbara Katz; written 6/04)

Extension: Share "silly poems" by Shel Silverstein, Jack Prelutsky, and Douglas Florian. Afterwards, invite students to write a silly poem.