Page 3 Poetry vs Prose


Self-Assessment

What do your responses on the self-assessment quiz state about your general impression of poetry? 



View "The Jumblies" by Edward Lear.

Have you ever read the nonsense poem "The Jumblies" by Edward Lear?

Refresh your memory by watching this video animation.



Poetry Versus Prose Chart



Did you notice that even though some words are invented, the meaning of the poem remains clear enough to draw and tell a story?

In poetry, words are used in an extraordinary way to help you understand meaning. Words that appeal to your five senses (sight, taste, touch, smell, and sound) help you "imagine" what the poet is saying. This creative use of words is called imagery.

Consider how "The Jumblies" is different than written selections you read and completed in the non-fiction unit.

What are some similarities and differences between poetry and prose (non-fiction and fiction)?

Poetry is about... but Prose is about...
Purpose
Creative Communication

  • Inform
  • Entertain
Straightforward Communication

  • Inform
  • Instruct
  • Entertain
Structure
  • lines
  • stanzas
  • sentences
  • paragraphs
Focus
  • art
  • beauty
  • emotion
  • precise words
  • imitate reality
  • facts
  • examples
  • events
  • details
  • examine reality
Conventions
  • sound techniques most often rhythm, rhyme
  • figures of speech
  • imagery
  • concise use of language
  • straightforward language
  • sometimes imagery and figures of speech
  • extended use of language



  Please contact your teacher if you have questions.