Objective
By the end of this lesson, the student will be able to understand and create limericks.
Materials and Prep
- Paper
- Pencils or pens
Activities
- Introduction to Limericks: Start by explaining what a limerick is. Show examples of limericks and discuss their characteristics, such as their funny and rhyming nature.
- Identify Rhyme Scheme: Teach the student about rhyme schemes in limericks. Explain that the first, second, and fifth lines of a limerick rhyme with each other, while the third and fourth lines rhyme with each other.
- Create Limericks Together: Guide the student in creating a limerick together. Start by brainstorming a topic or a character for the limerick. Then, help the student come up with rhyming words and construct the limerick following the AABBA rhyme scheme.
- Independent Limerick Writing: Encourage the student to write their own limerick independently. Provide them with a topic or let them choose their own. Remind them about the AABBA rhyme scheme and assist them if needed.
- Sharing and Feedback: Have the student share their limerick with you or a family member. Provide positive feedback and discuss what they enjoyed about the process of creating a limerick.
Talking Points
- What is a limerick? A limerick is a funny and rhyming poem with a specific structure.
- How many lines does a limerick have? A limerick has five lines.
- What is the rhyme scheme of a limerick? The first, second, and fifth lines rhyme with each other, while the third and fourth lines rhyme with each other.
- What are some examples of limericks? "There once was a man from Nantucket..." or "There was an old person of Dover..."
- What are some characteristics of limericks? Limericks are usually humorous, have a bouncy rhythm, and often include a surprise or twist in the last line.
- How can we create a limerick? We can start by choosing a topic, then come up with rhyming words to fit the rhyme scheme, and finally arrange them into a funny poem.
- What did you enjoy about creating a limerick? Encourage the student to share their thoughts and feelings about the activity.