Aesthetics in Geography: Ideas for Teaching Geography Using Poetry

Abstract

This article discusses how poetry can be used for teaching geography. The rational for using and writing poetry, its relationship to the National Standards for Geography, grade levels, pedagogical concerns associated with poetry writing, and subject integration are discussed. There are also classroom activities, sample discussion questions, lesson plans and both print and Internet resources.

Key Words:

• geography and writing
• poetry
• subject integration
• elementary education
• secondary education

Dr. Joseph M. Kirman is professor emeritus, social studies subject area, at the Department of Elementary Education, University of Alberta, where he continues his research and writing. He is Webmaster of the Canadian Social Studies Super Site for teachers (www.ualberta.ca/∼jkirman) and his textbook Elementary Social Studies – Creative Classroom Ideas (Pearson Publications, Prentice-Hall Canada) is now in its fourth edition.

Notes

1. For a definition of poetry refer to “Approaching Poetry” by Stacy Tartar Esch http://brainstorm-services.com/wcu-2002/poetry-definitions.html