- Scan the text. Top to bottom. Left to right.
- Focus on the words. Not on the text.
- Look for words that 'speak to you' 'jump out'. Circle these words with a pencil.
- The words should flow together to express an idea, create an image or develop a theme.
- Write out the words and phrases on a separate paper in the order they appear on the page.
Step 4: Students will solidify their poem by going back to the page of text and finalizing their word choice and, therefore, poem. They will carefully outline their final selection of words with a black marker. Be sure to remind them not to rush through this part. Afterall, you cant erase marker!
Step 5: Use the marker to blackout all of the unused words. Yup. It’s as simple as that. However, if you’re looking for a way to bring the poems to life, add the step below. Imagery and poetry go hand in hand, right? Keep reading to learn how students can incorporate visual elements into their blackout poems.