As we write our opera story and continue to explore the many sides of failure, we realize that we must find a way to break through the thoughts and feelings that hold us back and keep us from reaching our goals and being who we truly are.

Writing poetry gives us an outlet for releasing our deepest emotions. Oftentimes, when young children compose poetry, like all else, they look to models and examples of the genre for ideas in technique and style. The poems they read and hear recited are all they know. A rhyming element almost always finds its way into children’s verses. Unfortunately, when rhyming is at the center of composing for kids, it is often forced and superficial. When we are free to write words, phrases and verses without concern for specific technique, we get the real, raw expression of self.

(Insert writing here.)

In teaching, we must always think about our purpose and keep it at the heart of all instructional decisions. Why read and write poetry? How will this benefit our students as they move through school and through life? These questions will drive us as educators to do what is best for our students.