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One Idea About Al Purdy
Project type: Introductory Activity
Related topic:
Al Purdy, An Uncommon Poet
Al Purdy, An Uncommon Poet
Subjects
English Language Arts
Summary
Students will search for literary themes in Al Purdy’s poetry and show how they express elements of his life and outlook.
Duration
1 lesson
Purpose
To introduce students to the life and work of a major Canadian poet
Before Exploring
Ask students to share what they already know about the Canadian poet, Al Purdy. Explain the concept of theme as the main idea in a piece of literature or a work of art.
Outline the Opportunity
Divide the class into pairs. Direct students to the topic Al Purdy, An Uncommon Poet on the CBC Radio and Television Archives Web site and have them browse all the clips. As they explore, tell them to look for and choose one main idea, or theme, from Purdy’s poetry or from his life. Have them write a paragraph that states the theme and uses at least three examples from the clips to show how the theme has been expressed.
Revisit and Reflect
Post a piece of chart paper on the board. Have the students share their themes with the rest of the class and explain why they chose them. Record the themes on the chart. As a class, discuss what the students have learned about Al Purdy and his poetry.
Extension
Encourage students to read more of Purdy’s poetry and to identify his predominant themes. Have them brainstorm and jot down some themes they can use in their own poetry.
