Name: _____________________________________________________ ______________ Due Date: _______________

I Hear America Singing Writing Assignment

After reading the poem I Hear America Singing, by Walt Whitman, write a paragraph in which you analyze the theme of the poem. Your paragraph should offer an explanation to the following questions: What is the poem s theme? What elements of America does Whitman celebrate? (Be very specific here) How does Whitman s use of poetic techniques reflect the theme/meaning of the poem? (At the very least, please analyze two techniques. Three is better.)

WRITING RUBRIC: Poetry Analysis Standard

(Student Checklist)
Organization and Focus Claim Statement
Appropriate background information (title of poem? poet?) Coherent thesis/claim statement (is it arguable? Specific?)

Teacher Score 1 2 3 4

Comments and Sub score

Support
Statements and claims are supported by quotes from the poem Elaborates and explains supporting details

Writing Strategies

Conclusion
Conclusion summarizes key points Final comment provides insight, life applications, broader themes

Style
Fluid integration of supporting evidence (quotes can t stand alone). Varied, precise and vivid word choice Varied sentence structure Appropriate voice and tone for audience, 3rd person (no I )

/16

Sentence Structure
Correct and complete sentences Correct use of phrases, clauses, conjunctions, prepositions and modifiers

Conventions

Grammar and Usage

Correct subject/verb agreement Correct pronoun usage Accurate and consistent verb tense

Spelling, Punctuation and Capitalization

Correct use of punctuation, capitalization, and spelling Demonstrates a comprehensive grasp of the poem

/12

Response to Poetry

Analyzes the way in which stylistic devices contribute to the meaning of the text (e.g. imagery, symbols, figurative language, etc.) Supports ideas through accurate and detailed references to the poem.

/12 /40

Overall Score