'I took a trip to Harvard in July.' Iambic Pentameter Parts 1 & 2

‘I took a trip to Harvard in July.’ Iambic Pentameter Parts 1 & 2

In two class periods we focused on the Shakespearean Sonnet and iambic pentameter. In his Sonnet #127, William Shakespeare muses on beauty and its perception as a ‘currency’ in the modern world: ‘In the old age, black was not counted fair.’ Students took some time to experiment with iambic pentameter and rhyme scheme. Below are some examples. Lesson Note: A strict form, such as the Shakespearean Sonnet, might actually allow for creativity rather than hinder it. When we learn the form, we appreciate more the breaking of that same form.

Mrs. Nazimek 8th Grade, Group 2

Couplet Sergio B.

The clock is ticking, time is running out.
You get the ball and wi-ld crowd shouts.

Couplet Alexa V.

The sun was hot o it seem it burns.
Even today the rainy weather turns.

Couplet Brianna A.

The people had fun at the carnival
They got hurt and went to the hospital.

Mrs. Nazimek 8th Grade, Group 1

Couplet Jose L.

The game is Fortnite Snipe kills like for you.
Knowing I’m like a Ninja no one can beat me.

Couplet Solmariely R.

For he’s the one that makes me feel alive.
He let’s me know that I am able to strive.

Mrs. Nazimek 8th Grade, Group 3

Couplet Jennifer M.

Outside is where I really love to be.
Its a wonderful place to sit and see.

Couplet & Quatrain Cassandre N.

I took a trip to Harvard in July
Where I saw landmarks like Old Harvard Yard.
I looked up at the bright blue Boston sky
And knew that my decision wasn’t hard.

I’ll go to Harvard University
And learn how to do neurosurgery.