Revising And Editing Poetic Pearls

To assist young poets to polish their raw words and transform them into poetic pearls requires some scaffolded support. *I have created the following Revising* and Editing checklists. Feel free to use them as a starting point with your student writers. Remember writing poetry is about using powerful words in tight spaces. That way you are more likely to create some sparks! My Revising Checklist For Poetry**
SKILL	Student	Teacher
I have tried using repetition of words, sounds or phrases.
I have experimented with lines and white space.
I have read it aloud to see if the line breaks work for emphasis.
I have tried to use surprising language.
I have replaced ordinary words with stronger words.
I have tried different leads or endings.
I have tried different titles.
I have used strong VERBS at all times
I have tried changing the order of the lines or stanzas.
I am providing enough detail for my audience of readers to get clear mind pictures.
I have tried to include, where possible SIMILES, ALLITERATION or METAPHORS in my poem

My Editing List For Poetry
Skill	Student	Teacher
Have I used capital letters for the names of specific people or places?
Have I circled words that look wrong?
Did I get rid of any unnecessary words?
Have I read it aloud once more to listen to the flow of my words?
Have I used contractions when appropriate to provide my writing with a natural voice?

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