Perform slam poetry
Write and perform your own short slam poem, practice using voice, rhythm, and gestures, then share it aloud with family or classmates.
Step-by-step guide to write and perform a short slam poem
Become a slam poet in five steps - Gayle Danley
Step 1
Find a quiet space and sit down with your materials ready.
Step 2
Pick one topic or feeling you want to write about like brave angry happy or excited.
Step 3
Write 5 short words or phrases about your topic on your paper.
Step 4
Use those words to write a short slam poem of 6 to 12 lines.
Step 5
Read your poem quietly to yourself to check the order of the lines.
Step 6
Read the poem out loud once and clap or tap to find its rhythm.
Step 7
Change two words or one line to make the rhythm stronger or the image sharper.
Step 8
Choose two clear gestures that match parts of your poem and practice them without speaking.
Step 9
Rehearse your poem aloud three times using your gestures and varying your voice loudness and speed.
Step 10
Perform your poem aloud for family or classmates.
Step 11
Share your finished poem or a photo/video of your performance on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use instead of paper or a camera if we don't have them?
If you don't have paper, use a notebook, sticky notes, or the notes app on a phone to write your five words and poem, and if you can't record a video for DIY.org ask a family member to watch live or take photos while you perform.
My poem feels rhythmless when I clap or tapāwhat should I try?
If your poem feels rhythmless when you 'clap or tap to find its rhythm,' try slowing your pace, marking beats under each line on your paper, tapping on a table for a steady tempo, or recording yourself and then 'change two words or one line' to tighten the rhythm.
How can I adapt the activity for younger or older kids?
For younger kids, shorten the poem to 3ā6 lines, use picture cards to pick a topic and practice the two gestures with a caregiver before performing for family, while older kids can aim for up to 12 lines, experiment with louder/softer dynamics during the three rehearsals, and record a video for DIY.org.
How can we make the slam poetry performance more creative or personal?
To enhance your performance after rehearsing aloud three times, add a prop or simple costume that matches your topic, create a small beat with claps or a phone metronome to lock the rhythm, or collaborate with a friend and submit a photo or video of the final performance to DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to write and perform a short slam poem
How To Write Slam Poetry? - Tales And Texts
3 Videos
How To Write Slam Poetry? - Tales And Texts
How To Teach Slam Poetry? - The Language Library
How to Write a Slam Poem
Facts about spoken-word poetry and public speaking for kids
ā±ļø Most slam poems are shortācompetitors usually get about 3 minutes to perform their piece.
š In many slams the audience scores performances, so connecting with listeners matters as much as the words.
š Slam poetry is performance-heavy: voice, rhythm, facial expressions, and gestures boost the poem's power.
š¤ Slam poetry started in Chicago in 1984 when poet Marc Smith turned open-mic nights into friendly competitions.
š Spoken word and slam poetry have grown worldwide, with youth slams, festivals, and teams in many countries.
How do you perform slam poetry with a child?
What materials do I need for a kid-friendly slam poem activity?
What ages is slam poetry suitable for children?
What are the benefits of kids doing slam poetry?
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