QUESTION 1
1.1. In your own words, provide a definition of poetry.
Poetry is a form of expression that uses carefully chosen words to convey ideas, emotions, and
experiences. It often employs rhythm, sound, and structure to create a musical quality that enhances
its meaning and impact. The rhythmical patterns and sonorous effects of poetry help to make it more
memorable. It can be broadly divided into two types: lyric poetry, which focuses on personal
emotions or moments, and narrative poetry, which tells a story or recounts a series of events.
1.2. Lynch-Brown alludes to the “sonorous and rhythmical effects” (1997:52) of a poem. What
does this imply in terms of the best way to introduce young learners to poetry such as nursery
rhymes?
Lynch-Brown highlights that the "sonorous and rhythmical effects" of poetry refer to its musical
qualities, including regular rhythms that help convey meaning. To introduce young learners to poetry,
especially nursery rhymes, teachers can set the poems to music, emphasizing their rhythm and
repetition. Using movement, clapping, and instruments enhances engagement and helps learners
internalize the rhythm of the language. The repetitive nature of nursery rhymes makes them
memorable, and accompanying illustrations aid in visualizing and remembering the content.
1.3. What is the value of nursery rhymes being illustrated?
Illustrations in nursery rhymes enhance engagement by making the content visually appealing and
memorable for young learners. They aid language acquisition by helping children understand and
"read" the story, especially for non-readers or second-language learners. Illustrations also clarify the
story’s characters and plot, fostering emotional connections and deeper understanding. Furthermore,
they stimulate cognitive and sensory development, encouraging imagination and exploration. Overall,
they support the development of visual literacy, laying the foundation for future reading skills.
1.4. Poetry, such as nursery rhymes, have specific elements that help you interpret and
understand the poem. One such element is rhythm. In your own words, provide a definition of
rhythm, and indicate the distinction between fast and slow rhythm in poetry. Enhance your
explanations of fast and slow rhythm by providing 1 example of each from nursery rhymes.
Definition of Rhythm:
Rhythm in poetry refers to the regular beat that flows through the poem, similar to the rhythm in
music. This rhythmic pattern helps convey meaning and emotion, making the poem memorable and
engaging. Nursery rhymes are often characterized by their strong rhythm, which aids in language
development and makes the rhymes easier for young learners to remember, even if they do not
understand all the words. Many nursery rhymes follow specific metric patterns, such as an
eight-syllable per line structure, which mirrors a musical beat.