Poetry Break #2: Poem written by NCTE poet

Introduction:
This poem makes us think about the worst itch you've ever had. Before reading, have students think about how they feel when they have an out of reach itch and possible ways to reach it.



Five
Ways To Be Alone With An Itch
In The Center Of My Back

1. Rub Myself On The Corner Of The Hallway Wall.
2. Roll On the Family Room Carpet.
3. Scratch Myself With The Kitchen Broom Handle.
4. Scratch Myself With The Kitchen Broom.


5. Drop The Cat Down My Shirt.

by Arnold Adoff


[From: TOUCH THE POEM, Blue Sky Press, 2000]

Extension:
Brainstorm other ways to reach terrible itches. Have students make another poem about trying to reach an unreachable itch. Imagine other animals such as a pet with a terrible itch and make a poem about how they would reach their itch. Expand the idea to other animals such as elephants or camels and have students make a poem about them.