Join poet and teacher, Tyler B. Perry, in exploring poetic ways of responding to (or pushing back against) standardized reading comprehension tests. Rather than reducing the interpretation of a poem to a single correct answer, we will use the multiple choice test format as a springboard for poetic creation in a series of response activities. This will be part poetry reading, part writing workshop, and part active discussion. We will consider the importance of embracing ambiguity and uncertainty, while allowing room for multiple–even contradicting–interpretations of poems. This will help alleviate the fear and anxiety that often accompanies the writing of standardized tests, and remind poetry readers of their active, creative, and empowered role in interpreting poems. Participants will leave with ready-to-use lessons and unit plans.

No attendee parking at Western Canada High School. Parking reserved for presenters by permit only.