Before Reading

Think about Frightening Things

Look at the title of the poem. Then make a list of things that frighten you. What things frighten other people? Share your thoughts about frightening things with the class.

During Reading

Discover What Frightens the Speaker

Listen as the teacher reads the poem to the class. Write down things that do not frighten the speaker.

Fix-Up Idea: Vary Reading Rate

Reread the poem two more times on your own, one time reading it faster than normal, another time reading it slower than normal. Which speed makes the most sense?

After Reading

Do You Agree?

Discuss what does not frighten the speaker in the poem. Do you agree with the author? Why, or why not?