Make two sets of three flags. As you read, focus on the author’s tone. Use the flags to mark places that help you determine the tone in the poem.
1. Read along as your teacher reads the beginning stanza of “First Love” aloud. As you listen, put sticky flags next to lines that help you determine the author’s tone. Read the rest of the poem on your own. Flag other key lines. Go back and write a quick note about the tone.
2. Read “Point Guard” on your own. Use sticky flags to mark key lines in this poem as well. Again, make notes about the tone on the sticky notes.
If you are having trouble determining the tone, listen to a partner or your teacher read the poem aloud. Then try reading the poem aloud yourself.
With a partner, compare the parts of the poem you flagged. Talk about the tone of each poem. How did flagging lines help you determine the tone of the poem?