Read the Prereading information on page 589. You will note that the two poems you are about to read give different perspectives on bats. Write down your feelings about bats, and discuss them with the class. Review elements in the comparison and contrast chart you will fill in as you read. Keep in mind that you will be reading to compare and contrast two perspectives of bats presented in the poems.
1. Follow along in the text as your teacher reads “The Bat” aloud. Then, work with two or three other students to fill in the first column of your chart. You might review Elements of Poetry on page 578 to help you identify some of the literary techniques used in the poem. Record the literary techniques, the main idea, the author’s perspective about bats, and your own perspective. You should also record in the chart your reactions to the poem.
2. Read “Bats” together with your group. Then, work together to fill in the second column of your chart.
If you have difficulty filling in your chart, try rereading one or both of the poems independently. Read through the poem once for each element in the chart. First, look for literary techniques used. Then, reread the poem looking for its focus. Go through the chart, rereading the poem as many times as needed to fill in the required fields.
When you have completed your chart, review the contents and discuss the literary techniques, the focus, the main idea, the perspective, and any other outstanding elements with your group members. How are the poems similar? How do they differ? Discuss how setting a purpose for reading helps you to focus on the poems and their content.