Lesson Plan

Teach This Poem: "The Tradition" by Jericho Brown

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

To begin this lesson plan, class members examine Antonius Hockelmann's painting "Tree Flowers II," record elements of the painting that they notice, and share their observations with a partner. Next, pupils do a close reading of Jericho Brown's poem "The Tradition," and once again share their observations. A whole class discussion of observations, connections between the painting and the poem, and questions concludes the lesson plan.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Instructional Ideas
  • If no one in the class recognizes the names of the three men listed in the last line of the poem, have volunteers research them
  • For more advanced learners, assign each group a different flower listed in the poem, ask them to provide a picture, research the plant's symbolism, and any other information they believe germane to the poem (e.g. Foxglove represents insecurity and is poisonous to the touch)
  • You might also ask pupils to consider why Brown chose "The Tradition" as the title of his poem
  • Include the poem in a  poetry unit and/or as part of February's Black History Month studies
Classroom Considerations
  • The lesson's casual approach to poetry is designed to build pupils confidence in reading and appreciating poetry; encourage more advance learners to research the many allusions in the poem
Pros
  • Includes a list of classroom activities
Cons
  • None