Gouge student Ben Ballard gets to work writing in his journal on Wednesday, April 6 in a study of poetry.
Gouge Elementary students in Michelle Lord’s third-grade class on Wednesday, April 6 got outdoors to appreciate poetry.
The students visited the Riverside Story Trail, which currently features the book “Daniel Finds a Poem.” Students observed things in the park and did movement activities designed by Katie Willett, Williams YMCA Mitchell County liaison, to coincide with the story.
Volunteer Stacey Lane guided students in the firsthand experience. Students were treated to a sunny, mild morning as they each received a Word Gobbler booklet courtesy of Penland School of Craft. Students can use it to jot down future poetic inspirations.
Some students also found hidden eggs courtesy of the Blue Ridge Partnership for Children. They can be redeemed for prizes at the Spruce Pine Library.
The poetic experience coincides with National Poetry Month, which is April. “Daniel Finds a Poem” will be on display on the trail all month and the Story Trail crew is working to promote local poets.
“It was a great way to get rolling on the celebration of National Poetry Month,” Lane said.
Lane led the students through the Story Trail and read one of her favorite poems as the group enjoyed lunch.
After walking the Story Trail, students played on the playground and before leaving, students sat by the river and wrote in their new journals.
“Some students wrote and some drew,” Lord said. “I asked several students about the day.”
Ben Ballard said he enjoyed writing in his journal. He even wrote a poem during reflection time.
“The sun is the warmth of the Earth,” he wrote. “The Earth is the place for all life. To live and love.”
Brookelynn Helmer said she enjoyed moving between stations. Rebbecca Willis added that coming up with her poem was a highlight.
Lord said the Story Trail is a valuable resource and she hopes other teachers will take advantage of it.
“It was an amazing way to kick off our poetry unit this month,” she said. “The Story Trail is free and combines physical activity and literature.”