Grade Eight
Booklet
Poems:
Horatian Ode: An ode is typically a long poem that praises or celebrates a particular person or
subject. There are three different types of odes, which follow many different formats. The Horatian Ode
is typically written in two line or four line, rhyming stanzas, which repeat the same rhyme scheme
throughout the poem. Ex: AABB AABB AABB, or ABAB ABAB ABAB, etc.
Riddle: Length varies, but riddle poems typically consist of three lines or more, each one a clue to the
riddle, and they occasionally rhyme and/or end with a question.
Epitaph: While they can be serious, modern epitaphs are often intended to be funny. An epitaph,
traditionally, is a four line poem found on a person’s tombstone.
Assignment: Create a five page poetry booklet including the following:
P. 1: Title Page: catchy title, well thought out design or image, “author’s” name
P. 2: Ode: minimum three stanzas of exactly four lines, all of the same rhyme scheme. Ex: AABB
AABB AABB, or ABAB ABAB ABAB
P.3: Riddle: minimum three lines/clues (do not include answer on this page)
P.4: Answer to Riddle.
P.5: Epitaph: exactly four lines, at least two lines must rhyme. Ex: ABCB
** The booklet must be based on one theme, and every page should enhance this theme with
appropriate decorations or images. We will brainstorm possible themes in class. This assignment
should demonstrate insight, creativity, and knowledge of the poetry studied. You will be given a
minimum of two classes, and possibly more if effort and appropriate use of time is observed!
Note: assignments can be created using computers, include printed images, magazine clippings, art
supplies, etc., but it is the student's responsibility to acquire all materials that cannot be provided.