BOUQUET
By Langston Hughes
Gather quickly
Out of darkness
All of the songs you know
And throw them at the sun
Before they met
Like snow
Today in music class we focused on the poetry of Langston Hughes, an amazing American poet of the Harlem Renaissance. We learned to properly recite the poem, with motions, giving credit to the author. Older children talked a little about what the poem is thought to mean, and we also touched on the period that Langston lived in, and the racial inequities that influenced his writing.
We looked at an image of Langston Hughes as well. Everyone enjoyed reciting the poem and performing the actions. We also played some fun large motor games (such as "Mouse Mousey", a cat and mouse game, and freeze dancing!).
You will notice that this month, Black History Month, is going to be filled with the rich cultural contribution of African-American writers, musicians and also the myths and legends of Africa. Follow along by checking the music calendar each week!
See you next week--and as always, check below for your weekly extender questions. Don't forget to watch this adorable video of the four year olds performing "Bouquet!"
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR CHILD
1) Do you know a poet named Langston Hughes?
2) Can you recite the poem "Bouquet" with me? Show me the motions! (Watch/listen to the video above to get a feel for it!)