1. Shel Silverstein Webquest

2. Introduction
“The Toy Eater,” was written and illustrated by Shel Silverstein. In this webquest you will be exploring the poetry and history of Shel Silverstein, while also learning more about poetry itself.

3. Questions
What was the lesson Shel Silverstein was trying to teach within the poem you chose to read in your group?
What are some examples of poems that he wrote? Please include three.
What was the date of Shel Silverstein’s birth?
What was Silverstein’s first book published? And in what year?
What was Silverstein’s nickname?
What was your reaction to the poem you read in your group and why did you feel that way?

4. Resources/ Resources for Future Study

5. Illinois Learning Standards -English Language Arts
2.A.2a Identify literary elements and literary techniques (e.g., characterization, use of narration, use of dialogue) in a variety of literary works.
2.A.2b Describe how literary elements (e.g., theme, character, setting, plot, tone, conflict) are used in literature to create meaning.
2.A.2c Identify definitive features of literary forms (e.g., realistic fiction, historical fiction, fantasy, narrative, nonfiction, biography, plays, electronic literary forms).
2.B.2a Respond to literary material by making inferences, drawing conclusions and comparing it to their own experience, prior knowledge and other texts.
2.B.2c Relate literary works and their characters, settings and plots to current and historical events, people and perspectives.

6. Task Shel Silverstein was known for his creativity and quirkiness.
Students split up into groups of three.
Choose one poem of his to read to gather inspiration for your assignment.
From there they are to create a poem of their own and also include a illustration.
Be as creative and silly as possible.
That’s what Shel would have liked! (WWSD- What Would Shel Do?)
Be prepared to explain your poem and illustration to the class.

7. Process
With your group members create a theme or main idea you want your poem to be around.
Use your creativity to create a six-twelve line poem. (A poem does not have to rhyme, however it is not discouraged.)
Once you have written the poem and proofread it, take time to create a title.
The final step is to create a clever illustration that Shel Silverstein would have seen fit.

8. Evaluation
The end product of this Webquest will be the presentation and explanation of the poem and illustration your group created.
You will be graded on your participation and teamwork, along with your ability to follow the steps given.

9. Congratulations!
Awesome! Your group’s poems are outstanding! Shel Silverstein would have been so proud of the quality of work you have created. We hope that through this Webquest you were able to learn more about Shel Silverstein, along with more about poetry.

10. Use a Smart Board activity to create a lesson on rhyming words.
Teaching Extensions
Google Earth Tour to learn about the history of Shel Silverstein’s life.
Use a Smart Board activity to create a lesson on rhyming words.
Have students create a powerpoint comparing and contrasting two of Shel Silverstein’s poems.
Have students right a one page response of one of Shel Silverstein’s poems.
Have students create a Prezi involving one of his poems and include pictures that go with it.

11. Hard Copy References