In the spring, sixth grade students participate in a poetry unit that allows them to read, recite, and create poetry.  They learn that poetry is way of expressing feelings and emotions creating bonds between people.  We read poems by famous and favorite poets.  We examine different formats, haiku, acrostic, concrete poems.  The students use critical thinking skills to understand the author's message and then put their own words on paper to be shared with others.  Reading and reciting poetry gives our students the chance to experience the joys of language while at the same time improving their speaking and listening skills all of which develops self confidence and maturity.