Poetry Books For 6th Graders

Poetry is an important part of most literature courses in middle school. Books that focus specifically on poems can help sixth graders understand the depth and nuance of poetry and gain a better appreciation for the genre. With a wide variety of poetry books available, there are plenty of options to choose from when looking for suitable titles for your 6th grader. From traditional classics to modern stories told in verse, these books will introduce young readers to the richness and beauty of poetry.

As we all know, reading is one of the most important skills a student can acquire. And while fiction and non-fiction books are commonly used to help students develop their reading skills, poetry books can be just as effective in stimulating their imaginations and enhancing their understanding of language.

If you’re looking for poetry books that are perfect for 6th graders, here are some great options to consider:

1. “Where the Sidewalk Ends” by Shel Silverstein – This classic collection of poems is sure to capture the attention of any 6th grader. With whimsical illustrations and witty rhymes, Silverstein’s poems explore everything from homework woes to silly creatures.

2. “Love That Dog” by Sharon Creech – This novel-in-verse follows a young boy named Jack as he learns to appreciate poetry through his interactions with his teacher and a dog named Sky. The book is written in a simple but powerful style that will appeal to both reluctant readers and literature lovers alike.

3. “Out of Wonder: Poems Celebrating Poets” by Kwame Alexander – This anthology features original poems written by Alexander, Chris Colderley, and Marjory Wentworth that celebrate the work of famous poets such as Langston Hughes, Maya Angelou, and Emily Dickinson. The book also includes biographical notes about each poet.

4. “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander – In addition to being a Newbery Medal-winning novel about basketball players Josh and Jordan Bell, this book is also filled with poetic language that captures the rhythm and energy of the sport.

5. “Brown Girl Dreaming” by Jacqueline Woodson – In this memoir-in-verse, Woodson shares her own experiences growing up as an African American girl in the 1960s and 1970s. Her poems touch on themes such as family, identity, racism, and social justice.

Reading poetry books can help 6th graders develop their vocabulary, improve their comprehension skills, and enhance their appreciation of language. With these five titles, you can introduce your students to the joys of poetry and inspire them to become lifelong readers.