Teacher Guide

My Papa's Waltz Lesson Plan

Study Objectives

If all of the elements of this lesson plan are employed, students will develop the following powers, skills, and understanding:

  1. 1

    Student will evaluate the role of ambiguity in Roethke's poem and apply that analysis to other poetry and literary works.

  2. 2

    Students will create their own ambiguous memory poems in the vein of "My Papa's Waltz."

  3. 3

    Students will examine the role of meter, word choice, and rhyme in the poem.

  4. 4

    Students will analyze the poem through essay responses.

  5. 5

    Students will engage in discussion about style, symbolism, and meaning in "My Papa's Waltz."

Join Now to View Premium Content

GradeSaver provides access to 2368 study guide PDFs and quizzes, 11018 literature essays, 2792 sample college application essays, 926 lesson plans, and ad-free surfing in this premium content, “Members Only” section of the site! Membership includes a 10% discount on all editing orders.

Join Now

Already a member? Log in