The Calling of Kindred: Poems from the English Speaking World (Cambridge School Anthologies)
Cambridge School Anthologies Series
on Goodreads (15)
What’s inside...
A collection of anthologies, resource and reference books, including titles from Oscar Wilde, Mary Shelley, Alex Madina, Jo Phillips and Adrian Barlow.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
11-18
Length
178 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the feelings and experiences in these poems relate to people from different parts of the world?
Which poem resonated with you the most and why?
Can you think of a time when you felt a similar emotion to what was expressed in one of the poems?
How do the different poets use language to convey their message or emotions?
What have you learned about other cultures through these poems?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read a poem together and then pause to discuss any words or phrases that stand out to your child.
Encourage your child to express which poem they feel most connected to and explore the reasons behind their choice.
Discuss the diverse backgrounds of the poets and how their experiences might have shaped their writing.
Use the poems as a starting point to teach your child about the history or culture of the various countries represented in the anthology.
Create a mini-project where your child picks their favorite poem, researches the poet, and presents what they learned.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through the diverse voices and perspectives in the anthology, children learn to understand and empathize with people from different backgrounds.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children in social interactions, fostering a more inclusive and understanding attitude towards classmates and friends who may come from diverse cultures.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Language and Poetry
Explanation: The anthology exposes children to the beauty and versatility of the English language through poetry, enhancing their appreciation for literary expression.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by engaging more deeply in their own language arts projects, and possibly developing a lifelong interest in reading and writing.
Example Lesson: Historical and Cultural Awareness
Explanation: The poems cover a range of historical periods and cultural contexts, offering children insights into different worldviews and historical events.
Real-World Application: This knowledge helps children to better understand global history and current events, making them more informed and engaged citizens as they grow.
Example Lesson: Critical Thinking and Interpretation
Explanation: Analyzing poems helps develop critical thinking and interpretive skills, as children learn to find meaning and draw conclusions from complex texts.
Real-World Application: These skills are applicable in academic settings across subjects, aiding in problem-solving and analysis tasks in school and beyond.