The Importance of Courtesy: A Poetic Exploration

WEEK 9

Topic: Comprehension III
Subtitle: Poem

Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson, pupils should be able to:

• Read and understand simple poems.
• Identify the values and lessons presented in a poem.

Resources and Materials

• Scheme of Work
• Online information
• Instructional materials: Flash cards and picture charts

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge

Students have been introduced to poetry in previous classes, familiarizing them with various forms and themes.

CONTENT

Poem: “Courtesy”
(Adapted from Page 3 of NPE Book 3)

Many of us are courteous and polite,
Even with strangers we are meeting.
But being nice has much more might,
As it lasts longer than just a greeting.

Thank you, you’re welcome, and please
Are words most are taught as a child,
But being a really nice person with ease,
Takes a very long, long while.
— by Jean Gorney

Strategies and Activities

1. Revision: The teacher revises the previous topic to ensure continuity in learning.
2. Introduction: Introduce the new topic by discussing what a poem is and its significance.
3. Explanation: Read the poem aloud to the class, explaining difficult words and phrases.
4. Discussion: Encourage students to share their thoughts on the poem and its message.
5. Questions: Invite pupils to ask questions about the poem for better understanding.

Assessment & Evaluation

• Question 1: Mention three courtesy words found in the poem.
• Question 2: Name two ways to show courtesy in daily life.

WRAP UP (CONCLUSION)

The teacher reviews the key points of the poem and the importance of courtesy in social interactions to reinforce learning.

Assignment

1. When we receive gifts from our elders, we are expected to say _________________.
2. Should we be polite to strangers? _______________ (Yes/No and explain why).

This structure enhances readability and understanding, making the lesson engaging for students while providing additional resources to deepen their learning experience.

Evaluation Questions

1. The poem is about the importance of __________.
   a) honesty
   b) courtesy
   c) bravery
2. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a courtesy word in the poem?
   a) Please
   b) Thank you
   c) Sorry
3. The line “Being nice has much more might” suggests that __________.
   a) being nice is weak
   b) kindness is powerful
   c) kindness is unnecessary
4. How long does it take to become a really nice person, according to the poem?
   a) A few days
   b) A long time
   c) A week
5. Which of the following is a synonym for “courteous”?
   a) Rude
   b) Polite
   c) Indifferent
6. The phrase “thank you, you’re welcome” are examples of __________.
   a) commands
   b) courtesy words
   c) jokes
7. In the poem, who is the author?
   a) Jean Gorney
   b) William Wordsworth
   c) Robert Frost
8. The poem suggests that children are taught courtesy __________.
   a) at school
   b) at home
   c) from strangers
9. According to the poem, courtesy lasts longer than just __________.
   a) a greeting
   b) a gift
   c) a song
10. The poem states that being courteous takes __________.
    a) effort
    b) little time
    c) no time
11. The theme of the poem is primarily about __________.
    a) sharing
    b) respect
    c) kindness
12. The words “thank you” are often taught __________.
    a) in books
    b) as a child
    c) in music
13. The poem emphasizes that courtesy is __________.
    a) not important
    b) easy to learn
    c) a valuable trait
14. Which line implies that courtesy can be difficult?
    a) “Many of us are courteous”
    b) “Takes a very long, long while”
    c) “Thank you, you’re welcome”
15. The poet uses __________ to convey the message of the poem.
    a) humor
    b) metaphors
    c) simple language

Class Activity Discussion

1. What is courtesy?
   Answer: Courtesy refers to polite behavior and respect towards others.
2. Why is it important to be courteous?
   Answer: Being courteous helps build positive relationships and promotes a respectful environment.
3. Can you give an example of a courteous behavior?
   Answer: Saying “thank you” when someone helps you is an example of courteous behavior.
4. How can we show courtesy to our friends?
   Answer: We can show courtesy by listening to them, respecting their opinions, and being polite.
5. What are some common courtesy words?
   Answer: Common courtesy words include “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me.”
6. How can being courteous affect our daily interactions?
   Answer: Being courteous can lead to more positive and friendly interactions with others.
7. Why do you think the poet wrote this poem?
   Answer: The poet likely wrote the poem to encourage readers to practice courtesy in their daily lives.
8. What are some ways we can teach younger children about courtesy?
   Answer: We can model courteous behavior, read them stories about kindness, and encourage them to use polite words.
9. How does the poem relate to our everyday lives?
   Answer: The poem teaches us that courtesy is important in all our interactions with people.
10. What might happen if people do not practice courtesy?
    Answer: A lack of courtesy can lead to misunderstandings, conflicts, and a negative atmosphere.
11. How can courtesy influence a community?
    Answer: Courtesy can foster a sense of community, cooperation, and mutual respect among its members.
12. Can you think of a time when someone was courteous to you? How did it make you feel?
    Answer: (Open-ended response; students can share personal experiences.)
13. What are some situations where courtesy is particularly important?
    Answer: Courtesy is especially important in formal settings, during conversations, and when meeting new people.
14. Do you think courtesy is taught or learned through experience?
    Answer: (Open-ended response; students can express their views on how they learned courtesy.)
15. What message do you think the poet wants to convey about courtesy?
    Answer: The poet wants to convey that courtesy is an essential and enduring value that enhances relationships.

Evaluation

1. What is the main theme of the poem?
2. List two courtesy words found in the poem.
3. How does the poet describe the duration of learning to be nice?
4. Why might some people find it challenging to be courteous?
5. Can you explain how the poem uses language to convey its message?
6. What lesson can we learn from the crane and the fox in the earlier poem?
7. How can we practice courtesy in school?
8. Why do you think the poet used the word “might” in the poem?
9. In your opinion, is courtesy important in today’s society? Why or why not?
10. How does courtesy contribute to a positive learning environment?

These components provide a comprehensive approach to assessing students’ understanding of the poem and encouraging them to engage with the material actively.