Poetry Out Loud

Registration for the 2010-2011 season of Poetry Out Loud is now open! Register your school before October 15, 2010.

Poetry Out Loud seeks to foster the next generation of literary readers by capitalizing on the latest trends in poetry – recitation and performance. The program builds on the resurgence of poetry as an oral art form, as seen in the slam poetry movement and the immense popularity of rap music among youth. Poetry Out Loud invites the dynamic aspects of slam poetry, spoken word, and theater into the English class. Through Poetry Out Loud, students can master public speaking skills, build self-confidence and learn about their literary heritage.

How to Get Started

Start by registering your school online and reviewing the information For Teachers.  Once registered, each participating teacher/school site will receive a toolkit, which includes a program guide to help teach recitation and performance, an audio guide with selected poems recited by distinguished actors and writers, and print anthologies for students to select their poems—free of charge.

In Arizona, Poetry Out Loud (POL), is administered by the Arizona Commission on the Arts in collaboration with POL Regional Partners.  Registered schools will be contacted by their region’s partner about the many additional resources and opportunities available.