Grade 2 - The Ancient Greek Civilization

The Ancient Greek Civilization | Pausing Point 99

that were sung at special occasions like banquets and festivals,

accompanied by music, instruments, and dancing.

An ode is a poem that admires something ordinary or shows the

importance of something that is usually overlooked. An ode does

not have to rhyme, but it should have detailed descriptions and

observations. As either a class or in small groups, have students

write odes. To scaffold this activity for students, use the following

steps:

1. Brainstorm what you could write about. Think about things
   you see and experience everyday that you don’t usually
   notice. Examples might include chocolate, shoes, teachers,
   friends, fl owers, sleep, books, love, school, toothbrush,
   computers, etc.


2. Once you pick your topic, brainstorm why it is important.
   What does it do? Why is it important? What would happen
   without it? How do you feel about it? Put these details into
   parts or sections in your description.


3. Write your ode as a class or as a small group. Keep the lines
   short and use as few words as possible.


4. Revise and rewrite, as time permits.
   Here are some guidelines for odes:

• Describe the subject using at least two different senses (touch,
  taste, sight, sound, smell)


• Show how much you admire the subject.


• Use words and phrases more than sentences.


• Explain the importance of your subject.


• Have a clear rhythm.

The Olive Tree

Materials: Image Cards 1, 5, and 14; olives and olive oil

Show students Image Cards 1, 5, and 14, and ask them what they

see. Ask students if they have ever eaten an olive or had food

cooked or prepared with olive oil. Allow them to share what they

have learned about the olive tree and its fruit. You may wish to