Lady Jordan

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: Defy

Step 1

Watch the embedded commercial from Nike. Then discuss the general concept behind it and its effectiveness. What is the commercial “selling”? How does it convey its message?

Step 2

Read “Lady Jordan” by Denice Frohman. When you’re done, briefly discuss the poem. What is the speaker like? And how does the poem reiterate the sentiment of the commercial from Nike?

Step 3

Say, “Think of a person (not necessarily a woman) who defied expectations in their respective field (not necessarily a sport). Who is this person? Why did they have to defy odds? Take some time to think of all of the specifics as you can.” Then give your students a few moments to brainstorm.

Step 4

Have your students compose a poem similar in sentiment to “Lady Jordan” in which they focus on a person who defied the expectations that were placed on them. Their poem does not necessarily need to revolve around sports!

Step 5

When the students are done, have them share their responses with one another.

The full presentation may be found HERE.

Analytical Lesson

Area of Focus: Various

Step 1

This lesson allows students to analyze various concepts and skills, so it is recommended that you have covered several of the “standalone” lessons before assigning this one.

Step 2

Show your students the following highlight reel of UFC fighter Jon Jones’ career.

Step 3

Then show your students the following poster. Ask your students, “How does the image tell the ‘story’ of Jon Jones and his career rather than simply just advertising his upcoming fight?” Briefly discuss the poster’s elements that contribute to the story.

Step 4

Read “Lady Jordan” by Denice Frohman. As you’re reading, have your students pay attention to the “story” that is told through the poem, a story that extends beyond the scope of the poem itself.

Step 5

Have your students go through the following document and go over the instructions with them. In this assignment, your students are going to create a “sports poster” that captures the messages and themes of the poem.

Step 6

Show a few more examples before your students get started. Prompt them to discuss the different design elements that contribute to the “story” of each of the posters.

Step 7

When you’ve gone through the examples, give your students time to work.

Step 8

When your students are done, have them share their posters with the rest of the group and have your students try to determine the intentions behind the posters’ design elements.