WebQuest: The Laughter of Understanding Dad Jokes

Introduction

You will go on a mission is to explore the poem "Dad Jokes" from multiple angles and creatively present your findings. By the end of this WebQuest, you will: 

  • Analyze the poem’s language, themes, and structure

  • Research the cultural and emotional significance of humor in families

  • Reflect on your relationship to humor and storytelling

  • Create your own “layered” humorous poem or short video inspired by Briscoe's work

9 Dad Jokes So Bad They're Actually Hilarious - Mantry Inc.

 

Task

By the End of this WebQuest, you will: 

Explore Anthony Briscoe’s poem "Dad Jokes" and uncover the deeper meaning behind its humor.

You will analyze the poem’s language, structure, and themes and research how humor plays a role in family relationships and emotional expression.

Along the way, you’ll reflect on your own experiences with humor and storytelling.

Finally, you will create a personal, creative response — either by writing your own layered, humorous poem or by producing a short video inspired by the poem — to demonstrate your understanding of how comedy can carry deeper truths.

Process

Step 1: Read and Reflect

  1. Read the poem "Dad Jokes" by Anthony Briscoe carefully. You can find it: https://www.blackpoolsocial.club/36111-poem-dad-jokes-by-anthony-briscoe

  2. Watch a live performance of the poem, if available (on YouTube or elsewhere).

  3. Answer these questions on a piece of paper:

    • What emotions do you notice in the poem?

    • How does the humor work? Is it only funny? Or does it serve a deeper purpose?

    • What do you think Briscoe is saying through the dad jokes?

Step 2: Dig Deeper

  1. Dive into the role of humor in communication, especially in families and between fathers and children, based on the poem. 

  2. Take notes on: Think Critically (your own answers)

    • Why do people use humor in emotional situations?

    • How can humor be both a shield and a bridge?

    • How does this relate to the poem?

Step 3: Poetic Analysis

  1. Identify at least three poetic devices Briscoe uses. 

  2. How does the structure of the poem reflect the themes?

  3. Fill out a short literary analysis sheet or answer:

    • What is the central theme of "Dad Jokes"?

    • What lines or phrases stood out to you the most, and why?

Step 4: Creative Response

Choose one of the following assignments:

Option A: Write Your Own Poem

  • Write a poem in the style of "Dad Jokes", using humor as a way to express something real and emotional. Use repetition and punchlines with a twist.

  • Title your poem. 

Option B: Create a Mini-Video Performance

  • Write and record a short video (1–2 minutes) performing your piece (poem). 

  • Your video can be funny, touching, etc. 

 

Evaluation

 

Here is the Evaluation Rubric for the created poems by students: 

Criteria Excellent (4) Good (3) Fair (2) Needs Work (1)
Poem Analysis Deep, thoughtful insights and use of literary terms Solid understanding, some depth Basic interpretation, little depth Minimal effort or misunderstanding
Research & Connection Excellent integration of research with poem’s themes Some integration of research Basic facts, weak connection Little or no research
Creative Project Powerful, original, emotionally layered Creative and clear Basic effort shown Minimal creativity
Presentation / Clarity Clear, polished, engaging Mostly clear and understandable Some clarity issues Hard to follow
Effort & Reflection Goes above and beyond; strong personal connection Good effort and thought Adequate effort Lacking effort or reflection
Conclusion

Humor goes beyond making us laugh — it can be a way to cope, connect, and remember. Through this WebQuest, you’ve uncovered how Anthony Briscoe’s "Dad Jokes" uses humor to carry deep emotions and personal history. Hopefully, you’ve also discovered that your own jokes and stories might hold more significance than they first appear.

Credits

References: 

Club, B. S. (2022, October 4). Poem: Dad Jokes by Anthony Briscoe. Blackpool Social Club. https://www.blackpoolsocial.club/36111-     poem-dad-jokes-by-anthony-briscoe/

 

 

Teacher Page

WebQuest Title: The Laughter of Understanding Dad Jokes

Grade Level: Late Middle School- High School (Grades 8-12) 

Subject Area: English, Drama, Creative Writing 

Duration: Can take up to 2-3 class periods