Ogden Nash

Introduction

Today we are going to dive deep into the humor and wit of Ogden Nash! You will be able to analyze his work, learn a little more about him, and write your own take on his poetry. With this new found knowledge you will have the opportunity to create a presentation to share this information! Let's get started!

Task

Please work individually on this Web Quest and explore your own creativity and humor!

Outline: 

1. Learn about Ogden Nash's life and then create a timeline

2. Analyze two of his famous pieces 

3. Create your own Ogden Nash inspired poem

4. Present your work

Process

Task 1:

Researching Ogden Nash's life

Creating a Timeline About Ogden Nash's life 

  • Use a website like https://timeline.knightlab.com/ for example or any formatting that is easy for you!
  • Incorporate important dates and events throughout his lifespan on the timeline

 

Task 2: Poem Analysis

Choose 2 of Ogden Nash's poems from the list below to read (these can found on Poetry Foundation)

  • “A Word About Dogs”

  • “The Cow”

  • “The Turtle”

  • “The Trouble with Kids”

  • “An Adventurer’s Guide to the Moon”

Tying it all together

  • After reading these 2 poems write a small paragraph for each analyzing his humorous tactics, the topics, and themes presented, and what makes his writing different than other poets!

 

Task 3: Writing Your Own Poem 

  • Begin by brainstorming a topic you find humorous
  • Then draft your poem 
    • Your poem should include a funny subject, rhymes, and wordplay. 
    • It should be 4-6 lines and use your creativity!

 

Task 4: Presenting Your Work

  • Use Google Slides / Powerpoint or a poster to present your timeline, poem analysis, and your poem!
  • Use visual aids, color, and your creativity!
  • Your presentation should include details about Ogden Nash's life, his poetry, and your spin on his work.
  • Prepare to be asked questions after your presentation 
Evaluation
Criteria Excellent (4) Good (3) Satisfactory (2) Needs Improvement (1)
Research & Biography Thorough research; timeline includes at least 8 key events; facts are accurate and detailed. Solid research; timeline includes 6-7 key events; most facts are accurate. Some research; timeline includes 4-5 events; some inaccuracies or missing details. Limited research; timeline includes fewer than 4 events; multiple inaccuracies.
Poetry Analysis Detailed and insightful analysis of three poems; clearly explains humor, rhyme, and wordplay in each. Good analysis of three poems; identifies key elements but may lack some depth in explanation. Basic analysis of three poems; identifies some key elements but lacks thorough explanation. Limited or incomplete analysis of poems; fails to explain key elements.
Poem Creation Poem is highly creative, humorous, and in the style of Ogden Nash; excellent use of rhyme and wordplay. Poem is creative and humorous, with some use of rhyme and wordplay; follows Ogden Nash’s style. Poem is somewhat humorous; minimal use of rhyme or wordplay; does not fully capture Nash’s style. Poem lacks humor or creativity; does not use rhyme or wordplay; not inspired by Nash’s style.
Visual Representation Visual perfectly complements the poem; well-designed and creative; enhances the overall presentation. Visual complements the poem; design is clear and relevant, but lacks some creativity or detail. Visual is relevant but simplistic or unclear; does not fully enhance the poem. No visual or visual is unrelated or poorly designed.
Presentation Presentation is clear, engaging, and well-organized; effectively communicates findings and poem; excellent use of media. Presentation is clear and organized; communicates findings and poem well, with some use of media. Presentation is somewhat clear but lacks organization or engagement; limited use of media. Presentation is unclear, disorganized, or lacks engagement; little to no media used.
Grammar & Mechanics No errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation. Few errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation; does not distract from the presentation. Some errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation; occasionally distracts from the presentation. Frequent errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation; distracts from the presentation.
Conclusion

In todays Web Quest you have dove into the life story of Ogden Nash and what separates his humor from other poets. You have worked to create an analysis, a poem, and a presentation rounding up your knowledge and own take on his work. We hope you have grasped a glimpse of what makes him such a special part of poetry!

Credits
Teacher Page

Scoring Guidlines:

  • Excellent (4): Student demonstrates detailed understanding of content and has excelled in all work created. 

  • Good (3): Student meets expectations for project without exceeding in creativity and effort. 

  • Satisfactory (2): Student meets the basic requirements but needs further education on content. 

  • Needs Improvement (1): Student does not meet the basic requirements and submits subpar work.