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    Winter, 2000-2003

    Dear Parents and Teachers, 
     

      The first semester is ending and we're headed to the second.  We hope that
    you are off to a great start and that your students are getting into the swing of things, as they continue their journey through the educational system.  We have some programs that we believe will help them on their way! 
      Below is a copy of the assembly and artist in Residence programs. These 
    programs have been well received and we're looking forward to being in your 
    area in the near future.  Please take a few moments to review the information and we think you will agree that they can work for your students. 
      We have just gone on the World Wide Web and I hope you have enjoyed 
    our excerpts from our new book,  Poetry With A Porpoise .  We hope that your visit here gives you a feel for what we are trying to accomplish with this project.  Sue and I deeply believe in the values expressed in this book!  It stresses the importance of doing your best and that, with hard work and perseverance, goals can be reached and, when they are, the feeling of accomplishment is well worth the effort!  It is only in this way that a child will begin to experience the feeling of self worth that comes with genuine achievement! 
      Please take the time to look over the material below and travel around our 
    site. We look forward to working with you to create a meaningful and enjoyable experience for your students. 
                Best regards, 
                Sue and Rick Peoples

     Artist in Residence Program 
      1-3: Student will see how there is a smile in every porpoise, as we make a
    porpoise puppet.  They will use the puppet to keep meter for the original poem I will write with them.  The poem will be written using key words provided by the students or teacher.  The subject will be a current topic being studied by the class.  The children will then create original art, while I write a melody to the poetry we have written.   The class will learn and perform the song.  We will make a tape of it and each child will have experienced the thrill of creation first hand! 
     
      4-6:  This program is very similar to the primary level, with some key 
    differences.  We will write an original poem about a specific topic that is under study.  These students, however, will be asked to write four lines (two couplets) 
    as a group.  We will then try to combine the groups' work and make a cooperative poem.  Students will again create their own illustrations, as I make up the melody 
    to the poem.  We will learn, sing and tape the song as a souvenir.  The class will enjoy the feeling of group achievement and, at the same time, learn that creating does not have to be a solitary pursuit. 
     
      The artist in residence program may be used in conjunction with the 
     assemble program.  There is a fee for this program, please call or write for more details.  I will make three 40 minute visits to the classrooms of your choice.  Once again, there are fund raising plans available!

    Assembly Programs 
      K-2:  This program runs roughly 30 minutes.  It includes readings from 
    Poetry With a Porpoise, as well as singing and dancing.  It is filled with participation, 
    on various levels; to keep the students focused.  We will discuss what poetry and rhymes are, how meter becomes rhythm and how rhythm leads to melody.  Children will see how a poem becomes a song, as they keep time at their seats.  We call this program, "When Words Come Alice" and it puts poetry in a different light to many students. 
     
      3-6:  This is the same "When Words Come Alive" concept as the primary
    program.  There is more a challenging exchange of information in this program and it includes the actual making of our book,  Poetry With a Porpoise.  It takes the student on our journey from the idea stage, through pre production, production and marketing.  This is a highly positive program whose goal is to let students know that goals are attainable and that achievement is rewarded.  It demonstrates that accomplishment is worth the effort.  Along the way, we'll touch on the same points as with the primary program (i.e. The what and why of poetry, meter, rhythm and melody.)  This interactive program is usually 40 minute long. 
     
      There is a fee for either a morning or afternoon session.  A session will
    include both k-2 and 3-6 show.  I would also be happy to do a signing session.  We will be glad to tailor a plan for your organization or school.  We have a fund raising program that can pay for some or all of the expense. 

    Call toll free 877-620-2906 or  email us  for more information.
 
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