This unit focuses on “Diving into the Wreck” by Adrienne Rich.
Clarifying one's identity is a process that goes on throughout life. For adolescents, this becomes one of the major preoccupations. Introversion and outward experimentation go hand in hand. “Diving into the Wreck” by Adrienne Rich speaks to the complicated process of finding, and defining, oneself.
We encourage you to have your students watch the video before reading the poem. This preactivity provides context and a visual entry point for diverse learners, helping students hone their skills of perception, and giving all a chance to have something to say both before and after reading the poem. As always, adapt all the activities to the specific needs and learning styles of your students, and your curriculum. Browse for more poems on identity and take a look at our anthology of poems on the subject.
Reading Literature:
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL, Key Ideas and Details, 9-12.1
CCSS. ELA-Literacy.RL, Craft and Structure, 9-12.4
Speaking and Listening:
CCSS. ELA-Literacy.SL, Comprehension and Collaboration, 9-12.1
Interdisciplinary Connections
Social Studies/English Language Arts/Guidance
Activity: Viewing “The Wreck of the Titanic”
Objective: Students will hone their perceptual skills (listening and seeing), as well as skills for speaking with a partner.
In this activity, your students will watch the video clip “The Wreck of the Titanic.”
Note: Students can view this video either on laptops or iPads at their desks or on a large screen in the front of the room. If on a large screen, it is important to let students in the back of the room come up close to the screen, so they can view details in the video.
Activity I: Reading and Listening Multiple Ways
Objective: Students will use careful noticing skills to identify important parts of a poem, while listening and reading.
Activity II: Small Group Discussion
Objective: Students will communicate their own ideas and perceptions in a small group.
Activity III: Vocabulary
Objective: Students will learn vocabulary from cues in content and from making connections.
Cousteau
assiduous
schooner
maritime
floss
sundry
crenellated
prevail
flank
threadbare
vermeil
obscurely
Activity IV: Whole Group Discussions
Objective: Students will form an interpretation of a poem while citing evidence in support of their interpretations.
There are multiple topics you can include in whole class discussions of “Diving into the Wreck.” Choose the one(s) that fit most closely with your curriculum—or create your own!
Note: They all should have information to help them participate in these discussions, because of the preceding activities.