How to Compare Poetry on PowerPoint
When reading two poems, Microsoft PowerPoint can allow you to compare layout, shape, sound, metre, theme and word choice. Careful choice of layout, use of video and audio, and a color code system all enhance your reading of the poems and the visual appeal of your presentation.
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Layout
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There are two ways to display two poems on a single PowerPoint slide. One way is to display them side-by-side in separate text boxes, showing the difference in line length and shape. The other is to alternate lines, allowing for a close line-by-line comparison. In this case, use a different font for the color of the second poem.
Sound and Rhythm
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The sound of a poem is just as important as its appearance on the page. Several websites have archives of poems being read aloud that you can download and import sound and video clips into PowerPoint under the Insert menu. This may be especially helpful if the poet has a regional accent different from your own.
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Color Codes
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Using a color code system will allow you to draw out particular words or draw attention to words and themes that the poems share. PowerPoint allows you to change the font color under the Format menu, as well as to embolden, italicize and underline text.
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References
- How Poetry Works; Phillip Davies Robert; 1986
- Mastering English Literature; Richard Gill; 2006
Resources
- Photo Credit Children with a laptop and a book image by Elena Vdovina from Fotolia.com
