Description
This resource features an in-depth study of Maya Angelou’s powerful poem “Phenomenal Woman” and is designed to help students engage in meaningful poetry analysis through close reading and guided questions.
Students read the poem multiple times to build comprehension and then respond to a set of analysis questions that focus on both meaning and craft. As they work through the activity, students examine key poetic devices and literary elements, including rhyme, rhyme scheme, consonance, repetition, figurative language, metaphor, alliteration, hyperbole, tone, audience, and theme. An answer key is included to support instruction and assessment.
This lesson works well as part of a larger poetry unit and is also an excellent choice for Women’s History Month or Black History Month, as it highlights Angelou’s voice, confidence, and message of empowerment.
For teacher flexibility, this resource includes two formats: a ready-to-print PDF and an editable Word document, allowing you to adjust questions or pacing to best meet your students’ needs. Perfect for middle school and high school ELA, this activity supports close reading, discussion, and thoughtful analysis of a classic poem.