Leodis V. McDaniel High School – Spoken Word Poetry

Mar 2026 · 2nd Semester

The Spoken Word Poetry course at McDaniel High School offers a dynamic and immersive exploration of poetry through performance, history, and cultural movements. This year-long, one-credit course is designed for students to develop their skills in speaking, reading, writing, listening, and performing poetry in the spoken word tradition. The course integrates the rich history and cultural impact of the Hip Hop movement, the Black Arts Movement, and the Beatnik era, examining how these movements shaped contemporary spoken word and poetry as an art form. hroughout the two semesters, students will engage with diverse poets, their works, and the historical contexts that gave rise to these artistic revolutions. They will learn how to craft powerful, authentic poetry that connects with audiences, and gain practical experience in performing their own work. Additionally, students will explore the dynamics of rhythm, rhyme, and spoken language, while also cultivating an understanding of poetry’s role in social change. By the end of the course, students will have a strong foundation in the history, theory, and practice of spoken word, with opportunities to perform their work at school events and in a final showcase. Whether you're a budding poet or simply interested in exploring the art of spoken word, this course will help you find your voice and express it confidently.