Materialism and consumerism are facts in most of the world but how many teachers ask students to look at these matters in an analytical way or express an oposite view? We often say we are in a rat race but getting out is easy.

Write this short poem on the board or give out paper copies.

A Tyranny of Things

Be minimalist
not acquisitive.
Perhaps philanthropy
be your cup of tea?
What joy do trifles bring?
Fie the tyranny of things.

Robin 1999

This is not an easy poem for ESL learners but it is short and managable, best for high school students and older.

1. Have the students check the difficult words in a dictionary.
2.Point out the 3 stentence and 6 line structure.
3. Ask if they understand rhyme and then ask for the rhyming words.
4. Now perform the poem using body language, stressing certain words and using face expressions.
5. Point out that many long words were chosen. They have a lot of syllables and need to be said carefully. Practice the big words orally with the students. Demonstrate the joy of using complex words. Spit them out fast and have fun.
6. Ask if some others want to try performing the poem and reward them with claps and smiles. Ask them to try a different personality like Golum, or a fairy, or Terminator. This can be huge fun.
7. Now ask students to simplify the poem by rewriting it using easier words or synonyms. This is a writing assignment.
8. In the next class ask the kids to read their new poems aloud or post them all for the whole class to read.
9. Select a few examples and write them on the board. Next, ask the students if the new words change the meaning of the poem. Does the title now fit?
10. Finish this lesson by discussing student views about materialism and consumerism.
Copyright 2005 Robin Tim Day