Spoken word is a combination of a poem and a rap that is performed for an audience. It is poetry that is intended to be performed.
Spoken word is an oral skill that plays on words to create a message that is catchy and memorable. It relies on a heavy use of rhythm, improvisation, word play and slang.
In his spoken word short film Look Up, Gary Turk encourages people to look up from their smartphones and to engage with the world in a meaningful way.
1. Do you think that using spoken word is effective in this short film? 2. In your opinion, what is the most important point that Gary makes in this film?
3. After watching this film do you feel differently about how you interact with your phone?
4. Can you think of any possible opportunities you may have missed as a result of being on your phone?
5. Do you know of any other spoken word videos you could share with the class? Create
Work in groups to create a spoken word poem about social media and how it can disconnect us from the world around us. When you have finished, perform your piece as a group for the rest of the class.
