Look at the title of the poem below. Based on the title alone, do you think that this poem might be serious or lighthearted?
Property for Sale By Rachel Rooney
Two houses up for sale. One stick, one straw. Both self-assembly, See pig next door.
Focus on ... title A title is the name given to a poem or song.
You should always examine the title of a poem before reading it. What do you expect from the poem based on the title? Return to the title when you have fi nished reading the poem. Does it make you think differently about what you have read?
Reread ‘Property for Sale’. With a partner, discuss whether you felt differently about the title after reading the poem.
Understand
1. Can you guess which well-known fairy tale inspired this poem? 2. We are told that both houses are ‘self-assembly’. What does this mean? 3. What materials are mentioned in the second line?
4. In Ireland, is it usual to build a house with the materials mentioned in the second line?
