Geographical limericks My intention here is to use these as starters to lessons for the relevant topics. As well as providing an introduction to the topic, at the end of the lesson I intend to go back to the limerick to discuss the ideas in more detail and to pose questions of students. For instance, for the Favelas limerick, questions posed might include: Why do ‘thousands’ continue to go the favela? What are the consequences of the streets being unclean? For more geographical poetry ideas and a link to a full book devoted to the topic, go to www.poemsforgeography.blogspot.com

Favelas There was a Favela called Flo One of many in Rio, you know. Her streets were unclean Her people were mean Yet thousands continued to go.

Meanders There was a meander called Steve Whose path would wander and weave He would bend in the main Across the flood plain A point bar is what he would leave

Stacks There once was a sea stack called Jed Who was once part of Flamborough Head But now they’re apart And poor Jed has lost heart His days full of anguish and dread

Rivers There once was a river called Tony Whose bedload was jagged and stony He was close to the source In the steep upper course He was puny, thin and quite bony.

Earthquakes There once was an earthquake called Walt Things were never his fault He was quick to attack Leaving huge breaks and cracks For minutes he just would not halt.

Volcanoes There was a volcano called Sarah Who was part of a vast cordillera She would erupt with great ease Throwing ash to the breeze Leaving woodland destroyed and land barer.

Fair Trade There once was a trader named Claire Who had not heard the meaning of ‘fair’ All that mattered was price No, she wasn’t that nice Flogging T-shirts and men’s underwear.