My Shadow by Robert Louis Stevenson

Introduction:

Welcome to the enchanting world of poetry! This printable page presents the delightful poem "My Shadow" by Robert Louis Stevenson. Through this engaging poem, children are not only introduced to the joy of reading but also encouraged to explore language arts, expand their vocabulary, and gain valuable insights into imagination and self-reflection.

Poem: "My Shadow" by Robert Louis Stevenson:

I have a little shadow that goes in and out with me, And what can be the use of him is more than I can see. He is very, very like me from the heels up to the head; And I see him jump before me, when I jump into my bed.

The funniest thing about him is the way he likes to grow— Not at all like proper children, which is always very slow; For he sometimes shoots up taller like an india-rubber ball, And he sometimes goes so little that there’s none of him at all.

He hasn’t got a notion of how children ought to play, And can only make a fool of me in every sort of way. He stays so close behind me, he’s a coward you can see; I’d think shame to stick to nursie as that shadow sticks to me!

One morning, very early, before the sun was up, I rose and found the shining dew on every buttercup; But my lazy little shadow, like an arrant sleepy-head, Had stayed at home behind me and was fast asleep in bed.

Utilizing the Poem for Educational Purposes:

  1. Language Arts Exploration: Encourage children to read and recite the poem aloud, exploring rhyme, rhythm, and word meanings. Discuss the poet's use of descriptive language to depict the playful nature of a shadow.

  2. Building Vocabulary: Identify new words or phrases within the poem and discuss their meanings. Encourage children to incorporate these words into their daily vocabulary.

  3. Imagination and Self-Reflection: Encourage discussions about imagination and self-awareness, asking questions about the relationship between the narrator and their shadow.

  4. Common Knowledge: Explore the concept of shadows and their behavior, linking it to common experiences and observations.

  5. Creative Activities: Engage children in creative tasks like drawing their own shadows or writing stories inspired by the poem's theme of imagination and companionship.

By delving into this charming poem, children not only enhance their language skills but also delve into the realms of imagination and self-awareness, fostering a deeper understanding of poetry and self-expression.


We emphasize here the educational aspects of the poem "My Shadow" and how it can be utilized to engage children in language arts, vocabulary building, imaginative thinking, and self-reflection.

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