Should We Include Poetry in Our Education System?

Poetry has long been considered a staple in the English curriculum, but as education continues to evolve, the question that arises is, is poetry still relevant in today's classrooms? There is no denying the beauty and power of the written word, but there are also valid arguments for why teaching poetry may not be the most efficient use of our time in the classroom. 

First and foremost, poetry is often seen as a complex and confusing form of expression. Many students struggle to understand the poetic language consisting of old English and imagery, which can lead to frustration and disengagement in the classroom. This can be especially problematic in a school system that values standardized test scores and practical skills over artistic pursuits.

Second, poetry may not be the best use of instructional time. In a world where technology and critical thinking are becoming important, there is a limited amount of time and resources available to teach these skills. Rather than focusing on the study of poetry, it may be more beneficial to prioritize subjects such as mathematics, science, and history, which have a more direct impact on students' futures.

Another argument against teaching poetry is that it can often be seen as culturally biased. The canon of poetry that is traditionally taught in schools is often limited to works by dead white men, neglecting the perspectives and experiences of other cultures and communities. This lack of diversity can further alienate students who may not feel represented in the curriculum.

Ultimately, the decision to include or exclude poetry from the curriculum is a complex one that will depend on individual schools and teachers. However, it is important to consider the potential benefits and repercussion of this artistic form in order to make informed decisions about the future of poetry education.