Designed to demonstrate a variety of ways in which listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities can be built around the study of poetry, this collection of materials, lessons, and activities covers some of the most frequently taught poems in New York City ninth-grade classrooms. The document begins with a general introduction to teaching poetry, including specific suggestions for teaching the genre to ninth-grade students. Next is a description of a resource unit on teaching poetry, called "The Poet Observes." Details about the unit follow, including information on (1) ninth-grade goals and objectives; (2) preparatory activities; (3) motivation; (4) themes; (5) the elements of poetry; (6) reading poetry aloud; (7) writing; (8) research activities; (9) enrichment activities; (10) audiovisual materials; and (11) teaching vocabulary through poetry. A bibliography, a glossary of thoughts on poetry, 15 sample lessons concerning different types of poetry, and a vocabulary list comprise the remainder of the booklet. A list of poems appearing in the guide is included on the table of contents page. (SKC)