LS 5603- Genre 2 - SCHOOLYARD RHYMES

Sierra, Judy and Sweet, Melissa. 2005. Schoolyard Rhymes: Kids' Own Rhymes for Rope Skipping, Hand Clapping, Ball Bouncing, and Just Plain Fun. Alfred A. Knopf: New York

Characters
The characters in the text vary to the rhyme. Some of the rhymes specifically use a name or occupation. Others are generalized to the first person while the remainder are as if they are speaking to the reader. A few of the rhymes include animals or toys.

Plot
The rhymes are simple and in many cases there is more than one on a page. The actions in the rhymes are familiar to children. Many of the rhymes are just for fun and do not contain a message to the reader.

Setting
Since each rhyme is its own entity there is no real setting for the book.

Theme
The rhymes almost always have a line that will provoke a reaction from the reader/listener. This reaction will most likely be laughing, giggling, or an appropriate “EWWW!”

Style
The book has a strong sense of rhythm because it contains rhymes. There may even be several different “rhyming parts” in one specific rhyme. Some of the rhymes also contain physical movements. This will help to engage the kinesthetic learner.

Illustrations
The illustrations for the book change for each rhyme. Many of them are exaggerated with very noticeable facial expressions. The facial expressions add a detail for the reader in case they are unsure of the text.

Cultural Markers
Male and female characters are depicted at varying ages with different skin colorations. There are no discernable cultures in the dress or actions in the book. The endpapers have illustrations that depict typically American playground games.

Anthologies
The book contains forty-six different rhymes. They are listed in an index by the first line of the rhyme. There are eight rhymes that are depicted with jump ropes. Many of the rhymes will be familiar to elementary students.

Positive reviews
Publishers Weekly
Children’s Literature
School Library Journal
Kirks Reviews

Connections
This would be a wonderful resource for collaboration with the physical education teacher. You can clap out the rhymes, do a physical movement when you hear a rhyming word, use the rhymes for “rope skipping, hand clapping, ball bouncing” as the cover has stated. Many students need to move while they learn.
You could also complete a Venn diagram between this text and OH SAY CAN YOU SAY by Dr. Seuss. Both resources contain short rhymes and would be a good way to compare and contrast the books.