When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer (Poem by Whitman)
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"When I Heard the Learn'd Astronomer (Poem by Whitman)" is written for 7th Grade (Ages 12-13), and it covers Common Core RL.7.5. A 6th grader who is already steady on poetry can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.
2 pages in this set
7th grade reading worksheet: explain how line length and the turn shape Whitman's poem about a learned astronomer. Answer key included. Part of our poetry comprehension collection. Aligned to Common Core standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Read the poem aloud first, then let students answer on their own. Use the answer key to check, and ask students to read the lines they quoted aloud.
What students will practice
- Students will read Whitman's poem with a note and glossary.
- Students will compare line 4 with the last line to see how the poem's length changes.
- Students will find the turn in the poem and explain what shifts.
Curriculum Links
Common Core State Standards
Reading: Literature · 7th Grade
Standard: Analyze how a drama's or poem's form or structure (e.g., soliloquy, sonnet) contributes to its meaning.
View all RL.7.5 worksheets →Find this in the curriculum
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FAQ
How do I use this poetry comprehension worksheet?
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Read the poem aloud first, then let students answer on their own. Use the answer key to check, and ask students to read the lines they quoted aloud.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Explain how line length and the turn shape Whitman's poem about a learned astronomer. The directions on the page read: Read the poem, the note and the glossary. Then circle the best answer for 1 and 2. An answer key is included.
Can I use this poetry comprehension worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade poetry, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.
How many poetry worksheets are there?
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There are 10, and all have answer keys.
Do students quote the poem?
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Yes. Many questions ask students to quote lines, using the stanza and line numbers printed beside the poem.
Which poets appear?
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They include Georgia Douglas Johnson, Yeats, Whitman, Tennyson, Carroll, Frost and Teasdale.
Do the poems come with help?
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Many print a short note and a glossary of harder words, and line numbers appear beside each poem.
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