Ms. Underwood's Class Podcasts

Jasmine Walia & Natalie Kim | Poetry Analysis Project | Period 5

In this episode, hosts Jasmine Walia and Natalie Kim explore Elizabeth Acevedo's "Rat Ode," a poem that challenges societal perceptions of worth and beauty. They delve into Acevedo's poignant use of the rat as a metaphor for marginalized or overlooked individuals and entities. The hosts discuss how Acevedo's personal experiences and cultural background influenced her portrayal of the rat, transforming it from a commonly despised creature into a symbol of estranged beauty. The episode highlights the poem's vivid imagery, well-crafted repetitions, and the powerful message that every being, regardless of societal labels, is worthy of appreciation and love. Credits: Hosts: Jasmine Walia and Natalie Kim Poem: "Rat Ode" by Elizabeth Acevedo, available in various publications including First Daily Music: Background tracks provided by Breaking Copyright, Tom, Sunville Sounds, and Nomadic Ambience Research: Information about Elizabeth Acevedo sourced from Poetry Foundation, Acevedo Writes, Blue Flower Arts, and American Media Podcast Production: Created using SoundTrap

Karen Martinez & Micah Ramos | Poetry Analysis Project | Period 2

In this episode of "Unveiling Wisdom, The Journey to Inner Peace," hosts Karen Martinez and Micah Ramos explore the timeless relevance of Max Ehrmann's poem "Desiderata." The hosts delve into the poem's serene language and profound messages of peace, authenticity, and self-compassion, emphasizing its significance in today's fast-paced and often chaotic world. They discuss Ehrmann's masterful use of structure to mirror life's rhythm and his call to embrace life's joys amidst challenges. The episode offers listeners a reflective space to consider the importance of inner peace and the pursuit of happiness through the wisdom conveyed in "Desiderata." Credits: Hosts: Karen Martinez and Micah Ramos Poem: "Desiderata" by Max Ehrmann Music: Sourced from online libraries Research: Utilized desidorada.com, whileit.net, and upbeat.io for insights on Ehrmann's life and works Podcast Production: Created using SoundTrap

Lauren, Soli, & William | Poetry Analysis Project | Period 2

In this episode, Lauren, Soli, and William delve into Edgar Allan Poe's profound poem "Annabel Lee." They explore the intense, haunting themes of love and mortality that Poe masterfully weaves through vivid imagery and emotional depth. The hosts discuss how Poe's personal history, particularly the tragic loss of his wife Virginia, deeply influenced the themes of eternal love and sorrow that pervade the poem. They reflect on the way "Annabel Lee" portrays love as both a source of strength and a cause of enduring pain, capturing the bittersweet nature of Poe's most famous works. Credits: Hosts: Lauren, Soli, and William Poem: "Annabel Lee" by Edgar Allan Poe, available for reading on PoetryFoundation.org Music: Background tracks provided by GarageBand Podcast Production: Created using GarageBand

Isaac Taylor & Cisco | Poetry Analysis Project | Period 3

In this episode, hosts Isaac Taylor and Cisco explore Amanda Gorman's "The Hill We Climb," a poem that captures the essence of America's struggles and hopes. They discuss how Gorman's words at the 2021 Presidential Inauguration encapsulate a vision for a unified and resilient America, addressing the nation's collective challenges and aspirations. The discussion highlights the poem’s themes of unity, resilience, and progress, emphasizing the power of poetry to inspire and bring people together. Credits: Hosts: Isaac Taylor and Cisco Poem Discussed: "The Hill We Climb" by Amanda Gorman Production Tools: Created using SoundTrap Special Thanks: To our listeners for their engagement and encouragement, and to bensound.com for the background music.

Justin Cheong & Varun Karra | Poetry Analysis Project | Period 5

In this episode, hosts Justin Cheong and Varun Karra delve into Robert Frost's iconic poem, "The Road Not Taken." They explore the theme of decision-making and its significance in shaping one's life path. The hosts discuss how the poem resonates with their personal experiences and the pressures of academic excellence. They reflect on the poem's universal message about the impact of choices, big or small, and how these choices define our lives. The episode highlights Frost's masterful use of simple yet profound language to evoke a vivid imagery of life's crossroads. Credits: Hosts: Justin Cheong and Varun Karra Poem Discussed: "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost Production Tools: Created using SoundTrap Special Thanks: To our listeners for their engagement and support, and to bensound.com for the background music.