Man on a horse wrangling in cows

Cowboy Poetry is designed to teach you how to write original poetry. You will learn about the basic rhyme patterns used in most poetry, some of the classic cowboy poems from the old masters, the basics of meter and rhythm and “free verse.” This project is designed to provide another way to practice public presentation skills, develop a greater appreciation for local history and everyday life and give opportunities to write an oral history of family and experiences in 4-H. 

To complete this project, set goals and record project highlights in Montana 4-H record forms, write at least three original poems composed of at least four-line stanzas and demonstrate a specific rhyme pattern in original verse. The member manual also lists other activities to make your experiences rewarding—from performing at local events to locating cowboy poetry in your local library and on the internet.

 

Projects to learn

This project is self-paced to learn at your own pace. There are no “levels” in this project and you can re-enroll as often as you would like.

 

Materials you'll need

M Spurrin’ the Words, Member Manual, 5308
L Spurring the Words, Leader’s Guide, 5309

 

Non-Animal Record Books

A Project/Financial Journal is needed for each non-animal related project. Project journals need to contain the name of the project, the year these records were kept, and a leader/parent signature. All sections of the journal need to be completed. If nothing was done in an area or section of a record sheet, the word “none” or something similar should be written. 

Download record book sheet

 

Careers in Poetry

If you are wanting to explore careers in beef, below are some of the potential routes you can take. 4-H members interested in going to college can also visit the 4-H foundation website for scholarships in their county or reservation.

  • Writers and Authors
  • Editors
  • News Analysts, Reporters and Journalists
  • Technical Writers