Poetry Break #2: Picture Book

Introduction

Here are the words to this ALA Notable Childrens book (2003). Young children will love the melodic repetition this book contains.  Before reciting the book in poem form, have children make craft instruments to tap while reading the chorus!

Rap A Tap Tap: Here's Bojangles-Think of That!

There once was a man who danced in the street

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

He brought pleasure and joy to the people he'd greet!

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

He danced past doors; some open, some close

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

He danced past folks in fairy clothes

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

He danced through a place called the skids

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

He danced through crowds of laughing kids.

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

His feet fairly flew as he tipped his hat

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

He briefly paused to pat an old cat

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

He danced rain or shine, in all kinds of weather

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

People listened each day for his toe-tapping clatter.

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

He danced many rhythms that were seldom the same

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

Dance was his passion, and it brought him fame.

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

Bojangles, Bojangles, that as his name.

Rap a tap tap-think of that!

Extension

Have children create their own rhythms and dances accompanied by the instruments they make. Encourage them to be creative and use their talents like Bojangles. Afterwards, host a mini performance!

Dillon, Leo & Diane. 2002. Rap a tap tap: here's bojangles-think of that. Blue Sky Press. New York: 0590478834