“First They Came” by Niemoller: Poem Summary Activity

Q: What is the message of the poem 'First They Came'?

'First They Came' is a poem about the dangers of staying silent in the face of injustice. The poet, Martin Niemoller, warns that failing to speak up for others can eventually lead to harm for everyone, including ourselves.

Q: How can students summarize 'First They Came' in their own words?

Students can summarize 'First They Came' by explaining that the poem describes how people ignored the persecution of others, only to realize too late that their silence allowed injustice to spread. The main idea is the importance of speaking out against wrongs, even if they don't affect you directly.

Q: What is a three cell storyboard for a poem summary?

A three cell storyboard is a visual organizer with three panels. For a poem summary, students draw three key scenes from the poem, each representing a main idea or turning point, and write a description for each cell.

Q: Why is 'First They Came' important to teach in middle school?

'First They Came' is important in middle school because it encourages students to think about empathy, responsibility, and the impact of their actions . It helps students discuss moral choices and the importance of standing up for others.

Q: What are some tips for illustrating the meaning of 'First They Came'?

To illustrate 'First They Came,' focus on key moments where people stay silent and the consequences that follow. Use expressions, settings, and symbols to show themes like isolation, regret, and courage .

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Lesson Plan Overview

Template and Class Instructions

Student Rubric

Lesson Plan Overview

When studying poetry, especially historical narratives, it can be helpful for students to understand the story of the poem. In this activity, students will write and illustrate a brief summary about what they think the poem means and what the poet is trying to say.

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Template and Class Instructions

(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)

Due Date:

Objective: Summarize the poem in your own words and illustrate it in a three cell storyboard.

Student Instructions:

Click "Start Assignment".
Illustrate the poem using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Write a summary in the description boxes.
Save and exit when you're done.

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Lesson Plan Reference

Grade Level 6-8

Difficulty Level 2 (Reinforcing / Developing)

Type of Assignment Individual

Type of Activity: Plot Diagrams and Narrative Arcs

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Student Rubric

(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)

Summary

	Proficient	Emerging	Beginning
Plot	Each of the cells represents a different part of the summary. The cells are in order from beginning to end. Sentences accurately summarize each part.	One cell is out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information.	Important information is missing and/or two or three cells are out of order.
Images	Cells include images that help summarize and do not get in the way of understanding.	Some of the images help summarize. Descriptions do not always match the images.	Images do not make sense with the summary.
Spelling and Grammar	Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding.	Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding.	Text is difficult to understand.

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Lesson Plan Overview

Copy Activity

Template and Class Instructions

(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)

Due Date:

Objective: Summarize the poem in your own words and illustrate it in a three cell storyboard.

Student Instructions:

Click "Start Assignment".
Illustrate the poem using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Write a summary in the description boxes.
Save and exit when you're done.

More options

Copy This Storyboard

Lesson Plan Reference

Grade Level 6-8

Difficulty Level 2 (Reinforcing / Developing)

Type of Assignment Individual

Type of Activity: Plot Diagrams and Narrative Arcs

Copy Activity

Student Rubric

(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)

Summary

	Proficient	Emerging	Beginning
Plot	Each of the cells represents a different part of the summary. The cells are in order from beginning to end. Sentences accurately summarize each part.	One cell is out of order, or the storyboard is missing important information.	Important information is missing and/or two or three cells are out of order.
Images	Cells include images that help summarize and do not get in the way of understanding.	Some of the images help summarize. Descriptions do not always match the images.	Images do not make sense with the summary.
Spelling and Grammar	Spelling and grammar is mostly accurate. Mistakes do not get in the way of understanding.	Spelling is very inaccurate and hinders full understanding.	Text is difficult to understand.

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How Tos about "First They Came" Poem Summary

Engage students in meaningful discussions about 'First They Came'

Foster active student participation by creating a safe and respectful environment for sharing ideas. Encourage every voice by setting clear expectations and using open-ended questions.

Prepare thought-provoking questions in advance

Write open-ended prompts that connect the poem to students’ lives or current events. Support critical thinking by asking 'Why do you think...' or 'How would you feel if...'

Use pair and share strategies to build confidence

Have students discuss their thoughts with a partner before sharing with the class. This helps quieter students organize ideas and feel more comfortable participating.

Model respectful listening and responses

Demonstrate active listening by paraphrasing student answers and valuing diverse perspectives. Remind students to listen carefully and respond kindly to each other.

Wrap up with a reflective group summary

Guide the class in summarizing the key discussion points. Highlight important themes and connect them back to the poem’s message, reinforcing understanding for all students.

Frequently Asked Questions about \"First They Came\" Poem Summary

What is the message of the poem 'First They Came'?

'First They Came' is a poem about the dangers of staying silent in the face of injustice. The poet, Martin Niemoller, warns that failing to speak up for others can eventually lead to harm for everyone, including ourselves.

How can students summarize 'First They Came' in their own words?

Students can summarize 'First They Came' by explaining that the poem describes how people ignored the persecution of others, only to realize too late that their silence allowed injustice to spread. The main idea is the importance of speaking out against wrongs, even if they don't affect you directly.

What is a three cell storyboard for a poem summary?

A three cell storyboard is a visual organizer with three panels. For a poem summary, students draw three key scenes from the poem, each representing a main idea or turning point, and write a description for each cell.

Why is 'First They Came' important to teach in middle school?

'First They Came' is important in middle school because it encourages students to think about empathy, responsibility, and the impact of their actions. It helps students discuss moral choices and the importance of standing up for others.

What are some tips for illustrating the meaning of 'First They Came'?

To illustrate 'First They Came,' focus on key moments where people stay silent and the consequences that follow. Use expressions, settings, and symbols to show themes like isolation, regret, and courage.