Write a dialogue in which your future self speaks to your present self about the past. Speculate as to what you think you will know about life in the future that you do not know now.

Write a response to Strand's poem, taking the point of view of children giving advice to their parents. Read the poem to your class and then discuss it.

Interview at least six children under ten years of age, asking them to describe the advice their parents give to them. Categorize the responses and then write a short essay interpreting their significance.

On the board, brainstorm responses to the question, "What is the meaning of life?" Discuss responses.

Read the rest of the poems in Strand's collection, The Continuous Life, and in an essay describe how they are similar to and different from the title poem.

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