Poems with Lois Letchford and Matthew: Homework, Oh, Homework. -Jack Prelutsky

10 Nov 2020 · 2 min

Watch on YouTube

1:35

In this brief YouTube segment, educator and author Lois Letchford introduces herself as the writer of Reversed: A Memoir and a literacy problem‑solver, then invites her student Matthew to read poem #2 from Jack Prelutsky’s collection. Matthew delivers an animated, expressive rendition of Prelutsky’s poem “Homework, Oh Homework,” voicing exaggerated disgust and humorous hyperbole about school assignments. After his performance, Lois praises his enthusiasm, noting the poem as a favorite and reinforcing the positive classroom atmosphere. The clip showcases a literacy‑focused activity that uses poetry to engage students, highlight emotional expression, and model supportive adult feedback.

Hello, I'm Lois Letchford, author of the book Reversed: A Memoir and literacy problem solver, sharing my students reading poems for you today. This is poem number 2. Matthew, over to you.
Homework, oh homework, homework, oh homework, I hate you, you stink, I can't— I wish I can wash you away in the sink. If only a bomb would explode you into bits. Homework, oh homework, you give me the fits. I'd rather take a bath with a man-eating shark, arrest a lion alone in the dark, eat spinach or liver, pet 10 porcupines, than tackle the homework that my teacher assigned. Ugh, disgusting. Homework, oh homework, you are last on my list. I simply can't see why you even exist. I— if you just disappear, it would tickle me pink. Homework, oh homework, I hate you. You stink!
Fantastic! I know why that is your favourite poem. Homework, oh homework, I hate you, you stink! Well done, Matthew!
Thank you.