Cypher Speaks uses creative writing and spoken word to help kids develop a greater sense of value for themselves, a greater sense of respect for others, and a greater sense of responsibility for how they impact the world. Beyond these values, Cypher Speaks offers the added benefit of increased literacy, social intelligence, and confidence in public speaking. We use several interactive activities, icebreakers, and games each day to engage the students. Cypher Speaks utilizes acting technics, role play, and public speaking exercises in order to help the students get over their shyness and improve their speaking abilities. We introduce students to both classic and contemporary works of poetry while teaching them to understand and use the tools of poetry and literary analysis to a degree appropriate to their grade level. Our poetry reading and writing prompts help students to read more critically and write more thoughtfully. Through all this, we seek to see kids build the confidence to purposefully steer their own lives, and the courage to share their story— because words matter; speak responsibly.
Language is powerful, stories are meaningful, and words matter. We’ve seen more clearly in this generation than ever before that language, and the way we communicate, are able to greatly impact the way we view ourselves and how we’re able to understand the world around us. Studies show that kids who read poetry in their free time are 1.5 times more likely to enjoy reading in general, to read daily, and to see themselves as good readers. Students who write poetry in their free time are twice as likely to enjoy writing, write daily, and see themselves as good writers. Overall, students who engage with poetry in their free time have shown to be 1.7 times more likely to have aspirations for higher education, and 1.5 times more likely to engage in community service. Overall, the workshops are extremely beneficial and help to promote individual leadership, self-confidence and self-development. This program not only empowers students, it prepares them for the future.
Cypher Speaks aligns with the following common core standards:
L.3, L.4, L.5, L.6, L.7, L.8,
RF.3, RF. 4, RF.5,
RL.3, RL.4, RL.5, RL.6, RL.7, RL.8,
SL.3, SL.4, SL.5, SL.6, SL.7, SL.8,
W.3, W.4, W.5, W.6, W.7, W.8