Listening to the Art of Joan Miro – Onomatopoeia Style

When we teach students about the varied uses and understanding of onomatopoeia, our approach to learning is often a traditional one. It is expected and necessary to teach the proper definition of onomatopoeia, which is the formation of a word from a sound associated with what is named (e.g. woof, chirp, sizzle, tweet), and to give traditional examples of usage (e.g. nursery rhymes, poems, and jokes).  Further, students must learn to pronounce this quirky word, and they even may inquire about the origins of their newest vocabulary feat (the Greeks).  Without a doubt, most would teach a lesson about onomatopoeia, by allowing students the joy of practicing its many uses individually or in groups.  However, it is at this point, where I would bring forth the “Carnival of Harlequin,” by Joan Miro, as there is a slice of synaesthesia as well as onomatopoeia in this lesson about “Listening to the Art of Miro.” 

It is my belief, that the most important reason for teaching onomatopoeia is so that children understand why it is they are giddy, delighted, and amused when their parents read nursery rhymes, poetry, or comics aloud to them.  By showing students the art of Joan Miro (via Internet or poster), one can easily ask “What sounds do you hear when you look at this picture?”  The discussion that follows will amaze you!  Afterwards, play a CD of comic book style sounds, for a couple of minutes.  Ask students to discuss which sounds match the differing shapes and colors of Miro’s work.  Next, allow students to work individually or in groups to create a storyline that stems from “Carnival.”  As they work to create their story, encourage the use of onomatopoetic language to describe the setting or the introductory sentences, the climax or conclusion.  This narrative need not be lengthy; the focus is on descriptive language that revolves around the sense of sound.  To take the lesson step further, students could record their stories using the sounds manufactured by their new, sensory descriptions.

The sense of sound, in itself, will prompt incredibly wild imaginings by your students.