Converting Poetry to Simple Prose using Persian Synonyms

This presentation discusses a pedagogical technique of substitution, whereby students convert classical or modern Persian poetry to simple prose using Persian synonyms. This technique enhances vocabulary, strengthens speaking and writing skills, and is especially beneficial at the intermediate level or above. Using this approach, students are asked to read a poem, convey its meaning in prose using Persian equivalents, summarize the poem’s highlights and present their own analysis. During the roundtable, we will also discuss the benefits of such a technique for advanced learners, heritage learners and in particular, how it can build awareness of language register.