Slam Poetry Examples to Inspire Young Minds

Slam poetry, a dynamic fusion of performance and verse, has the power to captivate and inspire students. This genre captivates audiences by addressing significant themes such as education, friendship, equality, and self-reflection. Integrating slam poetry examples into the classroom not only enhances literary appreciation but also fosters self-expression and critical thinking.

In this comprehensive guide, we delve into impactful slam poetry examples and interactive activities to immerse learners in this vibrant art form.​

What is Slam Poetry?

Slam poetry is a form of performance poetry created in the 1980s by Marc Smith in Chicago. Unlike traditional written verse, slam poetry is meant to be performed aloud, with energy, emotion, and presence.

What is slam poetry?

Download this visual worksheet for your students to explore slam poetry!

Key Characteristics of Slam Poetry:

• Performance-Based: Unlike traditional poetry, slam poetry is written with performance in mind, emphasizing tone, pace, and body language.​
• Personal and Political: Poems often reflect personal experiences or address societal issues, aiming to provoke thought and evoke emotions.​
• Audience Engagement: The audience plays a crucial role, often serving as judges in competitions and reacting vocally during performances.​
• Free Verse Form: Slam poems typically utilize free verse, allowing poets flexibility in structure and rhythm to enhance their message.

Slam poetry is an excellent way for students to develop their writing skills, practice public speaking, and explore social issues in a safe, creative space.

15 Slam Poetry Examples

Here are 15 powerful slam poems perfect for classroom discussion. Each offers meaningful themes and strong delivery — ideal for sparking dialogue and student creativity.

1. OCD by Neil Hilborn

Excerpt:

“The first time I saw her,
everything in my head went quiet.
All the tics, all the constantly refreshing images just disappeared.
When you have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder,
you don’t really get quiet moments.
Even in bed, I’m thinking:
Did I lock the doors? Yes.
Did I wash my hands? Yes.
Did I lock the doors? Yes.
But when I saw her,
the only thing I could think about
was the hairpin curve of her lips…”

Themes: Mental health, love, personal struggle.

A raw and rhythmic portrayal of living with OCD. The repetition mirrors compulsions, making it an incredible piece to discuss both form and feeling.

OCD by Neil Hilborn

Download this worksheet for engaging learning today!

2. Explaining My Depression to My Mother by Sabrina Benaim

Excerpt:

“Mom, my depression is a shapeshifter.
One day it’s as small as a firefly in the palm of a bear,
The next, it’s the bear.
On those days, I play dead until the bear leaves me alone.
I call the bad days: “the Dark Days”
Mom says, “Try lighting candles”
When I see a candle, I see the flesh of a church, the flicker of a flame,
Sparks of a memory younger than noon.
I am standing beside her open casket.
It is the moment I learn every person I ever come to know will someday die.
Besides Mon, I’m not afraid of the dark.
Perhaps, that’s part of the problem.
Mom says, “I thought the problem was that you can’t get out of bed.”
I can’t.
…”

Themes: Mental health, family relationships, communication

This poem captures the frustration of trying to explain mental illness to someone who doesn’t understand. Benaim uses vivid metaphors to communicate the invisible weight of depression — relatable for students struggling with emotional expression.

Explaining my depression to my mother by Sabrina Benaim

Download this worksheet to bring slam poetry into your classroom!

3. Shrinking Women by Lily Myers

Excerpt:

“Across from me at the kitchen table,
my mother smiles over red wine she drinks out of a measuring glass.
She says she doesn’t deprive herself,
but I’ve learned to find nuance in every movement of her fork.
in every crinkle in her brow as she offers me the uneaten pieces on her plate.
I’ve realized she only eats dinner when I suggest it.
I wonder what she does when I’m not there to do so.

Maybe this is why my house feels bigger each time I return; it’s proportional.
As she shrinks the space around her seems increasingly vast.
She wanes while my father waxes. His stomach has grown round with wine,
late nights, oysters, poetry. A new girlfriend who was overweight as a
teenager, but my dad reports that now she’s ‘crazy about fruit.’
…”

Themes: Gender roles, family dynamics, body image

Myers unpacks how women are often raised to shrink — in voice, body, and presence. With a personal yet universal tone, the poem highlights the everyday ways patriarchy manifests in families, making it powerful for classroom gender discussions.

Shrinking Women by Lily Myers

Download this worksheet to explore gender roles through slam poetry!

4. Hair by Elizabeth Acevedo

Excerpt:

“They say Dominicans can do the best hair.
I mean they wash, set, flatten the spring in any lock
but what they mean is we’re the best at swallowing Amnesia,
in a cup of morisoñando, die dreaming because we’d rather do that than live in this reality, caught between orange juice and milk,
between reflections of the sun and whiteness.
What they mean is, ‘Why would you date a black man?’
What they mean is, ‘a prieto cocolo’
What they mean is, ‘Why would two oppressed people come together? It’s two times the trouble.’
What they really mean is, ‘Have you thought of your daughter’s hair?’
And I don’t tell them that we love like sugar cane, brown skin, pale flesh, meshed in pure sweetness.”

Themes: Cultural identity, beauty standards, internalized racism

In “Hair,” Elizabeth Acevedo uses hair as a metaphor to explore cultural identity, colorism, and generational bias within the Dominican community. The poem challenges Eurocentric beauty standards while celebrating Afro-Latinx heritage and self-love.

Hair by Elizabeth Acevedo

Download this worksheet to help students engage deeply with themes of identity, voice, and cultural expression.

5. “Mathematical Blues” by Nikoli

Excerpt:

“I’ve got the Mathematical Blues
I’ve been serving time for this so-called crime of being a kid
I’ve been locked in this room for 6 hours a day and 8 years total of hard labor
I want my mind to be free but instead I’m stuck in Geometry

The teaching staff will feel my wrath
for taking me down the wrong math path
I want to fly
not to divide and multiply.
…”

Themes: Education, self-expression, creativity, traditional learning systems

In “Mathematical Blues,” Nikoli humorously and powerfully expresses the frustration of feeling trapped in a rigid education system. Using math as a metaphor for confinement, the poem voices a student’s longing to break free from academic pressure and pursue creativity and individuality.

Mathematical Blues by Nikoli

Download this worksheet to inspire your students to write their own slam poems about real-life experiences.

6. Like Totally Whatever by Melissa Lozada-Oliva

Excerpt:

“In case you haven’t realized it has somehow become necessary for old white men to tell me how to speak
They like, interrupt a conversation that isn’t even theirs, and are like ‘speak like you mean it’ and like ‘the internet is ruining the English language.’

And they like, put my ‘parentheticals,’ my ‘likes’ and ‘ums’, and ‘you know’ on a wait list.

Tell them no one will take them seriously in a frilly pink dress. Or that make-up.
Tell them they have a confidence problem. That they should learn to speak up, like the hyper-masculine words were always the first to raise their hands.

Declarative sentences, so-called, because they declared themselves to be the loudest, most truest, most taking up the most space, most totally while man sentences.
Have always told me that being angry has never helped like, anybody.
Has only gotten in the way of helping them declare more about how they’ll never be forgotten like, ever.

…”

Themes: Speech, self-expression, feminism

This piece humorously exposes how women, especially young ones, are often taught to undermine their intelligence through tone. It’s a relatable critique for students navigating how to “speak up” in a world that often penalizes assertiveness.

Like Totally Whatever by Melissa Lozada-Oliva

Download this engaging worksheet for exciting learning about slam poetry now!

7. Touchscreen by Marshall Davis Jones

Excerpt:

“Introducing the new Apple iPerson
complete with multitouch and volume control
doesn’t it feel good to touch?
doesn’t it feel good to touch?
doesn’t it feel good to touch?

My world is so digital
that I have forgotten what that feels like;
it used to be hard to connect when friends formed cliques
but it’s even more difficult to connect now that clicks form friends,
But who am I to judge?
I face Facebook
more than books face me
hoping to
book face-to-face.

…”

Themes: Technology, disconnection, identity

Jones reflects on how digital communication has distanced us from real human connection. This poem is an excellent conversation starter on tech and teens, encouraging critical thought on screen time, relationships, and presence.

Touchscreen by Marshall Davis Jones

Bring modern poetry into your classroom—download this engaging slam poem!

8. The Type by Sarah Kay

Excerpt:

“If you grow up the type of woman men want to look at,
you can let them look at you.

Do not mistake eyes for hands.
Or windows. Or mirrors.

Let them see what a woman looks like.
They may not have ever seen one before.

If you grow up the type of woman men want to touch,
you can let them touch you.

Sometimes it is not you they are reaching for.
Sometimes it is a bottle. A door. A sandwich.

…”

Themes: Self-love, empowerment, relationships

Kay delivers a heartfelt message to young women about love, dignity, and emotional independence. It’s beautifully poetic while offering real-life advice — a piece every young girl (and boy) should hear and reflect on.

The Type by Sarah Kay

Download this worksheet to inspire discussions on self-identity and empowerment through slam poetry!

9. Fight For Love by Andrea Gibson

Excerpt:

“…

Thank you for saying there’s no need
to open our relationship because being with me
is already like being with fifty
impossible people. Thank you for accepting
my friend request for the fifth time this year.

Thank you for screaming
all the way home from that straight bar
to the bed where our bodies made up
while the full moon flew through to the window,
and a firefly poured into the room
and landed in your hand, which you opened
like a ring box and asked me to marry you,
and we were so new, I blushed
instead of answered.

…”

Themes: Love, identity, relationships, emotion

In “Fight for Love,” Andrea Gibson captures the raw beauty and complexity of queer love through intimate snapshots of conflict, tenderness, and deep connection. The slam poem explores how love endures through vulnerability, missteps, and moments of magic, turning everyday gestures into profound declarations of commitment.

Fight for Love by Andrea Gibson

Download this worksheet to spark powerful reflection and discussion.

10. What Guys Look For in Girls by Savannah Brown

Excerpt:

“When I first learned that no one could ever love me more than me
a world of happiness previously unseen was discovered
because someone along the line of aging and scrutiny and time
I was taught to despite myself.

But I made sure I kept myself beautiful so someone would love me someday
so I could belong to someone someday
because that’s the most important thing a little girl could ever want, right?

…”

Themes: Feminism, teenage identity, self-worth.

Brown uses sarcasm and wit to reflect on unrealistic beauty standards and toxic dating expectations placed on young women. Her poem speaks directly to teenage girls trying to navigate who they are versus what society wants them to be.

What guys look for in girls by Savannah Brown

Grab this worksheet for engaging learning about slam poetry today!

11. Translated Disney by Diksha Bijlani

Excerpt:

“I am a descendant of a family of multilingual folk
who are synonymous to non-English speaking.
Who sent me to English school so I could be better than them,
Because speaking English in India is status
English in India is, ‘Look, I have a verbal Mercedes!’
English in India is sucking up to the colonialists,
but forgetting they left a long time ago.
The first time I dated a white guy,
I would sometimes let words from my native language
slip into a text out of reflex,
and he’d dismiss them as typos.”

Themes: language and identity, culture disconnection, racism.

In “Translated Disney,” Diksha Bijlani explores the deep ties between language, identity, and colonial legacy in modern India. Through personal anecdotes and sharp critique, the slam poem highlights how English is often seen as a symbol of status, while native languages are sidelined—even in intimate moments.

Translated Disney by Diksha Bijlani

Download this worksheet to to spark deep classroom conversations.

12. Somewhere in America by Belissa Escobedo, Rhiannon McGavin, and Zariya Allen

Excerpt:

“Here in Ameria, in every single state, they have a set of standards for every subject
A collection of lessons that the teacher’s required to teach by the end of the term
But the greatest lesson you’ll ever teach us will not come from your syllabus
The greatest lessons you will ever teach us, you will not even remember

You never told us what we weren’t allowed to say
We just learned how to hold our tongues
Now somewhere in America, there is a child holding a copy of “Catcher in the Rye” and there is a child holding a gun

…”

Themes: Education, censorship, rape culture, activism.

This team poem is a scathing critique of the American school system’s failure to teach the realities of modern society. The trio of young poets uses hard-hitting imagery to call for reform, activism, and empowerment through truth-telling.

Somewhere in America by Belissa Escobedo, Rhiannon McGavin, and Zariya Allen

Download this worksheet to spark critical discussions on social justice through slam poetry!

13. What Teachers Make by Taylor Mali

Excerpt:

“He says the problem with teachers is,
‘What’s a kid going to learn
from someone who decided his best option in life
was to become a teacher?’
He reminds the other dinner guests that it’s true
what they say about teachers:
‘Those who can, do; those who can’t, teach.
I decide to bite my tongue instead of his
and resist the temptation to remind the dinner guests
that it’s also true what they say about lawyers.
Because we’re eating, after all, and this is polite conversation.

…”

Themes: Education, respect for teachers, societal values​

In this passionate performance, Mali defends the teaching profession against common stereotypes and undervaluation. He emphasizes the profound impact teachers have on shaping lives, challenging the notion that teaching is a fallback career. The poem resonates with educators and students alike, highlighting the dedication and influence of teachers.

What Teachers Make by Taylor Mali

Download this resource to inspire discussions on the value of teachers and education through slam poetry!

14. Pocket-Sized Feminism by Blythe Baird

Excerpt:

“The only other girl at the party
is ranting about feminism. The audience:
a sea of rape jokes and snapbacks
and styrofoam cups and me. They gawk
at her mouth like it is a drain
clogged with too many opinions.
I shoot her an empathetic glance
and say nothing. This house is for wallpaper women. What good
is wallpaper that speaks?
I want to stand up, but if I do,
whose coffee table silence
will these boys rest their feet on?

…”

Themes: Feminism, personal trauma, societal expectations​

Baird’s poignant poem addresses the complexities of advocating for feminism while navigating personal experiences of trauma. She challenges accusations of selective activism by highlighting the pervasive and personal nature of gender-based violence. The raw honesty and vulnerability in her performance invite empathy and reflection from the audience.

Pocket-sized Feminism by Blythe Baird

Grab this slam poetry worksheet for engaging learning today!

15. What Kind Of Asian Are You by Alex Dang

Excerpt:

“So he said to me: ‘What kind of Asian are you?’
And I said back: ‘Well that’s a loaded question, what kind of Asian do you expect me to be?
Because any way slice that egg-roll I’m still pretty much what you want to see
I’ve played many a far east stereotype
Awkward math genius
Cold and calculated Kung-Fu expert
Assistant to ‘Dr Jones, you crazy!’
You want me to drive, how so?
I can give you Tokyo Drift, Jeremy Lin, Mario Kart, Tiger Woods and …”

Themes: racial Identity, generational sacrifice, racism, self-acceptance

This poem explores racial identity, microaggressions, and the struggle of balancing cultural heritage with assimilation. Alex Dang challenges stereotypes and reclaims his voice with pride, using slam poetry to turn a loaded question into a powerful statement of self-definition.

What kind of Asian are you? by Alex Dang

Download this worksheet to explore identity, culture, and stereotypes through slam poetry!

These examples not only demonstrate the variety and depth of slam poetry, but they also show how it can be a transformative tool in the classroom.

Fun Activities to Teach Slam Poetry for Students

Engaging students with slam poetry can be both educational and enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to introduce slam poetry:

1. Poetry Slam Showcase

Organize a classroom poetry slam where students perform their original poems or recite famous slam poems. This encourages public speaking skills and creative expression.

2. Collaborative Poem Writing

In groups, students write a collective poem on a chosen theme, promoting teamwork and diverse perspectives.

3. Analyzing Performance Techniques

Watch videos of slam poetry performances and discuss the delivery, body language, and emotion conveyed. This helps students understand the importance of performance in slam poetry.

4. Writing Workshops

Conduct workshops focusing on writing techniques, metaphors, and storytelling to enhance students’ poetry writing skills.

5. Exploring Themes

Have students choose themes relevant to their lives and write poems addressing these topics, fostering personal connection and reflection.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an example of slam poetry?

A classic example is “What Teachers Make” by Taylor Mali. It humorously defends the teaching profession with power and passion—perfect for classroom inspiration.

2. What are the 5 rules of slam poetry?

Slam poetry isn’t rigid, but most slams follow these common rules:

• Originality: Poems must be original works.
• Time Limit: Poets usually have a 3-minute limit.
• No Props: Only voice and body — no costumes, music, or props.
• No Music: Poems must be spoken word only.
• Judging by Audience or Panel: Scoring is based on content and performance.

3. How do you write a slam poem?

To write a slam poem:

• Choose a powerful topic that matters to you (e.g., identity, bullying, love, social justice).
• Use personal stories or relatable perspectives.
• Write in free verse — rhyme if it feels natural.
• Read aloud often while writing to shape the flow and rhythm.
• Add emotion and pauses — delivery is as vital as words.

Tip: Watch live slam performances or use printable worksheets (like those on Worksheetzone) to guide the process.

4. What is a good topic for a slam poem?

Great slam poetry topics often reflect strong emotions or social relevance. Some ideas include:

• Mental health awareness
• Racial identity
• Bullying and school pressure
• Feminism and body image
• Friendship, love, or heartbreak
• Immigration stories
• Technology and disconnection

The best topics are ones students are passionate about — when they care, their voices shine.

Final Thoughts

Slam poetry is an expressive art form that resonates with audiences of all ages. The notable examples discussed illuminate important themes that are relevant in contemporary society. With the right slam poetry examples, creative writing prompts, and fun classroom activities, teachers can help students explore big ideas and their own identities in a safe, expressive space.

Want to go further? Try printable poetry worksheets and structured activities at Worksheetzone to bring the magic of spoken word into your classroom!