How is architecture like writing?

Rick Wormeli, in his thought provoking book, Metaphors and Analogies, encourages teachers to frequently weave analogies into instruction. Analogies help students make connections with prior knowledge and paint a visual image that strengthens retention. 

My co-teachers and I have decided to use an architectural analogy to teach students the various text structures they will encounter throughout the year. Our introductory lesson began by giving them blueprints to explore. 

We then created a Venn Diagram to compare architecture to written text (both have plans, both have purposes that determine structure.) 

Next students examined a variety of photos showing buildings with interesting architecture. They were asked to choose a building whose structure represented the structure of a poem (and then a story, an opinion piece, etc.) and be prepared to justify their thinking. Some students struggled but we encouraged them to work with a partner and develop their rationale. We made it clear that there was not a correct answer, as long as they could justify their thinking.

One student chose this photo to represent the structure of a fictional story because of all the twists and turns and unexpected surprises usually found in a good story.

Try it yourself! Which of the following buildings would you to choose to compare to the structure of a poem? Why?