Poetry

Wondering how to teach the types of poetry? When you include a variety of genres, you can also hit different literature and language skills. My favorites include rhyming, limericks, diamante,…

Teaching acrostic poetry? It spells one or more word vertically. While this usually occurs with the first letter of each verse, it can also happen in the middle or at…

Teaching concrete poetry? It takes the shape of the topic. Also known as shape poems, these simple word arrangements make easy projects for kids. Surprising, this type of literature has…

Teaching haiku? This traditional Japanese poetry consists of three verses of seventeen syllables. It has a 5-7-5 syllable pattern. When teaching this type of poem to kids, focus on nature…

Teaching cinquain? This five-verse poem has 22 syllables. Actually, any poem with five lines can be called a cinquain. However, Americans often use the version popularized by Adelaide Crapsey. Its…

Teaching diamante? These seven-lined poems make diamond shapes. Instead of rhythm and rhyme, they focus on careful word choice. Kids select specific parts of speech that move the audience from…

Teaching limericks? These silly poems have only five verses. Because they have predictable rhythm and rhyme, they’re perfect for students in fourth and fifth grades. Your kids will love them!…

Thinking about teaching rhyming poetry? It’s the perfect starting point. Once they understand simple couplets, they can also write their own. After that, we move to more difficult rhyme schemes.…

Elements of poetry are fun and easy to teach. Start with key vocabulary. Then analyze some kid-friendly poems. Finally, ask students to memorize with poetry blackout and write some poems…