Roses are red

Violets are blue

We love poetry

And hope you do too!

Okay, so maybe that’s not an award-winning poem, but it’s a start to National Poetry Month.

Take advantage of this special time set aside for appreciating the written word by having your students write their own poem. Here are a couple tips to get you started:

Step 1: Read aloud – Provide your students with some poetic inspiration. Whether you read them Dr. Seuss, Shel Silverstein, or one of our poems, students need some engaging motivation to get started. Here are a few poems straight from the Learning Without Tears teacher’s guides:

Creative: Flounder poem

Creative: Elephant poem

Step 2: Use the right tools – Our Writing Journals offer ample space with Learning Without Tears double lines for students to jot down their haikus or free style poems! Our Building Writers student editionss offer more structured opportunities for writing practice. 

Step 3: Put on some music – Music gets the creative juices flowing! Whether you choose calming classical compositions or one of our upbeat music albums, some background music creates a fun and focused atmosphere for students to create their work.

Step 4: Illustrate – Have your future poets draw a picture to illustrate their poem. This is especially helpful for visual learners. Don’t forget to use little crayons to promote proper grip!

Step 5: Stage a mini “open mic” – Ask your children if they want to share their poem and/or drawing with the rest of the class. Having your students read poetry aloud gives you the opportunity to explain that rhythm and meter are important components of a poem.