Description
This lesson and activity invites students to write their own original poems while making poetry writing fun, creative, and accessible for middle school ELA students in 6th, 7th, 8th, or 9th grade.
Students are given choice and ownership throughout the process. They begin by learning about five different types of poems, then select three of the five they would like to write. This choice-based structure increases engagement and allows students to play to their strengths while still exploring new poetic forms.
Students draft their poems in a guided packet that supports brainstorming and revision before creating polished final drafts on blank paper. These final pieces double as beautiful classroom wall art, making student work visible, celebrated, and meaningful.
This resource includes a PowerPoint presentation that introduces and explains the five poetry types with clear definitions and examples, including haiku, acrostic, concrete poetry, limerick, and free verse. You’ll also receive a student packet with directions, requirements, and examples for each poem type, along with an example final draft of a limerick with a colored illustration to model expectations.
Perfect for middle school and early high school ELA, this poetry writing unit blends structure with creativity, helping students gain confidence as poets while producing work they’re proud to display.