Poetry Workshop
To develop appreciation of poetic language and begin writing poems using pattern and rhythm.
- Framework: EYFS
- Unit: EYFS Literacy
- Learning area: Literacy
- Level: EYFS Reception
Objectives
- Performs poems expressively
- Writes simple pattern poems
- Uses vivid vocabulary choices
- Responds to poems with genuine feeling
Materials
- Collection of age-appropriate poetry books
- Performance props (microphone, spotlight)
- Pattern poem templates
- Rhyming dictionaries for young children
Instructions
Build a class poetry collection throughout the year. Begin each morning with a shared poem read aloud. Read the same poem for a week — children gradually learn it by heart and performance becomes possible.
Teach children to 'perform' poetry: 'Poems are meant to be said OUT LOUD. We can whisper some parts, shout others. We can use our bodies. Let's practise performing this poem.' The performative approach changes children's relationship with text.
Use simple pattern poems as the framework for children's own writing: 'I like... [rhyming word].' or colour poems: 'Red is... orange is... blue is...' The pattern removes the organisational burden and lets children focus on vocabulary.
Explore onomatopoeia playfully: 'Some words sound like what they mean! CRASH. BANG. HISS. SPLAT. Listen — you can HEAR the crash in the word CRASH!' Let children generate their own onomatopoeia.
Teach that poems don't have to rhyme: 'Not all poems rhyme. Some poems just use beautiful words and pictures. Like this one — 'the snowflake fell / like a tiny star / dancing through the cold grey sky.' No rhyme — but beautiful!' This frees children from forced rhyming.
Publish a class poetry anthology. Children choose one poem they've written, illustrate it, and it's bound into the class book. This is kept in the book corner and read regularly — an enormous source of pride.