Inspire Pupils to Write Poetry

Say "poetry" to a class and some pupils will think of something old, difficult and not meant for them. Quite a few adults feel the same about writing it, teachers included.

There are plenty of ways in. Start with the poetry pupils already like, from song lyrics and rap to adverts, and let them borrow a style they love, or mimic one they can't stand, to get words on the page. Write together as a class so nobody's poem is on the line, and make short, fast free writing a regular habit. When pupils share their poems, peer feedback can focus on how a poem made someone feel rather than whether it's any good.

The biggest shift comes when you write alongside them. Having a go when you're not sure it'll work shows pupils exactly what you're asking of them.