What Is a Shape Poem?

Shape poems (also known as concrete poems) are a type of poetry where the layout of the words on the page forms a shape or image that reflects the poem’s subject or theme. The visual appearance of the poem is as important as the words themselves, creating a blend of art and literature.

When it comes to engaging students in poetry writing, shape poems are a great choice. They allow learners to combine artistic creativity with writing skills. For beginners, these poems offer a fun way to experiment with form and can make poetry feel less daunting.

Here’s what you need to know when it comes to teaching your students how to write a shape poem:

• Purpose – Shape poems describe a particular topic.
• Structure – Shape poems are written in the shape of the object they describe.
• Rhythm – Shape poems have no distinct rhythm.
• Rhyme – Shape poems do not usually rhyme.

Easily Teach How to Write a Shape Poem

The Teach Starter team has created this set of templates to support your students in writing shape poems. Here’s what you will discover inside this shape poem template pack:

1. Shape Poem Overview – This page explains everything your students need to know about shape poems. It also includes an example shape poem about raindrops.
2. Shape Poem Graphic Organiser – This page supports students in brainstorming topics and vocabulary for their own shape poem.
3. Shape Poem Writing Sheet – This page has been included for students to produce a polished final copy of their shape poem.

Shape poems create an opportunity to blend creative writing with visual art. By engaging with this resource, your students will create a unique product of both written and artistic expression.

Download This Shape Poem Template

This resource downloads as an easy-print PDF or an editable Google Slides file. Use the Download button to access your preferred version of this resource. Please note that you will be prompted to make a copy of the Google Slides file before accessing it.

Brittany Collins, a Teach Starter collaborator, contributed to this resource.

More Resources for Exploring Forms of Poetry

Looking to introduce other forms of poetry to your students? Click below to explore more teacher-created, curriculum-aligned resources to use in your classroom.

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Types of Poetry Posters with Annotations

Use this set of 9 annotated posters when introducing structured forms of poetry to your students.

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Forms of Poetry Teaching Slides

Explore the different forms of poetry with your students using this comprehensive and age-appropriate slide deck.

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Write an Ode Worksheet

Set your students up for success when writing an ode with this set of scaffolded, easy-to-follow worksheets.