Friendly Poetry

Language Arts Activity

In this activity children will compile a list of the things they look for in a friend and use that information to create a simple poem. Using a familiar topic may make poetry a little less daunting for some children.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Pencils and paper
• Crayons, markers, or colored pencils

WHAT TO DO

1. On the chalkboard, brainstorm with children a list of characteristics that make a good friend. Then explain that these characteristics will be used to create a free-form class poem. You may want to write the following sample poem on the board to get the class started:

   
   			 Good Friends
   
   			A good friend
   			Plays with you, 
   			Laughs with you,
   			Shares with you,
   			Talks with you,
   			Listens to you,
   			And NEVER, 
   			NEVER,
   			NEVER, 
   			Tells your secrets
   			To anyone.
   

2. Have children create their free-form class poem using some of the characteristics from the brainstorming list. Encourage children to illustrate their poems.

TEACHING OPTIONS

• Display poems in a special section of your school or classroom and invite others to come and enjoy them.

• Set aside time for a class poetry reading where children can share their individual poems with one another, invited parents, and/or another class in your school.