This poetry resource pack helps pupils explore and write Christmas-themed cinquains. At the heart of the pack are two WAGOLL model poems, A Gift and Crackers. These demonstrate the structure, syllable count and poetic techniques featured in a cinquain.
Pupils can analyse these examples to understand how to use adjectives, descriptive phrases, actions, feelings and conclusions to create their own festive poems.
What are cinquains?
Cinquains are five-line poems with a specific syllable structure: 2, 4, 6, 8, 2. Each line has a clear role: the first line introduces the subject, the second uses adjectives to describe it, the third and fourth expand on the subject with actions or feelings, and the final line provides a conclusion, often a synonym or summarising word.
Pupils can use this pack to learn the format, practise planning and create imaginative poetry, either with a Christmas theme or on any topic.
Resource contents
- WAGOLL model poem – A Gift: A festive cinquain that illustrates the five-line structure, syllable pattern and use of adjectives, descriptive phrases and a concluding synonym.
- WAGOLL model poem – Crackers: Another Christmas-themed cinquain demonstrating the same structure and poetic techniques, with a focus on festive action and atmosphere.
- Cinquain poster: A display poster summarising the features and structure of a cinquain for easy reference.
- Cinquain writing sheet: Outlines success criteria, explains syllable counts and gives guidance on using adjectives and descriptive language.
- Christmas word cards: Provide pupils with a bank of seasonal words to inspire their own cinquains.
- Cinquain ideas sheet: Allows pupils to collect words, phrases and ideas before drafting their poems.
- Themed writing paper: Enables pupils to present their finished cinquains attractively.
How to use the pack
Pupils explore the WAGOLLs to identify structure, syllables and descriptive techniques. They then plan their own cinquains using the ideas sheet and word cards, draft poems on the writing sheet and present their work on the themed paper.
National Curriculum links
- Years 3–4: Plan writing by discussing and learning from model texts, exploring structure, vocabulary and grammar.
- Years 5–6: Identify the audience and purpose of writing, select an appropriate form and draw on other texts as models when developing ideas and drafting poetry.
This pack gives pupils clear examples of high-quality cinquains and structured resources to support creative, confident, and festive poetry writing.
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