Poetry helps young children play with words and discover how language can create strong pictures in the mind. With this KS1 list poem resource pack, you can introduce pupils to the simple structure of a list poem, share a WAGOLL (what a good one looks like) and support them in planning, drafting and presenting poems of their own.
A list poem collects ideas around a theme. It does not need to rhyme or follow a set rhythm, which makes it perfect for younger writers who are just beginning to explore poetry.
By using adjectives and expanded noun phrases, children can make their lists more imaginative and descriptive. This pack focuses on the theme of dreaming, giving pupils the chance to imagine adventures, magical creatures or exciting places they might visit in their sleep.
Model text included
The WAGOLL in this pack is called Dreaming. It begins with an opening line about going on magical adventures, then lists dream experiences such as riding unicorns, finding treasure with pirates, zooming to the moon, swimming in the sea and meeting fairies. The poem ends by wishing the dreams would never end.
This clear model shows pupils how to structure their own writing and inspires them to build their own dream lists.
What’s included in the pack
- List poem writing sheet with success criteria and examples of adjectives for colour, size and texture
- List poem ideas sheet for pupils to sketch or jot down dream images and words
- List poem writing plan where children can record up to eight dream ideas before writing
- Themed writing paper with two versions: one lined with a border and one with the opening and closing lines already included for extra support
Curriculum links
This pack supports reading and writing poetry in Years 1 and 2. Pupils can enjoy listening to and discussing a wide range of poems, then apply what they learn by creating their own. They can practise composing sentences out loud before writing, use adjectives to expand noun phrases and develop stamina for writing by producing longer pieces.
With these resources, you can celebrate National Poetry Day in October and help children experience the fun of writing poetry that is creative, personal and memorable.
Read more about teaching poetic techniques.