Writing poetry gives pupils the chance to explore feelings, develop descriptive language and practise choosing words carefully. With this KS2 poetry resource pack, pupils can write their own poems about emotions, using similes to create vivid images.
They'll start by reading two WAGOLL model texts demonstrating how to describe emotions with similes and carefully chosen verbs. Pupils then plan and write their own poems, applying these techniques to their chosen emotion.
Similes are a type of figurative language that compare one thing to another using like or as. They help readers picture emotions and experiences, for example: Cruel words fire from my mouth like bullets from a machine gun; Mum’s smile was as wide as the ocean; Tears rush like a waterfall down my face.
Pupils will also learn to select precise verbs using synonyms to make their writing more expressive.
What’s included
- Simile poem model text: Anger
A WAGOLL poem showing how to describe anger with similes and action verbs. Pupils can see how the author uses present tense, descriptive verbs and figurative language to convey feelings vividly. - Simile poem model text: Pride
A WAGOLL poem illustrating pride, showing how similes and carefully chosen verbs bring the emotion to life. - Simile poem writing sheet
Contains success criteria for using similes, creating titles and selecting verbs using synonyms. - Simile poem planning sheet
A worksheet for pupils to note their ideas, record potential similes and explore synonyms for verbs before writing their poem. - Emotions cards
Word cards listing abstract nouns for feelings and emotions. Pupils can use these to choose the theme for their own poem. - Themed writing paper
Sheets for pupils to present their final poems neatly. - Teacher notes
Guidance on using the resource in the classroom and linking it to English lessons.
Curriculum links
Years 3-4: Plan writing by discussing and recording ideas, then draft sentences orally before writing.
Years 5-6: Develop initial ideas, compose poems using descriptive language and similes, and evaluate and edit work to improve impact.
This resource gives pupils a structured yet creative framework to write poetry about emotions, practise figurative language and choose verbs carefully to enhance meaning.