Shape Poems Lesson Plan: Teach Concrete Poetry Visually

ByDylan Callens

This Shape Poems lesson plan introduces concrete poetry by asking students to make the physical arrangement of words contribute to meaning. The goal is not simply to draw an outline and fill it with text; students consider how line length, spacing, repetition, and direction can reinforce the subject.

Learning Goals & Standards

Students will connect visual form to meaning, use imagery and precise diction, and explain how structural choices affect a poem. This supports CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.9-10.5, W.9-10.4, and W.9-10.5.

Materials & Preparation

  • Plain paper or drawing software
  • Pencils and erasers
  • Colored pencils or markers
  • Several teacher-created shape poem examples

Bell Ringer: What Shape Fits an Idea?

Give students abstract ideas such as speed, loneliness, growth, and confusion. Ask them to sketch a line or shape that could represent each idea without using words.

Mini-Lesson: Form Should Do Something

Explain that concrete poetry works best when the visual design adds meaning. A poem about falling might literally descend down the page; a poem about waves might use repeated rising and falling lines. Model how the same words can feel different depending on arrangement.

Student Work: Create a Shape Poem

Step 1: Choose a Concrete Subject

Students select an object, animal, place, or natural form with a recognizable shape.

Step 2: Brainstorm Language

Students collect sensory details, verbs, comparisons, and associations before drawing anything.

Step 3: Draft the Poem Normally

Students first write 10–16 strong lines so visual design does not replace quality writing.

Step 4: Plan the Layout

Students sketch how the words will form or suggest the subject.

Step 5: Create the Final Version

Students transfer the poem carefully and make at least one design choice that reinforces meaning.

Assessment & Exit Ticket

Assess both language and the relationship between form and meaning. Exit ticket: What visual choice in your poem adds the most meaning, and how?

Differentiation

Provide simple outline templates for students who need support with drawing. Advanced students can create a shape that changes or breaks apart as the poem develops.

First-Hand Suggestions for Teachers

I would insist on a rough text-only draft first. Otherwise, some students spend most of the period decorating and very little time writing. Once the words are strong, the visual element becomes much more meaningful.

Extend the Lesson

Display the poems without explanations and ask classmates to infer how visual choices contribute to meaning.

See more activities in the poetry games roundup.

Poetry games and activities from The Teachers' Blog Resources on Teachers Pay Teachers

Featured photo: Cinthya González via Unsplash.