This pack contains a number of resources to inspire pupils to write cinquains with a Christmas theme. Pupils can explore the two model poems on the themes of ‘Presents’ and ‘Crackers’ to explore the structure of this poetic form.
The resources could be used to engage pupils in seasonal writing tasks at the end of the autumn term. The writing and ideas sheets could also be used if writing cinquains based on any topic.
What is a cinquain?
A cinquain (pronounced sin-kane) is a poem of five lines and was created by an American poet. It has a set number of syllables per line.
Line 1: 2 syllables
Line 2: 4 syllables
Line 3: 6 syllables
Line 5: 8 syllables
Line 5: 2 syllables
Cinquains often follow a similar structure for what is included on each line.
Line 1: The subject of the poem
Line 2: Words to describe it (often adjectives)
Line 3: An action the subject does or a further description of it
Line 4: A feeling
Line 5: A conclusion, often a word that is the synonym of the subject
What is included in this poetry resource pack?
Model text: Gift - a cinquain with a Christmas theme to explore with pupils
Model text: Crackers - a cinquain with a Christmas theme to explore with pupils
Cinquain poster - a PDF poster to display the features of a cinquain.
Cinquain writing sheet - this contains success criteria for writing poems that follow the structure of a cinquain; explanations of syllables and adjectives are included
Christmas word cards - a set of word cards with festive words that pupils could base their cinquains on
Cinquain ideas sheet - this worksheet allows pupils to note ideas for their poem, collecting words and phrases that could be used when writing
Themed writing paper - the writing paper can be used for pupils to present their work
National Curriculum English programme of study links
Year 3 / 4
Pupils should be taught to plan their writing by discussing writing similar to that which they are planning to write in order to learn from its structure, vocabulary and grammar
Year 5 / 6
Pupils should be taught to plan their writing by
- identifying the audience for and purpose of the writing, selecting the appropriate form and using other similar writing as models for their own
- noting and developing initial ideas, drawing on reading and research where necessary