This pack contains a number of resources to inspire pupils to write cinquains around the theme of music or the orchestra. Pupils can explore the two model poems on the themes of musical instruments and the garden to explore the structure of these poetic forms.
The resources could be used to engage pupils when writing this poetic form, exploring the same theme of the model poems or linking the theme to the current topic or interests of your class. The writing and ideas sheets can be used when writing cinquains based on any topic.
What is included in this poetry resource pack?
Model text: Trombone - a cinquain with a musical theme to explore with pupils
Model text: Garden - a cinquain on the theme of ‘the garden’ 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. An explanation of syllables and adjectives are included
Word cards - two sets of word cards, set 1 with words linked to music and the orchestra and set 2 with words linked to the theme of the garden, which could be used to provide inspiration for pupils to base their cinquains on these themes
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
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 of 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.
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