Writing poetry gives pupils the chance to experiment with language and express ideas in creative ways. This KS1 poetry resource pack helps you teach kennings step by step, using clear WAGOLL examples. Pupils will see how kennings work, then use the resources to plan, write and present their own riddles about familiar objects.
A kenning is a simple but powerful poetic device. Instead of naming something directly, pupils describe it through short two-word phrases, usually joined by a hyphen.
Each line adds a new clue. For example: fluffy-friend, squishy-snuggler, cuddle-giver, night-comforter, travel-companion. The answer is, of course, a teddy bear. Another example is four-legged, back-recliner, bottom-settler, table-mate, wooden-seat. This describes a chair.
By studying these WAGOLL texts, your pupils can see how kennings turn ordinary objects into playful riddles. They can then apply the same poetic techniques to their own writing, linking kennings to class topics or books you are currently exploring.
What’s included in the pack
You get a full set of teaching and pupil resources:
- Kenning model texts – Two ready-to-use WAGOLLs: Which toy? (a teddy) and What am I? (a chair). Each one is written as a riddle for pupils to solve.
- Kenning writing sheet – Success criteria to support writing, with examples of using the suffix -er and adjectives.
- Kenning ideas sheet – A brainstorming page where pupils can jot down words and phrases for their own riddles.
- Kenning ideas cards – Printable images of toys and everyday objects to spark ideas.
- Kenning writing plan – A worksheet that helps pupils gather facts and vocabulary before writing.
- Themed writing paper – Special pages for pupils to present their finished kennings.
Curriculum connections
This unit supports the KS1 English curriculum by helping pupils:
- develop enjoyment of reading and poetry
- build vocabulary through discussing and performing poems
- practise sentence composition and oral rehearsal before writing
- apply spelling rules, including the use of suffixes such as -er
- write poetry to build stamina and positive attitudes to writing
You can teach this unit with confidence knowing it connects directly to Year 1 and Year 2 objectives while giving pupils a fun and accessible route into poetry.