I think that writing poetry is a great way to provide mini-lessons (syllables, vivid verbs, adjectives, prepositional phrases, rhythm, imagery, etc.) that can be immediately applied to a short, yet important task. In our poetry unit, we read and interpret poems, but I also teach the kids to create their own using some formulaic styles. Each year we try our hands at acrostic, color, senses, and cinquain. If we can squeeze in haikus and couplets, that’s a big win. Rhyming can be a challenge at this age, but some kids are ready and eager to take that leap. Ultimately, I want the kids to be creative and take at least one poem through the writing process for publication in our class poetry book.