A cinquain is a five-line poem. The traditional cinquain follows a syllable count, with lines of cinquain cinquain 2 syllables, 4 syllables, 6 syllables, 8 syllables, 2 syllables.
Selecting words for a cinquain can be challenging, especially when using the syllable form. Encourage students to use a thesaurus to find words that express precisely what is being described. The last line is very important and can be difficult. Students should strive to choose a word that gives a little “twist” or extra “punch” to the end of the verse.
This poem-wrinig activity was kindly provided by Evan-Moor Corp and can be also downloaded from their website.
Enjoy - who knows, maybe one of your students is the future William Shakespear!
