Lyric poems share the thoughts and feelings of the poet and can be written in rhyme or in free verse. In ancient times, lyric poetry was sung. Students can research a lyric poem of their choice and compare it with a song. Analyzing poetic devices like metaphor, alliteration and rhyme for both the song and poem will lead to greater understanding. Theme and tone can also be studied and compared. Playing the songs for the class is a good way to get students engaged.
Dramatic poetry is usually written in blank verse, or unrhymed iambic pentameter. It is meant to be read aloud or performed. This poetry also contains all the elements of drama, such as character, setting and conflict. Shakespeare's plays are the best example of dramatic poetry. Students can chose a monologue or dialogue from Shakespeare and perform it; memorization, vocal and facial expression and eye contact will all be important to the performance. "Romeo and Juliet" is a classic example for monologues and dialogues.
Narrative poems tell a story with a beginning, middle and end. They generally employ rhythm but do not have to rhyme. Middle school students enjoy the often outlandish and sensory narratives. "The Shadow," by Amy Lowell, can be taught using a story map from a education website such as ReadWriteThink. Students can read the poem and fill in the parts of the map to gain understanding. Reading poetry aloud is best.
Many types of poems are easy for middle schoolers to write. Students can write haiku, a poem that composed of three lines of five, seven and five syllables, respectively. These are often about nature. Another important genre is the epic poem. Ancient writers often wrote these adventure poems and they are still used today in stories like "Star Wars" or "Lord of the Rings." Students can create their own adventure and hero. They can tell the story and illustrate it. Epic poems do not have to rhyme.