Question

First, brainstorm a list of topics you might want to write about and then choose two. Remember, a poem can be about any topic at all! The trick is to make sure the topic is one about which you’re passionate and can convey strong feelings.
Think about poetic forms that might be well-suited to each topic. Use the graphic organizer to jot down notes about what a particular form must include, as well as what you want to feature in your poem. As needed, do research to learn about other form options available to you.
When you’re ready, begin sketching out your ideas for each poem. Freewriting is often a helpful technique when you’re just getting started. Set a timer for five minutes and then begin writing—and don’t stop until the timer goes off. Make the answer short and not advanced.

Answer 1

Brainstorm (quick list of possible topics)
- A childhood memory
- A family member (grandma, sibling)
- A pet or animal
- First day at a new school
- A place (beach, forest, your room)
- A season (winter, summer)
- A favorite food
- Friendship / losing a friend
- A hobby (drawing, soccer)
- A dream or fear
- A city at night
- A moment of kindness

Choose two topics
1) A childhood memory (playing in the backyard)
2) A pet (a dog that waited at the door)

Pick a poetic form for each and quick organizer notes
For each, make two short columns: “Form must include” and “What I want to feature.”

1) Childhood memory — Form: simple free verse (no strict rules)
- Form must include: short lines, clear images, one or two metaphors
- What I want to feature: sounds (laughter, leaves), a small concrete detail (a red swing), feeling of safety

2) Pet — Form: short rhymed poem (AABB or ABAB, 8–12 lines)
- Form must include: rhyme pattern, rhythm (roughly even beats), a simple refrain (repeat a line once)
- What I want to feature: loyalty, the dog’s eyes, the daily routine (waiting by the door), one emotional line (gratitude or loss)

Freewriting sketches (set a timer for 5 minutes for each; don’t stop until it rings)
- Childhood memory starter (free verse):
I remember the backyard heat,
the red swing squeaking my name,
a beetle racing the fence,
my mother calling from the kitchen like a bell.
Tell everything you notice—smells, sounds, how your hands felt.

- Pet starter (short rhymed lines; try AABB):
He waits at the door when the day is through,
tail tapping time like a quiet drum, true.
Eyes say “come back” before footsteps fall,
his small heart keeping watch for all.
Repeat one line (e.g., “He waits at the door”) somewhere later.

Quick tips
- Use specific images (color, sound, touch) rather than general words.
- Don’t worry about perfect lines—freewriting is for raw ideas.
- After the 5-minute freewrite, circle strong lines to build into the poem.

When you’re ready, set a 5-minute timer and start the first freewrite.