The haiku is an uncomplicated form of poetry that kids will take to with natural skill. This traditional Japanese verse is just three lines. All you need is to remember that and the 5-7-5 rule. Read on for the how-to.
Here’s the basic structure of the haiku:
1st line: 5 syllables
2nd line: 7 syllables
3rd line: 5 syllables
The biggest challenge is teaching them the difference between words and syllables and helping them count it out if they need it. Kids can count on their fingers as they try and figure out the perfect way to say it with words. Here’s an example:
1st verse:
It is ice cream time (5)
2nd verse:
Serve it in a cup or cone (7)
3rd verse:
Ice cream time is here (5)
More examples:
Ride your tricycle
It is red and has a bell
Take it to the street
Mom is tired now
But soon she will rise again
No rest for mommy
—Amber Guetebier
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