Write it with Rhythm: Exploring the Art of Poetry for Middle School Writers
Unleash your student’s creativity through poetry! In this 4-week course, learners will explore different types of poetry, practice writing their own poems, and develop their voice as young writers.
Dr. Brooke Nelson
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(7)
What's included
4 live meetings
3 hrs 40 mins in-class hoursHomework
2-4 hours per week. 3-6 throughout the classAssessment
includedClass Experience
US Grade 6 - 9
Does your learner want to unleash their creativity and find their voice as a poet? In this 4-week class, students will explore different poetic forms, experiment with techniques like imagery and rhythm, and craft original poems. This course is designed to be fun, interactive, and inspiring, helping learners build confidence while developing their creative writing skills. Students will discover the magic of poetry by learning how to write rhymed poems, free verse, and narrative poems. Whether they’re new to poetry or looking to enhance their skills, this class will empower learners to express themselves and celebrate their unique creativity. How is the class structured? Each session is 55 minutes long and includes: • Mini-Lecture: A short, interactive explanation of the week’s topic. • Group Analysis: Discussions of famous poems to explore their techniques. • Writing Practice: Guided exercises to create original poetry. • Feedback Opportunities: Students will receive support and encouragement to refine their work. My teaching style is creative and encouraging, combining structured lessons with open-ended exploration. I use visual aids, group discussions, and writing prompts to engage students and inspire their imagination. This class is highly interactive. Students will participate in: • Class discussions to analyze and share ideas about poetry. • Writing challenges to apply skills and experiment with techniques. • Peer reviews to give and receive feedback in a supportive environment. By the end of this course, students will feel confident in their ability to write and share poetry that reflects their unique voice and perspective!
Learning Goals
• Understand and practice key poetic techniques like imagery, rhythm, and metaphor.• Explore and create different types of poems, including haikus, free verse, and narrative poetry.
Syllabus
Curriculum
Follows Teacher-Created Curriculum4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Poetry and Finding Your Voice
• What is poetry? Exploring its purpose and power.
• Learn how to use imagery and sensory details to make writing vivid.
• Write a short descriptive poem inspired by a chosen object or memory. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Exploring Poetic Forms: Short Poems and Free Verse
• Discover the structure and beauty of short poetry.
• Learn the freedom and creativity of free verse poetry.
• Write your own free verse poem. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Creating Narrative Poems
• Learn how poetry can tell stories.
• Explore rhyme schemes, rhythm, and repetition in storytelling.
• Write a short narrative poem about a personal or fictional event. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Revising and Sharing Your Poetry
• Explore techniques for revising and refining poems.
• Share your favorite poem with the class in a supportive environment.
• Celebrate growth as a writer and poet. 55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
This class does not contain any upsetting or scary content. All writing exercises and activities are age-appropriate for middle school students. No external tools or accounts are required for this course. Parents are encouraged to support their learners by discussing class assignments or providing feedback at home, but this is not mandatory.
Pre-Requisites
This course is designed for middle school students who have a basic understanding of writing sentences reading literature. No prior poetry expertise is needed—just a willingness to learn, write, and have fun!
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined January, 2021
5.0
7reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
2 Degrees
Doctoral Degree in Religious Studies from Claremont Graduate University
Master's Degree in History from University of California, Irvine
I have over 14 years of experience teaching writing and grammar to students of all ages in both traditional classrooms and online learning environments. My background includes creating and delivering engaging, student-centered lessons that help learners master essential skills like sentence structure, punctuation, and essay writing. I’ve worked with hundreds of students to build their confidence as writers, whether for academic success or creative expression.
In addition to teaching, I have trained educators in inquiry-based learning techniques and developed curriculum materials that are now used by schools across the country. My approach focuses on making grammar approachable and fun, encouraging students to see it as a tool for better communication and creativity. My experience working with middle school learners specifically equips me to deliver lessons that are age-appropriate, engaging, and tailored to their developmental needs.
Reviews
Live Group Course
$57
weekly or $225 for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 11-14
2-12 learners per class
