April is a time to celebrate the power and beauty of poetry. Not only is it National Poetry Month, but it also marks the birthday of William Shakespeare on April 23—one of the most iconic poets and playwrights in history. To honor the art of poetry, Share My Lesson has curated a rich collection of free preK–12 teaching resources designed to inspire students to read, write, and connect with poetry on a deeper level.
Poetry offers students a unique outlet for self-expression, creativity, and reflection. It encourages them to explore emotions, navigate complex ideas, and momentarily escape the challenges of everyday life. This collection features lesson plans, creative writing prompts, assessments, and engaging videos—all created to bring poetry to life in the classroom or at home.
Students can also explore the meaning of poetry itself. By comparing their personal definitions with formal ones—like the Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries definition—they gain insight into how poetry stirs emotions and sparks the imagination. These reflective exercises help students see poetry not just as literature, but as a timeless form of human expression.
From Shakespeare’s sonnets to contemporary voices that reflect today’s world, this collection celebrates the diverse landscape of poetry across cultures and eras. Through reading, writing, reciting, and performing, students experience the transformative power of poetry and discover its enduring relevance.
Whether you’re an educator or a parent/guardian, this collection offers a comprehensive toolkit to make poetry engaging, accessible, and unforgettable—helping young learners develop a lasting appreciation for the art of the written word.
