Writing Haikus to Assess Learning

Writing haikus can be fun, but it can also be a great way to assess learning.

A Haiku is a Japanese style of poetry about nature. However, in the classroom, these short poems can become one of the easiest ways to assess standards, get learners to focus on word choice, and teach rhythm in poetry.

Assessing Word Structure and Word Choice with Haikus

Teach the format of the poem. Using a template will help writers know what is expected. Haikus follow a rhythm of syllables. The first line is 5 syllables, the second line is 7 syllables, and the third line is 5 syllables.

Focus on word choice. Once the writer’s have a topic in mind it is time to brainstorm great words. Students can create an alphabetical list of topics or words. Students can then break the words they want to use down into syllables. Writing haikus is like a word puzzle of finding the perfect words to fit the right amount of syllables.

Use this Haiku template in the FREE RESOURCE LIBRARY to help organize their ideas.

Assessing Writing Process with Haikus

Write, Edit, Write, Edit and Write some more.

Guide them through the writing process. Pick a topic (maybe poetry, math, or recess). Write an example as an entire class. Then model editing and revising. Write another poem on the same topic. Can you improve it? Are there parts that you can combine from the two poems?

Since the haiku is short in structure, this takes some of the stress away from students who are intimated with editing paragraphs of their writing.

Assess Content Area by Writing Haikus

Use haikus for assessing. Once the learners understand the format of the haiku, use it as a way to check for understanding.

Are you just finishing a lesson on fractions? Have them write a haiku about the standard just taught, the topic as a whole, or their feelings about the topic.

Don’t forget to grab the Free Poetry Templates.

The Digital Poetry Portfolio is a way for students to easily keep track of the poems they write.

Try this FREE 30-Day Poetry Challenge.

Cinquains, Diamantes and Bio Poetry are other poetry types that are great for assessing student learning.