How To: Write a sensory poem

A sensory poem is a poem that uses all five senses to describe something. These are common poems for grade school children. They are not difficult to do and only need to choose something to describe and follow the rules.

1. Choose a style of poetry based upon your requirements or reason for writing. Traditional types of poetry include: sonnets, ballads, odes, epitaphs, haiku, couplets, quatrains, free verse and an extensive list of others. Decide what, if any, type of rhyme, meter and verse your poem will encompass.

Step 2: Decide on the organization of your poem. Organization might include describing fall through each of the five senses separately, in different lines or verses. Alternatively, different verses might describe a fall object, event, word or theme through all five of the senses.

Step 3: Brainstorm a list of Fall words, themes, events and objects. Use this list when you begin to form sensory phrase and word ideas for your fall poem. if you have trouble coming up with ideas, look at pictures of fall events and occasions online to help create your brainstorm list.

Step 4: Create a verse or list of words to include in your poem regarding the tastes of fall. Think of words to describe the taste of fall apples, warm pumpkin pies, Halloween candy, spiced cider or oatmeal on a cold morning. If creating a rhyming poem, begin to think of words that might rhyme with these words and fit with your poem.

Step 5: Use magical words to describe the atmosphere.