Steps:

• Prior to class, cut coloured paper rectangles.
• Write words on the rectangles. Use words that are suitable for the literacy level of your learners.
• Write individual letters on rectangles for people who may want to make up their own words or who want to use prefixes/suffixes.
• Tack words and letters in a scramble on the board.
• Explain to learners that they are going to write poems using only the words and letters offered on the board. They can use the same words and letters more than once and they may combine words with letters to create new words.
• Remind them that they will share their poetry after they are done.
• Once learners have had a chance to write 2-3 poems, get together as a group and read poem(s).
• If learners have knowledge of poetic devices you can deconstruct each poem.
• Be sure to reinforce the idea that everyone can write poetry and it does not have to be done in a conventional manner.

Note: Any combination of words can be used. By including single letters of the alphabet, learners can make up specific words they want. All letters and words are available to all learners. They may use the letters/words more than once. The end result from any learner is a poem in any shape or form.