Looking for a fun and easy way to introduce poetry to your students? Acrostic poetry is the perfect starting point. They are simple and attractive, and a great way to build creativity and confidence in young writers. What’s more, Acrostic poetry is appealing to all ages, whether it’s a fun classroom activity or a thoughtful, personalized gift. No matter the occasion, they are the perfect way to play with words.
Click the button below to receive a free printable bundle with over 12 acrostic poem templates, including all the templates below.
The acrostic poem explained
Accrostic poems are the creative type of poetry in which, when read vertically, the first letter of each line spells out a word, phrase, or name. Each line connects to that word, and is an engaging way to express ideas, explain things that make sense, and play around with language.
Acrostic poems can be simple or detailed. Whether you’re writing about your favorite animals, changing seasons, or special memories, the possibilities are endless! Above all, there are no strict rules. This allows children to be as imaginative as they please when writing acrostic poems.
How to write an acrostic poem
Writing acrostic poems is simple and always entertains the crowd! Follow these simple steps.
1. Select a topic
Determine the topic of acrostic poetry. This topic may be something that students are studying in their class, such as planet Earth, fractions, or periodic tables of elements. It also makes it a personal interest such as your favorite animals, musical inspiration, Olympic sports and more. Once a topic is selected, students can begin brainstorming related words.
For example, select the topic “Planet Earth.”
2. Please select a word
Select the word that is related to the topic. The letter forms the basis of acrostic poetry. Short words work best for beginners, making your activities attractive and manageable. For those looking for more, longer words can add extra challenges.
For example, if the topic is planet Earth, students may brainstorm words like ocean, forest, climate, etc. Connect to the theme and become available for use in poetry. For this explanation, let’s use the word sea.
3. Write words vertically
With this word chosen, it’s time to put a pencil on paper and bring this acrostic poem to life. Write selected words vertically at the bottom of the page to provide the structure of an acrostic poem. For example, if you use the word Ocean, you would see:
o
c
e
a
n
4. Brainstorm ideas for each line
Think about the words you choose and what they represent. Describe it or write down the words, phrases, or sentences that will create a vivid image.
For example, in the language of the sea, students can write down ideas such as “deep blue waves,” “underwater exploration,” and “many sea creatures living underneath the surface.”
5. Write a sentence for each character
Students write sentences or phrases starting with each of the first letters of a vertically spelled word. The sentence must explain or relate words (and topics) in a creative or meaningful way.
For example, in the word sea, the lines of the acrostic poem are:
Over 70% of the earth is covered by the ocean.
Countless creatures call this place a home.
The tides come and go every day.
Surprising ecosystems like coral reefs can be found below the surface of the sea.
Navigating the deep seas remains a mystery to explorers.
Alternatively, you can create an acrostic poem with only one word per letter of the selected word. This is an easy way to get started and still capture the essence of your topic. For example, for the ocean words, you can use:
open
Current
infinite
Adventure
Nature
Acrostic Poetry Templates and Examples
We are teachers
friend
This template is perfect for classroom bonding. Encourage students to explain the qualities of a good friend and reflect on the joys of friendship.
We are teachers
winter
Use this template to capture the essence of winter by explaining what makes the season special, or reflecting on your favorite winter activities and memories.
We are teachers
spring
With this template, students can write about their favorite parts of spring, from blooming flowers to outdoor adventures, and the exciting changes in nature with the seasons.
We are teachers
summer
Use this template to celebrate the beginning of summer or reflect on your favorite summer activities and memories as the school year ends for summer holidays.
We are teachers
autumn
This template is perfect for capturing autumn seasonal activities with vibrant colors or reflecting your favorite autumn traditions and moments.
We are teachers
school
This template will allow students to reflect on their school experience, whether it’s a fun learning experience or a memorable school day.
We are teachers
Valentine
Perfect for celebrating Valentine’s Day, this template allows children to express their love, kindness and gratitude to those they care about.
We are teachers
mother
Perfect for celebrating Mother’s Day, this template will help your children to express their love and gratitude to the special mother and mother figures of their lives.
We are teachers
father
This template allows students to write heartfelt poems to recognize their father and father figures on Father’s Day or anytime.
We are teachers
teacher
A great activity for Teacher Appreciation Week, this template helps students reflect on the qualities that make teachers special.
We are teachers
Shamrock
Use this template to explore the symbolism of St. Patrick’s Day or write about your luck and good fortune.
We are teachers
pumpkin
This template is perfect for celebrating Halloween or autumn season. This allows students to make their favorite pumpkin traditions, festive activities, or even make their pumpkin special.
We are teachers
Grandpa
Use this template to celebrate Grandparents’ Day in September and let students reflect on the wisdom, love of their granddads, and the special memories they share.
We are teachers
Grandma
Perfect for Grandparents’ Day, this template encourages students to write about grandma’s kindness, wisdom and important moments that make her very special.
We are teachers
Earth Day
Use this template to reflect on how you can help students celebrate nature and protect the planet on Earth Day.
We are teachers
respect
This template allows students to explore the importance of kindness and respect by thinking about how to demonstrate it in their daily lives.
Get free printable templates
It’s easy to start writing acrostic poems with a free bundle of acrostic poem templates, including all the templates drawn above. Perfect for classrooms, homeschool projects or fun family activities, these templates can help guide young writers through creative processes.
