Poetry Flash Cards

Learn terms related to poetic forms, structure, and devices.

Free poetry flash cards with 10 terms and definitions. Flip through each card to study, or shuffle for a new order. Printable for classroom or homework use.

Poetry Terms and Definitions

STANZA
A group of lines forming a section of a poem
RHYME SCHEME
The pattern of end sounds in a poem
METER
The rhythmic pattern of stressed syllables
HAIKU
Japanese poem with 5-7-5 syllable structure
SONNET
A 14-line poem with a specific rhyme scheme
FREE VERSE
Poetry without a regular rhyme or meter
COUPLET
Two consecutive lines that rhyme
LIMERICK
Humorous five-line poem with AABBA rhyme
REFRAIN
A repeated line or phrase in a poem
SYLLABLE
A single unit of sound in a word

About Poetry

Poetry is one of the oldest forms of literary expression, using rhythm, imagery, and compressed language to convey meaning and emotion. These flash cards help students learn the vocabulary of poetic forms and techniques.

Poetry Vocabulary

These flash cards pair poetry terms with their definitions. Students flip cards to learn that a STANZA is a group of lines in a poem, RHYME SCHEME is the pattern of end sounds, and METER is the rhythmic pattern of stressed syllables.

How to Use These Flash Cards in Class

Use these flash cards during a poetry unit. After studying, have students read a poem and identify the terms that apply to it. Then challenge them to write their own short poem using at least two of the forms or techniques.

Printable Poetry Flash Cards

Click the print button to print these poetry flash cards. The printable version lists all terms and definitions, perfect for classroom handouts or homework.

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