Figurative language devices such as simile and metaphor are a staple of poetry. Kids love figurative language, even when they don't understand what they are using. Simile is the easiest figurative language device to teach to children. Ask your students to write a noun on a piece of paper, then pass the paper to a classmate, who will then write down something that reminds them of what her classmate has written. When the slips of paper have been passed around the room, read the results to your class and explain to your students what simile is. Repeat this exercise until your students have an better understanding of how to compare one thing to another, then ask students to write a four-line poem that uses simile.
Have your students create a poem together. You come up with a title and then pass the poem around the class. Each student should write one line of poetry beginning with the letter of the alphabet that comes up during her turn. Student one would write a line of poetry beginning with the letter a, student two with the letter b, and so on. Ask one of your students to read the finished poem.
Ask your students to use the letters of their name to make up a title for a poem, then have them write a poem based on the title they came up with. Another name poem activity you can use is to have students write a poem about one of their classmates, using each letter of the classmates name to start one line of poetry. This is both fun and challenging for kids.
Since poetry is more than words on paper, try reading exercises that will help your students develop the way they deliver a poetry reading. Use funny poems that encourage your students to try various vocal approaches and inspire them to take on characters. Vary the exercises by having two or three students read at a time, taking turns reading the lines. Sometimes having more than one student reading at a time helps take away stage fright.
Make a class poetry book for the end of the school year. Ask students to write one or two poems to include in the book. Include students in the production of the book as well. You could break the book down into themes and have students choose which theme to write about. Offer the book to parents at the end of the school year, at the end of a special live reading by your class.