9th Grade Poetry Notes – Study Guide
1. What is Poetry?
* Poetry is a form of literature that uses rhythm, sound, and vivid language to
express ideas, emotions, or tell a story.
* It often uses figurative language and imagery.
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2. Elements of Poetry
a. Speaker
* The voice talking in the poem (not always the poet).
* Can be a character, object, or abstract idea.
b. Tone
* The speaker’s attitude or feelings (e.g., joyful, angry, sad).
* You can find the tone by paying attention to word choice.
c. Mood
* The feeling the reader gets from the poem (e.g., peaceful, eerie).
d. Theme
* The message or lesson the poet wants to share.
* Not stated directly—must be inferred.
e. Imagery
* Descriptive language that appeals to the five senses.
* Example: “The cold wind whipped against my face.”
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3. Figurative Language
a. Simile
* A comparison using “like” or “as”
* Example: “He’s as fast as lightning.”
b. Metaphor
* A direct comparison (no “like” or “as”)
* Example: “Time is a thief.”
c. Personification
* Giving human traits to nonhuman things
* Example: “The flowers danced in the breeze.”
d. Hyperbole
* Extreme exaggeration
* Example: “I’ve told you a million times!”
e. Symbolism
1. What is Poetry?
* Poetry is a form of literature that uses rhythm, sound, and vivid language to
express ideas, emotions, or tell a story.
* It often uses figurative language and imagery.
________________
2. Elements of Poetry
a. Speaker
* The voice talking in the poem (not always the poet).
* Can be a character, object, or abstract idea.
b. Tone
* The speaker’s attitude or feelings (e.g., joyful, angry, sad).
* You can find the tone by paying attention to word choice.
c. Mood
* The feeling the reader gets from the poem (e.g., peaceful, eerie).
d. Theme
* The message or lesson the poet wants to share.
* Not stated directly—must be inferred.
e. Imagery
* Descriptive language that appeals to the five senses.
* Example: “The cold wind whipped against my face.”
________________
3. Figurative Language
a. Simile
* A comparison using “like” or “as”
* Example: “He’s as fast as lightning.”
b. Metaphor
* A direct comparison (no “like” or “as”)
* Example: “Time is a thief.”
c. Personification
* Giving human traits to nonhuman things
* Example: “The flowers danced in the breeze.”
d. Hyperbole
* Extreme exaggeration
* Example: “I’ve told you a million times!”
e. Symbolism
