Write a Limerick

This Writing worksheet introduces students to the limerick, a playful five-line poem known for its humor and distinctive rhythm. Designed to accompany the How to Write a Limerick lesson, it begins with a concise definition of a limerick and outlines the key rules for creating one, including its length, rhyme scheme (AABBA), rhythmical pattern, and the characteristic shorter length of lines 3 and 4. The worksheet also notes that limericks often tell a story, typically about a person.

An example limerick is provided, demonstrating the form’s structure, rhythm, and humorous nature. This example helps students understand how the rhyme scheme and rhythm work together to create the limerick’s characteristic bounce and wit. Students are then given space to compose their own limerick, with lines formatted to reflect the shorter third and fourth lines.

This exercise enhances several skills, including understanding complex poetic forms, rhyme creation, rhythm recognition, and storytelling within a confined structure. By crafting their own limericks, students learn to work within a challenging format, paying close attention to word choice, rhythm, and the development of a humorous narrative. This activity also encourages students to play with language and sound, fostering both their linguistic creativity and their sense of humor.

Grade Level: Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6
Worksheet Type: Writing