What Are Sound Devices in a Poem?

Sound devices in poetry are techniques that use sounds to create rhythm, mood, emphasis and enjoyment for the reader or listener. From alliteration and onomatopoeia to rhyme and repetition, these devices are an essential component of the “music-like” quality of poetry.

This one-page list is a student’s one-stop shop for understanding and using the most common types of sound devices in poetry. Each entry includes the name of the device, a clear student-friendly definition and an example, making it simple for learners to understand how the device helps poems come alive.

The list contains the following six sound devices:

• Rhyme
• Rhythm
• Repetition
• Alliteration
• Assonance
• Onomatopoeia

This list of sound devices in poetry downloads as a printable PDF or editable Google Slides document. Whichever file you choose, this resource will ensure your students always have access to clear explanations and examples of sound devices when they need them most.

Using This Sound Devices and Examples List in Your Classroom

Teaching sound devices for poetry can be both meaningful and fun when students are actively involved in exploring how language sounds. This resource can be incorporated into a variety of literacy activities, providing students with a practical tool they can use again and again.

Here are some ideas for using this versatile resource in your poetry lessons:

• Reading Activities – Display the list of sound devices on your interactive whiteboard while reading poems as a class. Challenge students to identify the sound devices, using the list as a reference.
• Writing Activities – Choose a particular sound device for students to feature in their own poetry. Challenge more confident students to include multiple devices, such as thyme, rhythm and repetition.

Download This List of Sound Devices in Poetry

Ready to bring your poetry lessons to life? This list of sound devices in poetry is quick and easy to download, making it a convenient addition to your ELA teaching toolkit. Use the Download button above to access either the printable PDF or the editable Google Slides file. (Note: You will be prompted to make a copy of the Google Slides template on your personal drive before accessing it.)

Perfect for student notebooks, this resource is a great starting point for exploring sound devices in poetry with your students.

More Resources for Teaching Sound Techniques in Poetry

Teach Starter has more great resources to save you time when teaching sound devices to your class. Click below for some more curriculum-aligned, teacher-created activities!

teaching resource

Exploring Figurative Language in Poetry Workbook

Teach your upper elementary and middle school students to read, analyze, and discuss poetry with a printable and digital poetry workbook.

teaching resource

Onomatopoeia Poems Poster and Templates

Use this onomatopoeia poem poster and accompanying template to teach your students how to write an onomatopoeia poem.

teaching resource

Sound Devices in Poetry - Teaching Slide Deck

Teach the different sound devices used in poetry with this Google Slide Deck.