World Poetry Day, celebrated annually on March 21st, is a day designated by UNESCO to promote the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry, and to honour the power of poetry as a universal form of human expression and cultural identity. 

We celebrate the beauty and power of poetry. From ancient verses to modern masterpieces, poetry has the unique ability to capture emotions, tell stories, and inspire change. Let's take a moment to appreciate the poets who enrich our lives with their words and creativity. 🖋️❤️

The day aims to:

• Promote the reading, writing, publishing, and teaching of poetry. 
• Celebrate the unique ability of poetry to capture the creative spirit of the human mind. 
• Support linguistic diversity through poetic expression and increase the opportunity for endangered languages to be heard. 
• Honour poets and revive the practice of poetry recitals. 
• Encourage people to engage with poetry in all its forms. 

History:

UNESCO first adopted March 21st as World Poetry Day during its 30th General Conference in Paris in 1999. 

Links

• English Literature KS3 / GCSE: Poets in Person - BBC Teach
• English Literature GCSE: Between the Lines - The Romantics - BBC Teach
• English Literature GCSE: Poetry - Between the Lines - BBC Teach
• English Literature KS3 / GCSE: Simon Armitage - Writing Poems - BBC Teach
• KS3 / KS4 English Language: Inside the Writer's Mind - BBC Teach
• Could you be a poet? - BBC Teach
• Poems and Resources - Forward Arts Foundation
• Kids’ Poems and Stories With Michael Rosen - YouTube
• Authors Live on Demand - Scottish Book Trust
• The Children’s Poetry Archive - Listen to the world's best children's poetry read out loud.
• Teens | The Poetry Foundation
• How to use rhyme effectively guide for KS3 English students - BBC Bitesize
• Writing slam and spoken word poetry guide for KS3 English students - BBC Bitesize
• Youth Speaks - YouTube

Competitions

• Foyle Young Poets – of the Year Award
• Poetry By Heart
• The Orwell Youth Prize | The Orwell Foundation
• D.H. Lawrence Children's Prize: Writing Competition
• No Place Like Home – Art and Poetry Competition for Schools - Sanctuary Foundation
• Pet Poetry Competition for 5-18 year-olds | Young Writers
• Poetry Competition - IF Oxford

Games

• Magnetic Poetry : Play with the Kids Magnetic Poetry Kit
• Creative Communication

Poetry book recommendations for teenagers

• Favourite poetry books teens | BookTrust
• Childrens Poetry
• Teen Poetry Books

Here are some great films about poetry that are suitable for teenagers:

• Dead Poets Society (1989) - This classic film follows an English teacher who inspires his students through poetry. It's a powerful story about the impact of literature and the importance of following one's passions.
• Paterson (2016) - This film tells the story of a bus driver and poet named Paterson, who finds beauty in the everyday moments of life. It's a gentle and inspiring film that highlights poetry in the mundane.
• The Kindergarten Teacher (2018) - This movie features a kindergarten teacher who discovers that one of her students is a poetry prodigy. It's a thought-provoking film about the power of creativity and the responsibilities of nurturing talent.
• Akeelah and the Bee (2006) - While not solely about poetry, this film follows a young girl who discovers her talent for spelling and language, including poetry. It's an uplifting story about perseverance and self-discovery.
• Poetry (2010) - This South Korean film tells the story of an elderly woman who discovers a passion for writing poetry while facing personal challenges. It's a beautiful and moving film that can inspire teenagers to find their own creative outlets.
• The Secret Garden (1993) - This adaptation of the classic novel includes beautiful poetic elements and themes of growth and healing, making it a great family film.
• The Tale of Despereaux (2008) - This animated film tells the story of a brave mouse who loves reading and poetry. It's a charming tale of courage and adventure suitable for all ages.
• Horton Hears a Who! (2008) - Based on Dr. Seuss's book, this animated film features whimsical rhymes and a heart-warming story about kindness and community.
• The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) - Inspired by a poem written by Tim Burton, this stop-motion animated film combines poetry with a unique and enchanting storyline.
• The BFG (2016) - Adapted from Roald Dahl's book, this film includes poetic elements and imaginative language as it tells the story of a young girl and her giant friend.
• The Little Prince (2015) - This animated adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's classic novella combines beautiful visuals with poetic themes of love, friendship, and the importance of imagination.
• Kubo and the Two Strings (2016) - This stop-motion animated film features a young boy who uses storytelling and music to navigate his adventures. It has poetic elements and a touching narrative.