Poetry Analysis — Answer Key
Part A: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The line 'Her smile is like sunshine' is an example of a simile.
Similes compare two unlike things using 'like' or 'as' to create vivid images.
2. The line 'The wind whispered secrets' gives the wind human traits, which is personification.
Personification gives human qualities to objects, animals, or ideas in poems.
3. The phrase 'Time is a thief' is a metaphor because it compares without using like or as.
Metaphors directly state one thing is another to highlight a shared quality.
4. 'Slippery snakes slither slowly' uses repeated S sounds, an example of alliteration.
Alliteration repeats opening consonant sounds for rhythm and emphasis.
5. A short three-line poem from Japan with 5-7-5 syllables is a haiku.
Haiku is a Japanese form with a strict syllable pattern across three lines.
6. A 14-line poem often about love is called a sonnet.
Sonnets are 14-line poems with set rhyme schemes, often exploring love or beauty.
7. Poetry without a regular rhyme or meter is called free verse.
Free verse poems do not follow set rhyme schemes or meter patterns.
8. A funny five-line poem with a strong rhythm is called a limerick.
Limericks are humorous five-line poems with an AABBA rhyme scheme.
9. When the moon 'dances' across the sky, the poet uses personification.
Giving human movement to the moon is an example of personification.
Part B: Matching
Match each item on the left to the correct answer on the right.
1. Match each item to its correct answer.
Simile
→ Compares using like or as
Compares using like or as
Metaphor
→ Directly says one thing is another
Directly says one thing is another
Personification
→ Gives human traits to non-human things
Gives human traits to non-human things
Alliteration
→ Repeats beginning consonant sounds
Repeats beginning consonant sounds
Knowing each term's definition helps students identify them in any poem they read.