Grade 1 Poetry Rubric Description This rubric is designed to assess first-grade students’ poetry writing skills in a clear and developmentally appropriate way. It evaluates four key areas: creativity and imagination; use of poetic elements; language and word choice; and presentation. Each category is scored on a scale from emerging to proficient; providing teachers with a structured yet flexible tool to measure student progress. In the creativity and imagination section; students are encouraged to express original ideas and emotions through their poems. This fosters confidence in self-expression and helps young learners explore their thoughts in a creative format. The use of poetic elements assesses basic techniques such as rhyme; rhythm; and simple imagery; helping students understand foundational aspects of poetry while developing their auditory and linguistic skills. Language and word choice focus on vocabulary development; encouraging students to select words that convey meaning and emotion. This supports early literacy by expanding their descriptive language and reinforcing phonics and spelling. The presentation category evaluates neatness and effort; teaching students the importance of sharing their work clearly and proudly. By using this rubric; teachers provide consistent feedback that guides students toward improvement while celebrating their achievements. It aligns with early literacy standards and encourages a love for poetry by making assessment transparent and encouraging. Parents can also use this rubric to understand their child’s progress and support their creative growth at home. Overall; this tool helps build foundational writing skills in a fun and engaging way.