Introduction
The best popstar Madonna
Really knows how to start some drama
She sings and dance in iconic outfits
So magazines can throw fits
If you enjoy being a prankster, cracking jokes or really loved the joke above this WebQuest is for you!
Task
Basics in Writing A Clerihew
In this WebQuest it will outline how to properly write funny poetry in the style of Clerihew. This is for students starting to branch into poetry and learn about the different forms and styles. At the end you'll have the resources and experience to make funny poems to poke fun at friends and family!
Clerihew: a poem that is 4 lines long with a pattern rhythm of AA, BB scheme
Rules: When creating a Clerihew there are important rules to follow when creating this type of poem.
- Must be four lines long
- The first and second lines rhyme with each other
- The third and fourth lines rhyme with each other
- The first line has to name a person, and the second line ends with something that rhymes with the name of the person
- Most importantly a clerihew should be funny
Side note: The third and fourth role does not require any specifics when creating just that they rhyme with each other (rule 3)
Initiation: Now that the rules are laid out there are a few more details to know to help, there is a lot of room for self creation
- When making the poem there is no need to worry about the count of syllables or the length of each line
- Make sure the rhythm scheme AABB is understood so the poem is done correctly
Process
Outline of a Clerihew
Reminder that a Clerihew is a 4 lined poem filled with rhymes that need to connect lines together.
When starting to formulate your poem after brainstorming ideas follow the AABB rhythm scheme to have an accurate clerihew
AABB rhythm scheme: a pattern where pairs of lines rhyme with each other consecutively
(This rhythm scheme is what makes a clerihew a clerihew)
Outline of rhythm scheme:
- A and A: lines 1 and 2 rhyme
- B and B: lines 3 and 4 rhyme
Here is a video that demonstrates how to write this type of poem:
Evaluation
Time to Start Writing
First: Pick a person to write your poem on, it could be anyone.
- Family
- Friends
- Favorite character
Second: Put your thoughts on paper and write the poem (make sure they are funny ideas)
- your first one could be hard, so it's important to write drafts
Third: Share it with the world
- verbally tell friends and family members
Conclusion
To Conclude
Now here is a step by step outline on how to write an accurate clerihew. I hope this resource can help create more clerihew in the future and can be shared with others to educate them as well.
Lasting thoughts
- Making these poems are to help stir up laughter
- There is unlimited amount of room for creativity
Credits
Joanne Baez
Websites that aided in the research:
- Nesbitt, Follow KennKenn NesbittKenn. Kenn Nesbitt, poetry4kids.com/lessons/how-to-write-a-clerihew/. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.
- "AABB Rhyme Scheme.” Poem Analysis, 9 Dec. 2024, poemanalysis.com/rhyme-scheme/aabb/#:~:text=An%20AABB%20rhyme%20scheme%20is,the%20third%20with%20the%20fourth).
- YouTube, youtu.be/ZRRUUhyB7KM?feature=shared. Accessed 10 Apr. 2025.