This short unit (3 lessons) introduces haiku to KS3 students through the theme of journeys. Poetry is often about journeys, both literal and metaphorical, and studying haiku is a simple way to help students connect to their surroundings and produce personal and creative work. Haiku are a part of Japanese culture sometimes mistakenly taught as just a three-line, 5-7-5 syllable poems. This unit aims to give students the real essence of haiku as they work on core literacy skills. Why not also enter the World Children’s Haiku Contest, which is accepting entries until Feb 28 2022. For more details see The Japan Society website.

This booklet contains ideas for educators wishing to introduce haiku poetry. Students of all ages can write a haiku outside and there are printable worksheets to act as a guide. The booklet was made by haiku poet Paul Conneally and contains information about haiku and their key features, as well as tasks for students to identify different the elements and seasons of haiku (suitable for KS2 and above). As well as a creative exercise, haiku can be used to introduce mindfulness and as a way to reflect on the world around us. The Japan Society are also accepting entries to the 17th World Children’s Haiku Contest until 28 February 2022. More resources related to Japanese culture are available from The Japan Society website.