1. Shakespeare’s Sonnet Structure
Accelerated ELA

4. Your turn… Create your own sonnet inspired by Shakespeare
Begin with “Shall I compare thee to ______________________? Thou art more _____________________.” From there, stay consistent with the comparison and the tone you have set.
End with “So long as _____________________________, so long lives __________________________.”
Each line is written in iambic pentameter. Remember, that means there are 5 feet in each line, two syllables per foot, and a total of 10 syllables per line. The stress is on the second syllable of each line; the rhythm is that of a heart beat.
Example: Shall I / compare / thee to / a sum- / -mer’s day?
A sonnet has 3 quatrains (ABAB, CDCD, EFEF) and ends with one couplet (GG).

5. Language Devices for your Sonnet
Your sonnet should contain at least 3 effective metaphors.
Your sonnet should use two effective similes.
You do not need to use Shakespearean language, unless you are very comfortable with it, and can utilize it accurately.
However, you should use higher level vocabulary where possible, in order to be more precise in what you are trying to communicate and express. For example: instead of hate, use loathe or despise. Instead of happy, use elated or jovial. Use your thesaurus!