25 Poetic Devices for IGCSE

When it comes to poetic devices, there’s almost an infinite amount that you could learn - but realistically, for iGCSE poetry, you probably only need to learn a list of the most common 20-25 features. Here’s a good manageable list for you to get used to - bear in mind that it’s better to know 20 devices well, instead of 50 devices in not much depth, because at theend of the day your analysis of HOW and WHY the technique is used counts for a lot more than being able to pick it out. 

For more help with the iGCSE Poetry, check out our courses here: 

Alliteration – Repetition of initial consonant sounds.

Assonance – Repetition of vowel sounds within words.

Consonance – Repetition of consonant sounds, especially at the ends of words.

Sibilance – Repetition of soft ‘s’, ‘sh’, or ‘z’ sounds for a hissing, soothing, or sinister effect.

Onomatopoeia – Words that imitate natural sounds.

Metaphor – Direct comparison between two unlike things.

Simile – Comparison using “like” or “as.”

Personification – Giving human qualities to non-human things.

Imagery – Descriptive language that appeals to the senses.

Symbolism – Using a symbol to represent a deeper meaning or idea.

Motif – A recurring image, word, or idea that develops a theme.

Synesthesia – Blending of sensory experiences (e.g., a warm color).

Zoomorphism – Giving animal characteristics to something non-animal.

Pathetic Fallacy – Attributing human emotion to aspects of nature or weather.

Oxymoron – Combining contradictory terms (e.g., bittersweet).

Paradox – A seemingly contradictory statement that reveals a truth.

Hyperbole – Extreme exaggeration for emphasis.

Litotes – Understatement often using negatives (e.g., not bad).

Tone – The poet’s attitude toward the subject or audience.

Mood – The atmosphere or emotional setting of the poem.

Refrain – A repeated word, line, or phrase throughout a poem.

Euphony – Pleasant, harmonious sounds.

Cacophony – Harsh, jarring, or dissonant sounds.

Conceit – An extended or elaborate metaphor.

Apostrophe – Direct address to an absent or imaginary person or object.

Make sure you understand what these techniques mean, how to identify them and also WHY poets use them to create specific EFFECTS. We hope this blog post was helpful! For more help with iGCSE Poetry, check out our courses here: