Sonnets are 14 line poems with a strict structure, typically featuring a personal or passionate topic. They are divided into an 8 line octave presenting a problem or situation, followed by a 6 line sestet addressing the issue, often with a concluding couplet. Between these sections is a volta, or tonal shift, to transition between introducing the topic in the octave and resolving it in the sestet. Shakespeare was a master of the sonnet form.

1. Sonnet
14 line poems that are highly structured
They are usually personal
Often very passionate
Shakespeare was the master of sonnets

2. Structure
Octave – first 8 lines – usually present a
problem, question or situation
Sestet – final 6 lines – addresses the
problem/ question / situation with an
answer or comment about the situation
Sestet – usually divided into a 4 line
stanza and a couplet that sums up the
conclusion

3. Structure
In between the octave and the sestet there
is usually a shift or turn (maybe tone
change)
There may be a line break but not always
This shift is called the Volta