1. I am from… EACH OF US IS INFLUENCED BY A VARIETY OF FACTORS IN OUR LIVES. THIS WRITING ACTIVITY EXPLORES THOSE PLACES, PEOPLE, SIGHTS, WORDS, SOUNDS AND SMELLS THAT GIVE US OUR CULTURAL IDENTITY. YOU’RE GOING TO CONSIDER THE ELEMENTS THAT MAKE UP YOUR CULTURAL IDENTITY, AND CREATE A POEM.

2. Here’s a sample - I AM FROM… SOUTHERN WAYS MUSIC SOUL FOOD PEOPLE OF ALL SHADES SLAVES BRIGHT COLORS LOUD VOICES CONCERTS “GO ON GIRL” SWEET POTATO PIE AND TURKEY IN THE OVEN CHITTERLINGS ON THE STOVE STINKING UP THE HOUSE DANCING ALL NIGHT RACISM AND SMALL SLIGHTS. (W. GARY)

3. Now it’s your turn – Make a list using the matrix below to generate ideas, then put your ideas into a logical order to create a free verse poem. “I am from…” Matrix Category/factors PlacesProductsFoodPeopleCommon thingsPicturesEventsPhrasesSmellsSoundsSightsOuches

4. October Identity Narrative Directions: Create an identity narrative page using your “I am from” poem. Include a title, a border, a visual and a written section. 1.Title – “I am from” 2. 8.5x11 cardstock/Border – a similar border to your previous page. 3. Visual – at least one illustration or picture of an element in your poem. 4. Written Section – “I am from” poem generated from matrix Include the following poetic elements: * Form – free verse poem *Theme/Main Idea – your cultural identity *Mood – how should the reader feel reading the poem? *Imagery -can the reader see, hear, taste, touch, smell where, what or who you are describing?

6. Analyze your prompt using FATPP F – FREE VERSE POEM A – TEACHER AND STUDENTS T – PLACES, PEOPLE, SIGHTS, SMELLS…THAT FORM MY IDENTITY P – TO ENTERTAIN P – YOU MAY USE THE IDEAS YOU GENERATED COMPLETING THE MATRIX, OR EXPLORE NEW ONES.

7. Time to share and turn in your Final Product!  Read over your poem and complete the checklist.  Gather with your group (your row) and each of you read your poem aloud.  Choose the page that is “Most Unique”, “Most Eye- Catching” and “Best Poem” and label them with an award.