Another type of poem I had to try out for my writing class was called the "I Am From" poem. Here is the description from the book: (Learn More! Write More! By M. Carrol Tama & Anita B. McClain)"In this global world of ours students come from many places. Even if they don't come from faraway places like Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, China, Russia, but from Main Street USA, they have much to share. This type of poem is non-threatening particularly to students who perceive themselves as non-writers. Students can always come up with descriptors about place, family and origins. Success is ensured. Through the "I Am From strategy," students see each other differently. They regard more sensitively, students who have come from distant places. Through these poems, American students hear about the trials of immigrants struggling to reach the United States as well as the hardships and fears that traveled with them, and those that remain a part of their lives in this sought after "Land of Golden Opportunity." All students gain insights into the lives of their peers who may have lived in cultures and situations completely foreign to their own. In addition, they view their own neighborhoods and families as rich sources of their personal story."
My "I Am From" poem
I am from Green Knolls Lane, playing with Barbies on a green shag carpet. Family parties with grandmas and grandpas, cousins, and friends.
I am from Ridge Line Road in a house that was build by my father where I spent most of my childhood. Playing with neighbors in the culdesac and returning home when it grew dark.
I am from the mahogany bed with pineapple posts that belonged to my great uncle. The bed I sit in as I write right now.
I am from strawberry cake with strawberry frosting, my signature birthday cake. Birthdays that were always during summer vacation. No work, just enjoyment, a tradition I still have to this day.
I am from family dinners every night at 6:00. Setting the table and filling glasses with water. Mom always cooking something good.
I am from Christmas traditions, a new dated Hallmark ornament for every year of my life. Christmas stockings that my grandma Sue knit by hand with the names of everyone in our family. Blank ones carefully put away for the children I will have some day.
I am from trips to the library for books to read before bed. Snuggling with mom on the couch as she read. Loving the special time with her and favorite books, Benny Bakes a Cake, Surprise Party, and Time to Go to Bed.
I am from Judd Road, another house built by my father, only this time I helped. A long driveway surrounded by woods leading the way to a dream imagined by my parents.
I am from Easton, a town with character, but without a single restaurant and only 1 store. Quaint, comfortable, and filled with family.
I am from Barbette's Dance Academy where I proudly danced for 16 years wearing brightly colored costumes covered in feathers, sequins, and lace. Sparkling on stage just like Miss Barbara taught me.
I am from Samuel Staples, Helen Keller, and Joel Barlow where some of my teachers had taught my mom and dad. Mrs. Fowler taught both my parents, by brother, my aunt, and my cousin. She was the greatest.
I am from Villanova University where I met two people who I love dearly. Where I thought I learned how to be a teacher and where I learned to do laundry. Leaving CT, and my first love, to begin a life that I never thought I wanted.
I am from Portland, Oregon. A home that my husband and I own and altered to fit us just right. From granite counter tops, stainless appliances, and expensive taste that I developed from having a builder as a father. Not my first home, yet it is. Special memories for a new family starting with the two of us.
I am from Tualatin Elementary where I truly learned how to be a teacher. Meeting special kids I will never forget..Maria, Karla, Hugo...
I am from careful and cautious in new situations, but rushing and hurrying through daily life.
I am from shy and quiet sometimes, but talkative and bubbly at others.
I am from...
Some of the poems written by others in my class were absolutely amazing and truly poetic. Their words choices were fantastic and their poems truly were works of art. Mine lacks that creative touch, yet I am sure you learned something about me in reading it so it works whether it is fancy or not!
