Where I’m From

1. Where I’m From 8th Grade Poetry Unit

2. Journal • Answer the following questions in your notebook: • What makes someone who they are? • Do you think your past influences your future and in what ways?

3. “Where I’m From” • Directions: Read the poem “Where I’m From” by George Ella Lyon and then answer the following questions. • What is the purpose of this poem? • List five common objects that the author uses to describe where she’s from. • How do the things listed represent the poet?

4. “Where I’m From” Poem • Next, you will be writing your own “Where I’m From” poem describing your own roots. • Use the frame on the back of the handout to write your poem. • Your poem must be at least 4 stanzas long.

5. Ms. Dalziel: “Where I’m From” Where I’m From I am from mosquitoes in summer, From macaroni and cheese with hotdogs I’m from three legged races In my dad’s fireman boots, Barbie doll weddings, The BFG and Matilda, Figure skating in the driveway, And sleepovers in the playhouse. I’m from French braids and tea parties, Soccer games on Saturdays, Teaching to a classroom of dolls, Eating mints at grandma’s house, Wearing dress ups and high heels That never ever fit right. I’m from laughter and tears, From carols in front of the Christmas tree And prayers in the village church I’m from “eat your greens” “Who wants cherry pie for dessert?” “Cou cou!” and “Salut!” I’m from Burgundy Road in Encinitas, Past the speed bumps, After the bamboo grove, Across the street from Capri, In a house my father built, With his bare hands. That’s where I’m from.