HPA and GSMS Grade Eight LA

Grade 8 Language Arts
Mrs.Kelly/Mr.Stone

Writing Assignment #1 Where I Am From Poem​

In our effort to encourage you to write about what matters to you, your first writing assignment will be in the form of a free verse, autobiographical poem modeled after the original poem by George Ella Lyon.

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For this assignment you will:
Learn to read like writers

Read and examine a collection of Where I am From poems(mentor texts)
Record the features of these Where I am From poems
Create at least two drafts in your Writer’s Notebook
Hand in a polished copy of your Where I am From poem

Your poem must include the following:
• One example of alliteration​
• One example of a metaphor or simile
• Include vivid imagery: description that appeals to my senses
• A concluding stanza that captures what you want to say about yourself and who you are
• A title and your signature

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As a final touch, mount your poem on construction paper of your favourite colour.

 

Consider some of these categories while writing your poem:• Sayings (Mind over matter), expressions (Perk up!)

• Favourite childhood pastimes

• Secrets you are willing to share

• Favourite book titles or characters

• Music

• Treats, sweets, favourite dinners, drinks, etc…

• Fears

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​On the back of your poem point out two things you did deliberately as a writer.

Examples:

​​• I chose to write in lowercase because _______. I wanted the reader to ________.

• I capitalized the beginning of every line because __________. I wanted the reader to ________.

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Sincerely,

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Mrs.Kelly and Mr.Stone