At the beginning of the school year, students read the book Where Are You From? as a way of reflecting on their familys’ unique backgrounds and histories. They then wrote poems entitled “Where I’m From,” showing how they are each special. The writing process was followed. First, the students brainstormed their ideas, which ranged from items, food, vacations, family members and holidays with special significance. Then they drafted their poems. They revised their pieces to bring forth their best writing. Finally, they shared their final drafts with each other to showcase what makes them unique. This was a community building writing assignment that allowed students to get to know each other while recognizing and celebrating their differences.
