Longing to Belong: Poems, Essays, and Short Stories

Lesson 21
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ELA

Unit 1

7th Grade

Lesson 21 of 25

Objective


Unpack the expectations of a Writing Task, study a Mentor Text, and begin to plan a personal narrative.

Readings and Materials


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Target Task


Writing Prompt

Submit three potential food memories (and what they reveal about you) in preparation for responding to the following prompt:

In this unit, many of the stories, poems and nonfiction pieces that students read explored what it means to belong. Some have strong connections to family, culture and community through their experiences with food. Our relationship with food helps us understand our families, our culture, and our identity. For this essay, write a narrative about a real memory of food as a way to show who you are or to explore your identity. 

The narrative should:

  • Be at least four paragraphs long
  • Include an introduction, two or more body paragraphs, and a conclusion
  • Introduce one or more character(s)
  • Include strong sensory details and descriptive language 
  • Include linking words

Sample Response

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Homework


While reading, answer the following questions.

  • Select one of the following essays. Both explore the connection between food, memory, and identity:

  • Read and annotate one text, looking for evidence that develops their understanding of the correlation between food, memory, and identity. 

    Prepare to discuss: 

    • What is the tone of the essay? 
    • What do you learn about the author's personality, identity, culture, or perspective by the end?

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Common Core Standards


  • W.7.3 — Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, relevant descriptive details, and well-structured event sequences.
  • W.7.5 — With some guidance and support from peers and adults, develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on how well purpose and audience have been addressed.

Supporting Standards

L.7.6
SL.7.1
SL.7.6
W.7.4
W.7.10

Next

Draft a body paragraph that includes descriptive, sensory details about a specific food.

Lesson 22
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