Two Hearts Beat as One/ Colors of the Wind

From a Teenage Perspective

Ditmas IS 62 - Classes 860 and 701

Barry Kevorkian, Principal

Two Hearts Beat as One/ Colors of the Wind

From a Teenage Perspective

Ditmas IS 62 - Classes 860 and 701

Barry Kevorkian, Principal

Rosinda Rodríguez, Foreign Language InstructorDr. Rose Cherie Reissman, Literacy ConsultantJoey Leone, Manuscript PreparationIsmael Batista, Pre-production Preparation

Student Editorial TeamMaría Robles 860

My illustration best fits this title because the hands on the heart represent the different kind of people. The lines aren’t just lines, they’re the way these different hearts beat. They beat the same, though they are from different cultures.

ArtistsMarvin HenriusCesor Hernandez 701Eduardo Vázquez 701Ivan Vázquez 701

Eduardo Vázquez María Robles

Iliana Rodríguez 860

My illustration matches the title because the rainbow in the background connects to the color meaning of the title. The girl leans against the tree to read what the students wrote about Life.

Editors Anesa Shabbir 701Genesis Orea 701Aarlene Vulat 701

Abdulkamal AjeleroChance AndreBridgette BabbChristopher BudhramTabitha FrançoisJames GittingsMelissa IsaacShahrooz KhanEdwin MartinezYohance ModesteBrenda MoralesSheefan NauthJasmin RiveraMaría RoblesIliana RodríguezAmando Sanchez

Shenelle SmithIkera TariqMuhammad UsmanZully VázquezMarysol VelézTamyra WilliamsTrinell YoungAisha ZafarZoheeb ZafarIqra Zahid

Aneesa AhmedFaridat BalogunAaron BernadinTiffany BrissettVanessa CamposKevin DamierFaha GhauriAmbre HallMarvin HenriusCesar HernandezJonathan HernandezFaith IyahenJunior JeangillesLucy LiJosé LopézSymone Lopéz

Liana MontijoRefatara NoorMurat PashayevAnyah PrattFarhad RahmanZanaya RogersArmando RuizAnesa ShabbirTiffany VargasAndy VázquezEduardo VázquezIvan VázquezAarlene VielotDiamond WilliamsCopeland YoungRonnie Young

Contributors 701Contributors 860

Additional Contributions by:Megan IrizarryHifsa MohammadAlyanna Pierre

Team Work Cover/Title Inspired Designs

CONTENT

Foreword Dr. Lindamichellebaron, Poet and Chair , York College Department of Teacher Education

Student First Foreword Refa NoorIntroduction Rosinda Rodríguez, Foreign Language Educator

Chapter 1 Forthright/Front and Center

Chapter 2 Fears

Chapter 3 Foods/Favorites/

Chapter 4 Family and Friends I am from. . .

Chapter 5 For Life/Life is

Resources

Bios/Photos

Student Reflections on the Publishing Process

It Takes a School Community

Literacy Consultant’s Reflections on this Literacy Lens Dr. Rose Reissman

“I am from” Reader Response Steve Zeitlin

Alignment to Common Core

Last Word Student, Anesa Shabbir

Foreword

Dear Poets,

As someone who also began writing poetry when I was in elementary school, it is wonderful to read this Spanish and English volume of poems. I am thrilled that one of my poems “Reach out and Touch Someone’s Mind” served as an inspiration for your work.

As you developed this collection, Dr. Reissman and Ms. Rodríguez shared your “I am from” poems with me. I was so taken by them that 3 of your group – James Gittings, Faith Iyahen, and Chance Andre were selected for the Celebration of Poetry April 2011 publication online along with Ruby Dee and other adult poets.

The breath of your poetry, its richness and your openness to using Spanish and English language as a portal for emotions, thoughts, and ideas plus your art captivate me as a lifelong reader and poet!1

I welcome all of you to the multi-lingual community of poets.

I look forward to reading your future works and meeting you at celebrations.

Your lives as thinking creators and communicators are off to a fabulous start!!

With affection and respect,

Dr. Lindamichellebaron PoetChair Department of Teacher Education, York College

Refa NoorMy First

My first it was,In kindergarten, yes A reading test, my first.I thought it would be badBut it turned out to be good.Ms. Lombardo, my firstI discovered booksI loved them, just through the looks.

No baby books, but chapter books.I should have been at kindergartenLevel, but I was at 2nd grade Since then, books, books, booksI read now, poetry, poetry, poetryMy first!

Student Foreword

Reaching Out to Reach In

As a teacher of foreign language and as a teacher dedicated to teaching the student as an individual emerging citizen, I decided to embark on this poetry writing workshop as a new project to change the grammatical, vocabulary and foreign language routines of my approach.

For me as a poetry lover myself and someone who majored in Spanish Literature, poetry allowed me a chance to reach out to my students as a concerned educator. I wanted to provide them with a dual language genre format that would fortify, clarify and support their personal and linguistic development.I felt that this poetry workshop in collaboration with Dr. Reissman, offered them an opportunity to utilize Spanish vocabulary, syntax, culture, and universal poetry genres in service of developing dual language fluencies, reading comprehension, and communicating in both languages their life experiences, individual cultures, and emotions.

This unit allowed me as an educator to see my students, not only as foreign language students, but to observe their authoring, thinking, artistic, and emotional process. Many students are turned off by the rigorous learning style of foreign language, but can and were reached through the intrapersonal, interpersonal, spatial, and musical/auditory aspects of poetry. My “Yo Soy” “I am” unit became an authentic, vibrant experience for students as they did their highly successful “I am “poems. Two of these were already published in advance of their book. The themes of the book parallel my units on family, friends, favorites, first and foremost self and life’s meaning. I know that next year learning these words through the authentic voices of the students will make enriching teaching Spanish as a foreign language that invites study of Spanish culture and inclusion of diverse cultures, will enhance and enrich my curriculum.

I feel veteran foreign language teachers and those new to this field; need to use poetry and dual language publication as a multi-lingual portal to reach out to students so they can reach in to their personal experiences to make foreign language learning a vibrant, dynamic experience.

Take a chance on this type of publishing and watch with joy as you and your students discover how language reveals and realizes who you are, plus develops untapped infinite student potential!!“Yo Soy”- I am teacher of Spanish!! I am a poetry educator!!

Rosinda Rodríguez

Ivan Vazqués 701I’m Real

I’m a writer.A writer for me.I’m a thinker.A thinker for me.I’m not a writerNor a thinkerThe person who helped Me, is right in front of me

Marysol VelézLo Logré

Yo solo quiero dejarle saber que pudeElla decía, si puedes, y lo harás.La maestra que siempre me ayudaba.A comprender.A comprender lo que no sabía.Si ella no me hubiera ayudado Yo hoy no estuviera aquí

Ahora estoy aquí en una claseDe nivel avanzadoMis Compañeros la olvidaron, pero no yoYo la comprendía y por esoMe ayudo¡Yo lo hice! Porque ella me ayudo.

James GittingsAlone but Not

Looking around.Not one sound.The grotesque power of the world.My parents gone.Only the ghost of the rest behind,Looking at the worlds shadow.Feeling insignificant,I sit on my own andWonder why.Why do I continue to care?I’m alone, I think to myself.But a voice comes through,I’m always here it says.We are two halves of one.You are alone, but you are never alone.

Faith Iyahen My Tag

My tag is meMy tag is loud like a lionMy tag is sweet like laffy, taffyMy tag is hot like a movie starMy tag is musical like MichoMy tag is dangerousMy tag is beauty

Chapter 1

Forthright/Front and Center

The students were given poems from the Cool Salsa collection that included poetry focused on identity such as the “The Calling” by Luis Rodríguez and “We Would like You to Know” by Ana Castillo. They used these as anchor poems to discuss their views of themselves, front and center.

My tag meMy tag is lovelyMy tag is me

Faith IyahenBully

I hate you.You hate me.Let’s get together.That’s if I don’t kill you first.I hate your face with yourBeady eyes. 2,4,6,8 who doI really hate? You, that’s who. You’re a liar, you’re a cheat. You pushMe around and pick on me…..But how can I hate you when I love everythingYou do.Fighting, lying and cheating.I love you because you’re a mirror imageOf me. In fact you are me. I love you and hate youYou so much because you’re a bully.I love/hate you-You’re me.

Chance Andre Never be influenced,No point trying to take another way of thinking,A side from your side won.Even through everything you go through,You have something to call your own….You.

Eduardo VázquezThe Perfect GirlThere goes a nice looking girl.Her hair shines in the lightHer eyes are like mirrors seeing images all aroundHer beauty shines with loveI never believed the say “you meet Your love at first sight”But now I do.I wonder and wonder if she willSay no or yesIf she says no, I’ll never give upTo win her love.

I’ll express my feeling as my heart tells me to!You will never know if you find your perfect girl.

Tabitha François & María RoblesGet a decent grade.Say I did better-Than some other kidsMom doesn’t care whatOther kids get,Cares about the grades I get.Says I can do better,I’ve done much better before-Work harder because I can do itI need to reach for so much more

Jasmin Shareece Rivera If you could see me for me,You say I’m very smart.I agree.Biting nails-Kids trying to spell.I know I’m smart .I know I’m good.But my grades don’t add up-I keep tryingBut then my bad grades are dieting They start getting excitingNow I’m skateboarding!The feeling of good grades,Makes me happy all dayWhile skateboarding hooray!

Refa NoorMINDCounter-wiseClock-wiseWhichever way it goesAlways think before you speakStarting from your toes to your nose

To be inside your or my mind, would be-An incredible thingEveryone’s mind is always One of a kind!

Business, school, workMinds always like to lurk Television, phones and games,

Please don’t waste your mindOn things that are lame

Aarlene VielotThe Glass Half EmptyWhen you left I started to cryA part of me just wanted to dieWhen will my glass be full again?A new relationship will start to begin.To think of you gives me bliss.Since you’re the one I really miss.

Glass half empty does not satisfy the thirst,Since you were the one I wanted first- When hiding in a rock what I wanted to doYou kept your friendship knowingly and true.Now you’re gone, I feel that hungerLonging, wanting, like no other.To get my glass full is a taskAs one I will go through, you didn’t have to ask.Pleading and praying is all I ever do.So one day, God will bring me back to you.The glass half empty is all I knowBut one day it would changeThat glass will be all full

José Lopéz Violence and PeaceViolence and peaceI don’t like it.Not one bitBut it still doesn’t halt.

I like in Brooklyn,Violence is on the streets-But when will peace Come alone in harmony?

Peace, and libertyI think that’s tight .I hope people see the light

PeacePlease, please, please

Anesa Shabbir Brave and BoldShe’s brave and boldShe’s good and badShe tries and defeats,But never gives upUp she roseAnd won this time.She’s brave andShe’s bold.

She’s brave and boldAnd loves, but never cold,But one and only one Knows.

It’s you who knowsShe’s brave and bold.

She never learned to Take all she learned was to giveShe’s brave and he’s bold.

Chapter 2 Fears

Aneesa AhmedMy Bedroom

I was scared and worriedI was cryingI ran to my bedroomAs time started to pass my heart was beating fasterOh No!Now it is time to go.I sat down next to together passengersButterflies in my stomach.My ears closed.I was up in the air .Displaced in time and space.

James Gittings I am darkness hiddenSecluded within the confirms of the cavern,Watching as people snow who they are

I amNo hypocrite, I do not cureI have no hateI have no remorse.

I am Done with?? I’ve had enough of the fighting,I have no feelings.

I amThe one Watching from the guideline I have servedMy ties.

I have many namesGo perhaps the wrong universe all or maybe oneBut for most I am you,I truly am the truth of the human hollow.

Marysol Veléz ¡Las agujas ya no me asustan!Estoy en las cama delDentista. Estoy nerviosa. ¿Qué me van hacer?¿Volveré a ver al mundo? No lo seSiento al dentista listaCon sus instrumentos lista para Sacarme el diente que¡Nunca va a nacer!“Te vamos a poner a

Fears pervade everyone’s life and dreams. The class listened to the powerful poem “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me at All” by Maya Angelou. This poem inspired these revelations of fantasy, dream, and real fears, all live with and conquer each day. As the students wrote, it was also obvious that the film, Home Alone, had pervaded their collective imagination as well.

Dormir por un tiempo”Me dice el doctor.Siento la aguja en mi vena y estoy dormidaEn un rato.Despiértate y tengo papel enMi boca“¡Ya termine!”Me dijo el dentistaNo puedo sentir mi bocaPero estoy bienYa no tengo miedo a las agujas!

FearFear is a wide objectThat everyone has Some people are afraid ofSnakes, Michael Myers.Love being done, computerPools, meat and vegetablesBoys, girls, talking to peopleDeath, tattoos, and motor vehicles

No matter what you’re afraid of-We are all afraid of somethingWhether we know it or notOr have all felt.

Melissa Isaac Home alone,Don’t knowWhat’s going on in the halls?Sounds like it’s coming from the wallsNothing else to do but shut the noisesOut, and sleep

Tabitha FrançoisEn Casa Sola

En Casa SolaThe wind makesThe door slamThe floor creaksUnder my feetAll this happensWhen I’mEn Casa SolaShadows cast

Along the wallsSomething on the floorMakes me Trip and fallWhen I’m En Casa SolaSeems like someone’sThere but it’s all in my headThat’s what people have saidAll this happens when I’m En Casa Sola

Anesa Shabbir Seizures

It happens.It happens.It goes.It goes.

But do you really knowIf it’s your friend or foe?It can stay. It can go.

I believed and achievedIt’s long away.But many trusted,It turned out to be a foe.

Seizures don’t frighten me,But it does to someone else.It comes and it fades.But it scars you for life.

María RoblesEn Casa Sola

The door slams,Who’s walking?It’s not me,It’s not you,Make them shoo.

Shadows fly?You tell me.I see them pass.Through my walls

What is that?It’s not me, It’s not you,Make them shoo.

En casa solaYou hear whispersNobody’s homeWhat is that I see.It’s not youIt’s not meOh no, make them shoo

Chance Andre En Casa Solo

The movie was scaryBut I was fearlessBlood and guts and gore,Might be freak, butGive me more!Didn’t make my heart even stopI guess the movie didn’t doIts job!!!

Lucy Li Fear

You thought something was happening but no explanations were made,.You’re scared, lonely all of a sudden. You’ve tried to find the explanation you get more frighten.You might let out a scream to represent you scare but your still scared.You thought you see or hear something.It might be something but it’s really nothing.

Your hear beats faster and faster. It beats until you feel your heart is beating out. Once it happens it can’t repeat, until someone gives you an explanation you feel much more calm.Fear is the one thing that repeats forever.

Iqra ZahidHome Alone

Look around no one in sight

But hear a distant footstepComing closer like a invisiblePerson hiding in the shadowsWas that a crash I hear?Am I losing it or isSomeone after my lifeLooking for a chanceTo get me like this oneAm I in danger ?Home aloneLook around no one in sight

Shenelle SmithEn Casa Sola

Wondering who is there?Can you hear me breath?Do you think I’m scared?Shadows moving.Kettles screaming.Can you hear my heart pounding through my chest?Feet moving People laughingWondering who’s there-But I’m still not scared.

Zully Vázquez What was that?

What was that?It was loud?No ones aroundBut who could it be?It wasn’t me!

It came from the kitchen!I walk quietly,And look inside.No ones around!What was that sound?

It wasn’t a catNor was it a day.What was that?

Turns out, it was the wind!I could of sworn it was something,Or even someone!

Abdul Ajelero Home Alone

Boom! I jump out of my chair-Am scared of who’s here-Sssh!! Papers are whereI look around to see who is-WOW! To my amazement Window was open

Sheefan NauthMonsters under my bed?Are they alive, or are they dead?Why are they here?Sounds I can hearMonsters under my bed?Are they alive, or are they dead?I see weird facesShould I make a run for itOr will they chase?Monsters under my bed?Are they alive, or are they dead

Tamyra WilliamsA dark walk home alone,You left your phone at home.But what’s to fear?No dangers near.At least none that I can hear.People walk by short, big and smallBut what do I care who would be scared of them allSo I go walk fearlessly down my blockSo unwilling to be stoppedI walk to the building where I live with a big gold lock.Well it looks like I left my keys I guess I Have to knock, Finally I reach the building hallway.Then I hear my heavy steps on the stairwayBut what can I say, I’m not scared they canWalk as heavy as the want I don’t really care.I’m in my bed at lastAll my days work is in the pastI close my eyes and try to sleep butAll I hear is foot steps trying to creep.

I walk up but not in shock.I have no fears I’m tough like a rock. Aisha ZafarHome Alone

It’s night and coldNo one homeAll of my dreams In my thoughts But it’s not for real

Noises in the kitchenDoor slam shutSomeone knockingBut is it a tree?

Scared to deathHear my heart poundingIt’s just my thoughtsIt’s not for real

Chapter 3

Part of the standard foreign language acquisition vocabulary unit is a focus on food and favorites. The immediacy of this as well as inspiring works such as Sandra Cisneros’s “Good Hot Dogs” and Trinidad Sanchez’s “My Shortest Food Poem” served as launches for this culturally flavorful poetry menu.

María RoblesFavorite Food

Smell that foodThe Pizza with pepperoniThe steam from the grill cookingI smell “Mc. Chicken”They say you are what you eat.So am I Pizza?Or am IA cheeseburger?Maybe I’mFrench fries.What about drinks?YesCoca-cola-So refreshingIt’s so winter freshPop, pop-The popcorns readyTime to eat this tasty food.

Sheefan NauthLasagnaNice, soft and tastySteaming hotWonderful around

Jasmin Rivera Nacho Cheese Seeds

Nacho flavored Watering savorsSo tastyYour flavor sort of makes me-I can’t live without you.Even though I keep eating youMy mom tells me not to.But I won’t listenBecause I like you

Jasmin RiveraMs. Favorite

Pretty faceSaying amazing graceSo much love Told me our love was like a CubTreated me as your daughterEven though I’m your grandArroz con pollo y pastelesSmells of foodsMy GrandmotherLeft me far too soonBut I will remember

Food/Favorites

How much of your loveIs trueTold me everyday,“Mija I love you” I love you tooBut I have a necklace of you

Abdul AjileraGeneral Tso Chicken

The sweet smell or the peppers,As I walk in the Chinese storeI step up to the counter to orderI see him cooking the chickenThe blazing as the chicken blazes.

Tabitha François Yummy Ice Cream

Yum yum yummyIce creamRum Raisin Ice CreamCold and CreamyWith Raisins.Inside Sitting down cross-leggedEnjoying it.Looking at my brotherStaring atThe ice creamIn my hand.Give him someEven thoughI don’t want to.Continue to eat eat eatMy ice cream,But I do Yummy, yummy

Aarlene Vielot

In the night when it’s darkI search for it life a little shark,The only chocolate I really eat.It crunches in my mouth yummy.Caramel makes it gooey.I pull it apart.Then I put it back togetherMaking it look like the start

Crunch crunch chew it againCrunch, crunch- it’s near the endThen when it is goneI say too badCause eating it makes me glad.

En las niches al obscurecer me Pongo a la búsqueda como unTiburón hambriento… y el chocolateEs todo lo que necesito, se come y Se devora, se derrite en mu boca“que rico” el caramelo lo hace riquísimo…Lo separo y luego lo junto, haciendoCrujiente y delicioso...hasta que seMe termina. ¡I que mal suerte! Ya queAl comerlo me lleno de felicidad.

Iqra ZahidChocolate Cake Yummy in my tummyThe sweet tasteAs it enter my mouthIt feels likeI am in heavenEat it nice and hotSo soft in my handMade with loveAnd careWhich makes It sweetYummy in my tummy

“Pastel de Chocolate”

Que rico, que sabrositoMe dice mi pancita…el sabor dulce cuando entra en mi bocasiento que estoyen el “cielo”es rico y calientitosuavecito en mis manoshecho con amor y cuidado, lo cual lohace dulcecito…

Marysol VelézCoffee

The rich good smell-In the morning whenMy mom is making it.The smell that makesMe wake up I rush toGet dressed. I put myShoes on and hurry To the kitchen in myFavorite violet blue cup.Quickly toast some breadAnd drink my coffee to The last drop thatWarm feeling in my Mouth and the aroma-In the air, the aromaOf coffee!

Zully VázquezTasty Tostadas

You chose to make them,Or buy them in a bag.Choose all your favorite toppingsWait….That’s not all.Place cheese, meat, lettuce, tomatoSour cream, beans, salsaAll this on top, one bite tell you everything!The taste, crispy tostadosTastes food fried, not bought.Gives you the tasty feeling on theTip of your tongue!Any way doesn’t matter.It’s the tasty goodness.That’s all it takes!

James Gittings

Crab is awesome$1.50 is what cost isIf I don’t get it, it will be terrible lossI look at my dad, I beg and I pleadHe says you owe me big timeI can’t wait to open this shellDip it in that butter sauce, oh how swell.

El cangrejo Maravilloso”$1.50 es su costoUna gran pérdida, si no lo comproMiro a mi papi Le ruego, le pidoÉl dice “Tu y yo que gran momentoNo puedo esperar para abrirEl cascaron y sacarle yEcharla a la mantequilla“Que rico”

Jasmin Rivera Something Tasty Named Sushi

From JapanThe JapaneseTokyoCan I have some please?Different types…Different flavorsFish, lobsterShrimps, squidsAvocado in my favorite partOf the cuisine dishSomething tasty named Sushi.

Chapter 4

The students read poetry by Lindamichellebaron, Gary Soto’s neighborhood odes, and Sandra Cisneros. They looked into their own lives and wrote about family, friends, and educators who had transformed their lives though support and love.

These poems were inspired by Lindamichellebaron’s “Reach out and Touch Somebody’s Mind.”

Family/Friends/ Formidable Forces

Trinell YoungMs. Martin Touched My Mind

One good teacher I Had was Ms. Martin.My second grade teacherWho pushed me toLearn my multiplicationTables and division or else-I was going to be left backMaking me go the extra mileNow I’m thankful.

Sheefan NauthFor Ms. Calendar

To Mrs. CalendarYou taught me through it allNever would you allow me to fallYou were such a great teacherHelped me with my math, Spanish even a better readerNow it’s three years later.You made me greater

Never take the time to say thank youSo thank you. “I AM From”Diamond Williams

I am From Brooklyn, New YorkA town that wild all dayAnd all night

I am A kind intelligent littleKid who put another needsIn front of my own

I amA good fan of the noses thatI heat in my little room.

I am A video game player thatLittle game that?Me a lot of noises.

Shenelle Smith“El futuro es Espantoso”

MotherA look from the past, To a look in the future.You were there when I needed you,You gave me your allThe best of the best, you told me to never fallPush yourself to your limit.Your future is the present.She would tell meDon’t forget the past it’ll make you better,But keep your head up child.Grades are now, but the future is wild.

Melissa IsaacMy Mom

She asks me what I’m doing.Asks me how I’m doing.Always can tell when I’m sad.But she’s always there.I love you mom.

Abdul KamalMom

You’ve been there for me when I criedI’ve been there for you and gave my mindYou showed me love and passionI’ve made you happy when you’re sad

Bridgette BobbMy Mother

She’s been there for meAll the days that I’ve seenEvery now and then I feel sadDon’t even have the comfort of my dad

I love my mom all the timeCan’t even reach her with a dimeCause the love I have for her is too muchLove ever single touch!

Zully VázquezWhat can I say?

She walks to me and asks “what happened”?But, what can I say?I’m afraid to even say somethingWhat will she think?What will she say?Or even, what can I say?She asks once again,“What happened”?I respond calmly and give herMy test!Ashen looks and says,“Its okay, I know you can do better!I smile, she does too, reacts calmly!She knows I can do better,And I’ll show her I can!

¿Qué Puedo Decir? Ella camino hacia mi lado y pregunto,¿Qué paso?Pero que puedo decirTengo miedo de decirlo¿Qué va a pensar?¿Qué va a decir?También ¿Que voy a decir?Ella pregunto otra vez¿Qué paso?Yo respondí calmadamente y le dijeMi examen.“Está bien, yo sé que puedes hacerlo mejorDecía ellaLe sonríe, y le voy a enseñar que yo puedoHazlo mejor Brenda MoralesMom

Tú has tocando mi vidaMe has inspirado Tratas de hacer lo mejorTú tratas de darnos lo mejorSolo te importa lo que hacemosNo te importa lo que dicen los otrosTú me has ayudado

Zully VázquezMy dear Grandfather

My dear GrandfatherNever really had an opportunity to see him!To let him see meFor the first time!Although I never knew him,Never saw him face to face,I knew him by family pictures.I saw the smile in his eyesGrandfather, he knew we all loved him!Although, we only saw him through photos,I loved him very much.

Shenelle SmithMy Sister

I found you when I was young and you became mine. My friend, my sister, you are one of a kind.You named me after birth,You were there at the church.Waiting for my christening,While your eyes were glistening.

Aarlene VielotBeloved

How can I say my last goodbye when all I do is lay down and cry.

Our memories we share are forever lost, vanished, gone like it had no cost.Guess what, I miss you. I love you to death.

When I think about you my heart dies. Piece by piece the blood stops pumping. Just crumbling my soul, my heart, and I know I love you to death, I want you to know.I don’t want to say goodbye and take my final bow. You will always be in my heard beloved.

I was a fool to ever trust you. I hoped we will never be through, were done, your gone, you are playing the tiny violin song, I hate always being wrong. I hate having to stand there and think when you will be back. My heard lies in my chest and empty sack,

its sinks and can’t float again, my beloved.

They say it is better to have loved and lost then to never have loved at all, but you are not the one losing. I am hurt, I am lost, I am the one you were using. I hate you. I love you. I hate to love you and love to hate you. But do I say this anywhere, do I dare, you are my beloved.

Alyana PierreI love the way

I love the way You left me withoutTelling me goodbye.I love the wayYou left me to always cry,I’m your only daughter and your last child.You made me laugh, smile.Now you’re gone,It’s back to reality I’m in the real world.Seeing the free world.I shake my head every night and day.Do you see these people you left me with?I’m trying to be strong and goodBut I’m down rotten and bad,I love the way.You left me as a little girl-But here’s the last thing I got to say-Sorry mommy, I grew up quick!I became a big girl, trying toRun away from this cruel world.

Megan IrizarrySonnet 135

The day I saw you walk through that big doorAs I stared in your amazing green eyes,I know I wanted to be yours.I knew when I saw your face, it was wise.Your pretty smile made me want you a while.Your voice made me feel warn and happyYour wavy brown hair glistened for a mileYour laugh brought me up when I felt crappy.You held me in your big and strong arms,You are the best thing that happened to me,I knew I was safe from all harms.

I’m not sure, I don’t know if you can seeYou are the shiny, bright star in my sky.Fly high, to you I never want to say goodbye.

Hifsa MohammadSonnet 96-97

Like the glistening water he just shines,His breathtaking heart full of joy and gold,Knowing forever, he’ll remain just mine. TogetherOur hearts come forward and fold,Sometimes he can appear to be naturally stupid,But all those fuzzy nicknames hurt my head,Yet he still shoots those arrows like cupid,Brings heart shaped chocolates and roses that re red.That’s cause I don’t forget the wonderful days,I keep them forever stored besides me.Those are just my extraordinary ways,Cause it is always all about weSometimes we fight but that’s how we just do,At the end we make up, sometimes we act like friends too.

Andy VázquezAlways There

Always there since the beginningShe held me,. Made sacrifices for meY todavia esta aquiSo now I see this my hero.

Always there and still isQuit her job so she can take care of meI was sick as a babySi, ella estaba alli, Donde?With me

Carried me feed me bath me tooMade me chew my foodEven though we fight We en up alright

My hero is my grandmotherYes and she’s always thereNunca se va, estamos juntosTill the endTogether and forever!

Mohammad UsmanMy Best Friend

Always know what I’m up too,Or what I’m going to do.Stopping me from troubleOr getting me into it.

You have been there, always,And for many years to come.

Just like the sun,Always going to shineNo matter what.

Lucy LiA Pain in the Neck

Everyday he come inYelling “she and sit..”All the teachers are so complicated,That barely any students ever pay attentionNevertheless he tries to explain, butNobody understands.He always knows, call your parentsIf interrupted.He always gives out tests, they get passed in.A pain in the neck.

Aneesa AhmedThe True Meaning of Friend is Friendship

To stick by one another.To care and to have trust.And believe in each other.The true meaning of friend Is friendship.Share secrets, laugh, play,And hangout, To keep your heart wide.Open in what dreams andRelationships you canAccomplish.Friendship is like a openDoor to your heart with No key to unlock it becauseThe true meaning of a friend Is friendship.

Aarlene VielotMy Grandfather

He has three cars, two exactly the sameHe throws out money like it’s a game.My grandfather smells like axe-He often wears his favorite slacks.He loves his cargo shortsSoccer is one of his favorite sports.My Grandfather, I will always love.

He has an apartment in New York andHouse in Florida, a flat screen in the houseHe goes to Florida, his kettle sanctuaryFrom city life, no grandchildren And wife.

Iliana RodríguezMy Mom

Mother,The person that give me everything,Through ups and down-Through tight and argument

The one who told meNever give up andKeep your head up high.

The most important person of my life,The one who I will or would take a bullet for.

The reason why I always have A smile on my face!

You touched my lifeThrough so many different ways.It’s so unexplainable.

The bond we have in unbreakableI love you Mom.

Michael PashayeMy Hero

My hero is many.My hero is fight.My hero is one.

My hero proudly holds a gun.My hero kills.My hero breaks every home on his enemy.My hero tires, tires and dies.My hero laughs.My hero is smart.My hero is a soldier.My hero is fear-Claude Van Dame .

Another poem inspired by “Reach Out and Touch Someone’s Mind”

Iqra Zahid-860A Good Teacher

A good teacher is one likeMrs. Jacque who believes,In your ability to do somethingWho pushes you to the heightOf excellence.She wouldn’t take no for An answer.She gets what she wantsFrom a person for his/herOwn good.Behaves more like a Good friend that Helps you throughHard times.

A good teacher is so much more than a Teacher that only Cares about the money-She gets for teaching kids.

Iqra Zahid Sabrina

She’s like no otherHelps me out whenI am in troubleWhen we have a fightNot long before we’re backKeeps my secretsLike they are her ownI could trust her with My life and know its safeShe’s like no other.

Tamyra Williams

Sister as Thing My sister to me is my thing 1Telling me everythingAnd showing me too.Explain things that I never knew.We fight and argue.But when it comesDown to it She always Says “I Love you.”

The ”I am from” poems were suggested by George Ella Lyon’s work and inspired by the ongoing practice of this exercise used by published poet and City Lore Founder Steve Zeitlin.

“ I teach this genre of memoir and affirmation poem to my adult writer students At Cooper Union in my City Stories course for writers. As I read through your work, I was astonished that middle school students could so capture their cultures and roots. Keep on cherishing where you are from as you continue your lives’ journey as persons, readers and writers in two and more languages.Steve Zeitlin

Zanaya Rogers

I am from BrooklynFrom getting light, krump, and break-danceWith T.V on the weekends

I amFrom musicHip Hop, R & B and popFrom parties that last till dawn.

I am from the city that never sleepsStaying up all nightKilling the alarm when it beeps.

I am From fried chicken, coffee, and fast foodFrom not eating please, yes it’s an American staple.

I am From America.Where amusements are priceyFrom where fun never ends.I am an African American girlWith an awesome life!!

Refa Noor

Ancestors and Me

Ancestors are sistersAncestors are brothersThey may be gone-But they are all still with us.

In spirit.In mind.In memories, of any kind!

Who was the first in line?We may never knowTo go back in timeTo look back and think

Me, being born in the statesI may never know who I truly amMy family tree, I can’t findBecause Bangladesh, goes back in time.Brooklyn, New YorkDhaka, BangladeshMe.

Andy VázquezI am Mexican-AmericanFrom La Bachata to Breakdance And staying up till I feel like going to sleep

I am From the wordsKind, caring, and a little loudAlthough there is sadness around meI am always proud

I amFrom the promise of friends and familyForm “you are who you are”“never give up”

I am From rice, pernil,Lasagna and fruitsNever fish.

I amFrom a strong family With no hate justLove

I am LatinMexican andProud

Zully VázquezI am from Brooklyn, Cortelyou Road

I am from Brooklyn, Cortelyou RoadFrom Mexican songs and fiestasAnd from tasty foods!

I am From the motivating words,“Don’t let people’s comments bother you”From “God will always be with you”

I am From my familyWho forgives and forgetsWho always says“Never give up”I am from Tasty foods

Tostadas y frijoles,Rice and chicken,And all Mexican foods

I am From walks in the park,From barbeques,And sunny skies.

I am not ashamed to say-I am Mexican AmericanYo soy de dos Nacionalidades Mexicana y fiestacomidas saboras

Shenelle SmithI amFrom KingstonThat small place on top of the hillBurn and raisedRight out the ghetto.My story is true and is all about my deal-Keep my head up,Always “gangsta” but never disrespected.Some call me Nelly but family call me Nell.

Alyana PierreI’m from BrooklynWhere things go down-Gangs, weed, kids making kidsBut I, Alyana Pierre, survive it.I ignore them boys when they calling me.But I just keep on walking,Cause by the time I give it up.I’m going to be history.Girls don’t cry for boysLet them cry for youGirls don’t cry for boys.Let them cry for you.Girls give and forgive,And boys get and forget.Went through some stuffIt even gave me suicidal thoughts.Born and raised in BrooklynDelivered in Brookdale,Mom dies there, tear tear I still do careNew York City ,you just talk and seeIt’s the whole world that has anger towards me

Aneesa AhmedI am From PakistanAnd I hear bells which means its time for mosque.

I am From the wordsFrom believing, caring and trusting.

I amFrom the promise of honesty and affectionate and intelligent.I believe in myself.

I am fromFrench fries and chicken nuggetsStrawberries and apples

I am from Gorgeous and pretty gardens and flowers

I am from BrooklynI am happy

Faith IyahenI am from the soul

I am from the skinsOf the struggles, wiseAnd the pampered glow

I am from the homesOf the broken, littleAnd the high o mighty

I am from the love Of the one who lovedAnd the one who gave

I amMy love taken mother HaitiAnd love given father Africa

I am from the, civo olea, heartI am a cherry, soul.

Chance AndreI amFrom TrinidadFrom whining and calypsoAnd Juve

I amFrom an island of beauty Love, independence, and unity

I amFrom rottiesAnd curry chicken

I am TrinidadianVenezuelanProud

María RoblesI am from Mexico.From la Salsa, la Bachata y el ReguetonY campanas los domingos

Soy de las palabras.Que a veces dicen “Believe in yourself ”Y “Te quiero mucho”I am from rice, chickenEnchiladas y moleFrom la banana, el mango y la naranjaSoy de Tiendas y carrosPersonas gritando,“Qué bonito es la vida.”Soy LatinaSoy hispanaY alegre Sharooz KhanI am Brooklyn

I am from BrooklynBut inside I’m Pakistan.

I am here at a Young ageChanged in a Big wayI am Brooklyn

I am PakistanYou might notKnow who I am

Iqra Zahid I am From BrooklynA place of Mixed races

I am From the love of musicDancing to the beat Of a new song

I amFrom the world of doing as we pleasenever listen to another

I am From a place whereThere is discriminationBut that don’t stopNo one from beingWho they are

Marysol VelézI am from Brooklyn, New York, And the streets of Cortelyou Road

I am from my Café en las mananasWith my bread and if We don’t have bread its timeTo go to the store in theCorner and get some

I am from las comprasEn las sabados & going downstairsEn las tardes to my cousins houseTo get our eyebrows done withMy cousins and have some girly talk!

I am from the longConversation with my mom in

The kitchen while she cooks And my sister & me listening very carefullyI am Mexican AmericanAnd this is where I’m from

Yo soy de Brooklyn, Nueva YorkDe las calles de Cortelyou Road

Yo soy del café en las mañanas con mi pan Si no lo hay en casa, a la tiendaA comprarloYo soy, de las que compranLos sábados y por la tardeVoy afuera con mi primaPara hacernos las cejasMi prima y yo al hablar un pocoDe cosas que son de chicas.

Jasmin RiveraI am East New York

I am East New YorkLatinas and Negritos togetherSubways no hamburgersBodegas and Chinese foodSometimes people are very cruel

I am East New YorkI am SpanishI love PorkFlying fish my favorite dishCrips, bloods, Latin thugsHolding my baby brother’sTighter that a sweet honey bug

I am East New YorkBorn and raised andLovedHair SalonsFlat irons made me cryCurly hair.Boys would never dareDrooling all over meRun to get my familyHave dreams of heightI’m East New York for life

Chapter 5 For Life/Life is

As they mature as persons and poets, students contemplate what lies ahead and what they will fashion their lives to be. They defined La Vida- Life inspired by the ideas and poetry of Luis J. Rodríguez, Gina Valdes, and Sandra Esteves.

Tabitha François

LifeFor me….Is being blackIs being me,Laughing out loud,Trying to not be sadDon’t let what peopleSay get to you.Just be yourself

Faith Iyahen

Throw BackRewind back to yesterday.Arab scarves, side kicks, line leaderThrow back to 3rd gradeJeans under uniform skirts, the G1Throw back to 5th grade.Silly bands, skinny jeans, upper earPiercing. Throw back to 6th gradeUggs, ac’s polo skullys ?Rewind back to earlier days.

Eduardo Vasquez

Life to me is a destinyDestiny could be life, if you wanted to Your life is your own, not mine.

You many never know if your destiny is overIf it comes, then create another oneWithout destiny, you have no life

I f you have no life, no one will make it for youFor me and you life is short and such littleUse the time for good memories but…Don’t throw it away So it will grab you toThe shadows. You need time, peace, hopes and Friendship to let you go forward, don’t worryWe’ll go together if we need to.

La vida para mi tiene es unDestino.El destino puede ser largo siUno así quiereLa vida es nuestra propiedad.

Uno nunca sabe el final de su destinoAsí, que puedes crear otro destinoSin destino, No hay vida.La vida es importanteNunca desperdiciar un minuto Hay que aprovecharlo al máximo.El tiempo libre en la vida esPara recordad solamente buenasMemorias y nunca olvidarlosLa vida es paz, esperanza y amistadaEl amor, la esperanza y laBuenas amistades te A empujan hacia adelante, Nunca hay que tener temor… Yo estoy aquí para ayudar.

Refa Noor- 701 Life

Life is like a flower.Life is like a tower.It can crash and burn.It can grow as an elegantCherry blossomLife is dark, life is lightIt’s full of sunshine,It’s full of fright.Life, Life, Life.Live, laugh, love-Life can be a nightmareLife can be a fantasy dreamLife.

James Gittings-860

A look out the doorI wonder why I bother to moveBut I shrug, put on my clothes and walk out the doorI look around just not caring wishing to knowWhat is my reason to put grin thinking-Why anger boils to the top?Then I turn around and look at her faceI just can’t help, but be happyChange my perspective be happy, she saysThen I look she changes meA look out the door I wonder….I can’t but wait for a brighter tomorrow.

Maryann Jhangir-801Come Back to Life

When some one says“Hi, it changes yourWorld, you now knowYou have a friend, butWhen someone says bye”You now that you haveNo one, but to changeA way someone feels goodAbout himself/herself make someoneCome back to life.

Chance AndreLife

To understand meYou must go through painPain represents me in so many waysWaiting for the day.I endDon’t mistake me for emotion.Don’t judge howI just played the gameAnd lost.They tell me that reality is better than theDream. But I found out the hard way Nothing is what it seems!

Mohammad UsmanLife

Life for me is an ocean, There is too much of it.There are many fishes in the seaBut life is also like a rollercoasterIt has its ups and down Zanaya RogersWhat is Life?

Life is like a bumpy roadYou could crash, or drive foreverA book with no words, or a birdWithout its feathers.

Life is like Mount Everest

It can take a while to reach theTop. It takes determination, andYou’ll never know when to stop.

Life is like a rollercoaster, there’s ups and downs,Lefts and rights, but people wonder what is life!

Jasmin Rivera

Who’s there?I’m not scaredLife’s to short To be scaredTippity top, tippity topWho’s that?Maybe mom-Maybe dad-No it’s youI’m not scared-So tell meWho’s there?

Zanaya Rogers How does it feel?

How does it feel?To have a hurt heartNot knowing where to goOr where to startHow does if feel?To be freeTo float in air To cross the sea How does it feel?Just to dreamTo get upsetYou won’t scream----pause----Don’t get upsetYou know it’s realSo I ask againHow does it feel?

RESOURCESRed Hot Salsa - Bilingual Poems on Being Young and Latino in the United States (2005), Edited by Lori Marie Carlson. Introduction by Oscar Hijuelos. New York: Henry Holt & Company

Neighborhood Odes - A Poetry Collection (2005), By David Diaz and Gary Soto. London: Cengage Learning EMEA

Poster – Reach Out and Touch Somebody’s Mind, By Lindamichelle Barron. Photo by Leroy Henderson. Used with permission - Copyright 1989

Life Doesn’t Frighten Me at All (1993), By Maya Angelou. Illustrated by Jean-Michel Basquiat. Edited by Sara Jane Boyers. New York: Stewart, Tabori & Chang Inc

Poems used to inspire:• Spanish by Gary Soto• El Espanol: Ode to the Tortilla, Oda to the Torilla by Gina Valdes• I am from Quisquella la Bella by Amiris Ramirez

Poets used:• Amiris Ramirez• Gina Valdes• Gary Soto

Student BiosMichael PashayevI’m thirteen years old. I love to play sports, especially football (NFL). My dream is to become an ultimate fighter champion (UFC). I like to listen to music. I draw tattoos sometimes, also cartoons most of the time.

Copeland YoungI’m a very charismatic person, I love sports, I’m 12 years old. I’m very funny when I want to be.

Cesars HernandezI’m 13 years old. I go to the school Ditmas, I.S. 62. My favorite things to do is play Xbox, Wii and Ps3, I also like to play sports and go out.

Marvins HenriusI am 13 years old and was born in Long Island and raised in Brooklyn. My favorite thing to do is draw and play video games.

Aaron BernadinI am 13 ½ years old. My favorite thing to do is play sports and read.

Armando RuizI am 13 years old. I like to make quotes up such a “sometimes we must sacrifice 1 in order to move on”

Eduardo VázquezI am 13 years old. “Life is a mountain you may go down or go up if you choose to” Or “Life is a game you got to go through many levels to get your final goal”

Diamond WilliamsI am thirteen, I like to read or write. Writing is a way to express myself, I also express myself by playing in band.

Ivan VasquezI am 13. I am not a poet. I am a random person

Anyah PrattI love writing plays, poetry, and stories. I do not lack dental Hygiene.

Andy Vázquez I am 13 years old. I enjoy writing stories, poetry, and plays. I also enjoy drawing faces. (: (: etc. I also like wearing cool shoes and clothes.

Zanaya RogersMy name is Zanaya, but my friends call me Zanaya. I am 12 years old. I was born 4 months early. I’m a survivor! Enjoy my poems! Xoxox.

Kevin DamierI’m just 12 years old. I was born May 8, 1998. My favorite color is hot red.

Faha GhauriI’m 12. I like the colors orange and blue. I’m very clumsy. I like to have fun and I laugh a lot.

Genesis OreaI was born in Brooklyn raised in Brooklyn, I love to write, to express. I draw to paint to feel the color of art.

Aarlene VielotI lived in Brooklyn, New York for 3 years, moved to Florida and lived there for 8 years, lived in Georgia for nine months and moved back to New York. I am 13 years old and I love to dance. I also love sleeping with my teddy bear Yoi Yoi.

Aneesa AhmedI go to Ditmas I.S. 62. I am 12 years old. I have a happy and entertaining life! What’s not to like about me?

Jonathan HernandezI live in Brooklyn, New York, I play soccer and I am a musician. I am Mexican and always will be.

José LopézI live in Brooklyn, I play Basketball, Baseball and Soccer. My talent in school is band. I’m Dominican Word!

Farhad RahmanI live in Brooklyn 11218. I love drawing and playing baseball. My favorite color is red and blue, and I am one of five family members. :)

Vanessa Ana CamposI’m 12 years old. I have the weirdest family but all my friends are extremely weird and fun. I love writing about being heart broken and I love drawing.

Faith IyahenI am 13 years old. I like to write about reality and word conversely. I am one with my writings, poems, books, and short stories.

Alyana PierreI am 12 years old. I was born on the 9th day of July 1998. My mom passed away. My father also sick a step advance before death. There are only me and my big brother. I am the baby and the only girl. My favorite thing to do in party, dance, eat, sleep, play basketball, hang out, and live life and be me. I was born and raise in Brooklyn, New York. I can be the best. I also can be your worse nightmare. I am a Catholic. I live life to the fullest and should everyone else.

James GittingsI am fourteen. I like writing dark and disturbing stories, so I can show people what the world really is. I’m a happy and kind of person, too kind for my own good. I enjoy playing the guitar and to play video games. I do wish I had powers. Soon I will change the world through my writing and show the world is not always bright.

Yohance MolesteI like football. I hope to be a pro-football player. The positive I hope to be in are WB, RB< LB< TB or maybe QB. Before I achieve my gorals I’ll have to focus in school and good grades.

Sheefan NauthI was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. Both of my parents are Guyanese and I have one sister. I love listening to music and drawing randomly. In the future, I have a dream of becoming a fashion designer.

Marysol VelézI am 14 years old. I live in Brooklyn, New York. I was also raised here too. In my free time, I like to read and practice nail art. I live with both of my parents and I only have one younger sister. I live very close to my relatives.

María RoblesI am Mexican and 14 years old. I live in Brooklyn now, but was born in Queens. I like laying volleyball and chilling with friends. I have tow step sisters and a baby sister and a brother. Oh boy too much trouble. I love them.

Melissa IsaacI am 13 years old. My birthday is August 9th. I attend the school Ditmas, I live in Brooklyn, NY and I like to have a good time.

Iliana RodríguezMy favorite colors are orange and green. I love basketball and football. I love Kobe (24) Lakers!

Zoheeb ZafarIn my life I’ve written books by myself from fifty to one hundred pages. My favorite sport is basketball. I’ve been put on the editorial team for Dr. Rose’s class.

Zully VázquezI am thirteen years old. I am Mexican America and I am very proud! I love eating tostadas and frijoles (beans). I lived in Brooklyn my whole life! I have many memories of when I was small! Family reunions are the best! I’m in eighth grade and I have two brothers! I love my whole family and without them I wouldn’t have all the care I have now!

Brenda MoralesMy name is Brenda Moralez, I’m thirteen years old. I’m Mexican American. I like to sleep, eat, draw and read.

Trinell YoungI am proud to be right in my home town with my special family. With old friends and new friends and even a dog. With good times, and bad times it’s true love we share. So I’ve found a place where everyone will know my happy mustache face, this is the family show. HAHA

Shahrooz KhanI’m 14 years old, I’m Muslim. I like Math, science, oh and games, by games I mean video and sports. I like basketball the most. My goal is to get a scholarship to Harvard.

Bridgette BabbI’m Trinidadian and Canadian. I like to sing even though I can’t and I like to dance.

Iqra ZahidI am a 14 years old. I am a Paki girl in Ditmas, I .S 62, I have lived in Brooklyn my whole life. Even though I have lived in Brooklyn my whole life, I have not forgotten the traditions and values of being a Muslim and I am proud to say that without my culture and religion I’m nothing!

Abdulkamal AjeleroI live in Brooklyn New York and I am Nigerian but I was born here. On my free time I love to listen to music and play sports.

Aisha ZafarI’m in 860. I like food, but I am not fat! I like to help people. My favorite color is but. I am simply me.

Amando SanchezI am a great person. I’m in the eighth grade. I like to play soccer and I like to learn.

Jasmin RiveraI live in New Lots Avenue, East New York with my Mom and Dad and Brothers. I’m 14 years old as of March 8th, my birthday. I love to draw and do sports of all kind. I eat, breath, and sleep fashion. It’s basically my life. I am Puerto Rican and Barbados. My favorite color is Lavender, purple. Sometimes light greenish blue. I’m in love with Mohawks as you can see I’m wearing one. I love wearing sneakers, sweat pants, hoodies, and tang tops. I dedicate my poems to my brothers, to always be yourself, and not what other people want you to be. I love you both. (Jonathan and Jayden)

Christopher BudhramI am 14 years old and was born in Brooklyn, New York. I like to travel and hang out.

Shenelle SmithI love basketball and hanging with friends. The best part about being a part of this book is the ever lasting experience that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I hope you enjoy!

Tabitha FrançoisI was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. I am 13 years old. I love to dance and laugh. When I’m not dancing, I’m probably hanging out with friends.

Chance AndreI am thirteen years old. I like working out and playing my guitar.

Muhammad UsmanI am 14 years old. I like to skateboard. I also like to pay attention in class…sometimes.

Student Reflections On the Dual Language Poetry Writing Workshop

Chance AndreI think it’s good to have a poetry class during language.

Marysol VelézI think that having a class like this is a good idea. You get to express your thoughts in language and you also arrange your ideas in such a way that people would love to read.

Melissa IsaacI personally think that it is a great idea to have a poetry class during language, because not only do we get to express ourselves, we get to express ourselves is a different language.

Abdulkamal AjeleroI think that this is a good idea for a class because we get to express ourselves.

Faith IyahenI think this is a good idea because it lets you express yourself in a different language. Its like glossing over and polishing up real talent. It makes it beautiful and better than it was. It’s like if you talk and it translates into Spanish, so many people can read and understand the others talents.

Diamond WilliamsI think this was a great idea so student can express themselves and how they feel about the school and friends

AnonymousThis book is a great idea, so you can express your feelings.

AnonymousI think that writing pomes help you express yourself. I’m thankful that we have it cause not everybody has it.

Ronnie YoungI think doing a poem book is a new and exciting way to express yourself.

Aarlene VielotI enjoyed this program. I think that it is really important to learn different things by translating our writing to Spanish. I wish creative writing was this much fun.

Aneesa AhmedThis program was awesome and helpful. I enjoyed writing poems. We were all being really creative.

Kenyel HallI am here because I wanted to make a new book. I will do my best.

Tamyra WilliamsThis experience with writing this book is one of a kind. Everyone has the chance to express themselves freely with no comments about it.

Jasmin RiveraAlways be yourself and not what other people want you to be. That’s what I told myself during my experience by contributing in this book, by writing my poems.

James GittinsMy mom had introduced me to many poets and writers. After reading so much I started writing dark, dark stories.

Genesis OreaI think having poetry in Spanish class is awesome. Gives me freedom to write poetry in a different language. Poetry is really affecting my point of view in Spanish. Poetry rocks!

Anyah PrattI think that writing poetry in espanol is exciting and wonderful.

Andy VázquezMy feelings for combining espanol and poetry was fun cause we learned something new and showed our feelings.

Zanaya RogersIt was Awesome!!!

Marvin HenriusI felt that it got us to expand ourselves in two languages.

Aneesa AhmedI felt that everybody enjoyed and had fun writing/reading poetry.

Aarlene VielotI believe that poetry express ourselves and to do it in Spanish class and translate our poetry to Spanish gives us a good opportunity. I liked it.

Ambre HallI think Dr. Rose and her workshop gave me a chance to freely express myself, and take a load off from middle school drama.

Armando RuizI hope people enjoy the book.

Eduardo VázquezI feel happy that people will read our cool and awesome poems!

Jonathan HernandezI feel happy that we get to write our poems in English or Spanish.

Literacy Consultant’s Reflections

It was a joy to me to work with a peer colleague and lover of poetry on this workshop.

While I have developed dual language –Spanish/English, French/English and Hebrew/English collections with students, I have always done them as the solo coach facilitator.

To work on this dual language poetry collaboration with a foreign language instructor who loved poetry, was a pleasure. It added strength/authenticity to the duality of the collection. Each of us infused our writing methodologies, our particular cultural insights, our perceptions as feeling women, and our favorite literary formats/themes. We were able to model for the students a collaborative and metacognitive approach to the topics and to the varied anchor poems presented.

I noted how in the poetry writing many themes helped the vocabulary and topics of Ms. Rodríguez’s course come alive and be applicable to the poetry task.

The students identified for themselves their own spatial, auditory, musical, linguistic, interpersonal and intrapersonal styles in writing. The art was initially done in class. The editorial process involved the artists in working with the work as a whole and learning a bit about illustration as an art form.

For many of the students , this was a brand new opportunity to preview a more sophisticated form of foreign language study-one used in AP courses in high school-where the literature of the foreign language and its culture are part of the tenets of instruction. Both Ms. Rodríguez and I found it very effective for both foreign language instruction and English language arts writing to offer this analysis of Spanish language poetry/culture at the middle school level.

As is evident by the student comments about this poetry writing workshop, they found the use of poetry as a dual language genre for expression of their feelings and perspectives, made the experience a meaningful, emotional and richly rewarding academic one.

Both I and Ms. Rodríguez know that for the students the duality of this foreign language /English language poetry workshop helped to authenticate their diverse cultures, backgrounds and perspectives on life as they live it plus their futures.

To their reading and writing futures, multiple languages- many hearts- universalities revealed and uniqueness treasured.

Dr. Rose Cherie ReissmanAuthor of The Evolving Multicultural Classroom

Alignment to the Common Core ELA Standards

READING

Key Ideas and Details-Standards 1-3 with its focus on published poets works in Spanish and in English, students had extensive training in textual evidence, text analysis, theme discussion and line for line analysis.Craft and structure- Standards 4-6 the students worked extensively on poetry words and phrases, structures of poems in both languages, and point of view

WRITING STANDARDS

Text Types and PurposesStandard 1-Students wrote arguments and used poetry genre format to support these argumentStandard 3 Students wrote narratives to develop real and imagined eventsProduction and Distribution of Writing-Students worked toward all the standard 4-6 goals and published their workRange of WritingStandard 10 Students wrote routinely over extended time frames to develop the anthology.

SPEAKING AND LISTENING SKILLS

Comprehension and CollaborationStandards 1-3 Students routinely rehearsed their poetry writing by engaging effectively in a range of collaborative discussions, they analyzed information in diverse media and delineated speaker’s argument claims.

LANGUAGE STANDARDS

For both English and Foreign Language –SpanishStudents worked on the following standard applications.Knowledge of languageStandards 1- they used language and its conventions when writing, speaking, reading and listeningVocabulary and Acquisition UseStandards 4-6 used multiple meaning words , demonstrated use of figurative language, and acquired grade appropriate general academic and domain specific words.

LAST WORD

Anesa Shabbir

I think the idea of having poetry in a foreign language class is really good. It’s kind of like multi-tasking while learning Spanish you also lean about poetry. Combine those together and you get bilingual poetry. I think that by mixing these together, both subjects generate enhanced interest.

READER RESPONSES