I think as teachers it is essential for us to get to know our students, especially where they come from. This can tell us ways to teach them more efficiently or how to incorporate their culture in the lessons. I think an "I AM" poem is a great tool that permits us to see inside the students culture and what is important to them. It would be a great ice breaker for the first day of school. I did one of these poems in my MAS 280 class and I would like to share it because it gives you insight into my life, culture and what is important to me.

I am from…..

I am from keys

from toothbrush and hand soap

I am from the branding iron circle

desert

I am from the snapdragon

The palo verde

whose long gone limbs I remember

as if they were my own.

I’m from enchiladas and tamales

From Nana Fala and Tata Manuel

I’m from piñatas and loteria

and from playing guitars.

I’m from portate bien and dar gracias

and sana sana colita de rana.

I’m from throwing quetes on New Years

I’m from SanDiego and Obregon

Menudo and posole.

From a nana who doesn’t sit until you eat

Who waits for her 10 kids, 22 grandkids and 21 great grandkids to feast

With your red bugambilia in your hair posed in a chair

On my closet door

So I can see your face every time I dress.

Valeria Valdez and August 28, 2014