I am what I am poems are simple, one-stanza poems based on the exercise in Tom Romano’s book Crafting Authentic Voice (2004). Starting with “I am what I am”, students show instead of tell about who they are. We hope you enjoy these examples.
I am what I am
By Jaylen
I am quick, fast, in a hurry.
Like when I am on the soccer field, juking the people.
Like when I fly past my homework in a hurry.
Done!
I score the grades like I score the points.
I don’t even bother to wipe the sweat off my face on my homework, just like soccer.
And that’s why I am what I am.
I am what I am
By Joel
I am what I am.
You can catch me on the court putting the ball between my legs.
Boom! I strike fast, start to slow down.
I look at the backboard, I step back and shoot the basketball.
But I really shoot for the stars.
Swoosh!
I am what I am
By Jesus
I am what I am. On the first day of school, I was nervous like a cat.
When I sat on the chair, I would freeze like a lollipop.
But now, since I know the class, I am not nervous anymore.
Now when I come to class I’m ready to learn.
I am what I am
By Jaylen
I am quick, fast, in a hurry.
Like when I am on the soccer field, juking the people.
Like when I fly past my homework in a hurry.
Done!
I score the grades like I score the points.
I don’t even bother to wipe the sweat off my face on my homework, just like soccer.
And that’s why I am what I am.
I am what I am
By Joel
I am what I am.
You can catch me on the court putting the ball between my legs.
Boom! I strike fast, start to slow down.
I look at the backboard, I step back and shoot the basketball.
But I really shoot for the stars.
Swoosh!
I am what I am
By Jesus
I am what I am. On the first day of school, I was nervous like a cat.
When I sat on the chair, I would freeze like a lollipop.
But now, since I know the class, I am not nervous anymore.
Now when I come to class I’m ready to learn.