"Mama Is a Sunrise" and "Hairs" are both a child's tribute to mom. "Dusting" is a poem you haven't read yet, but it is also written about a mom. As you read, be aware of your response to each selection. Do you identify with any one passage more than the others? They are linked to the book icons below.

Short Answer Prompt:

Which selection did you feel the strongest about? What was your response and why? Use the chosen passage to explain your reasons.

Then write a simile or metaphor to describe your mom, or someone very important in your life. It does not need to be a complete verse. The comparison can be a one-liner.

Remember a simile compares two things using "like" or "as." A metaphor compares two things directly. Examples from "Mama is a Sunrise"

When she comes sweet-talking in the room,

she warms us
like grits and gravy, (simile)
and we rise up shining.
Even at night-time Mama is a sunrise
that promises tomorrow and tomorrow. (metaphor)

NOTE: There is not one right answer, or one right choice of passage. Each student will have a different response. The quality of your answer is based on your explanation and use of the selection to support your reasons.

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Don't forget to include all three key elements needed for a solid 2 point response!

1. Introduce the passage you chose as the one with the strongest effect on you.
2. Explain your response and why.
3. Use the chosen passage to support and help explain your reasons.
4. Write a simile or metaphor about your mom, or a significant person in your life.

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Choose ONE of the following three options for writing your response.

1.		If Microsoft Word is available on your computer, this document allows you to type your answer, use spell check, save, copy/paste text, and/or print the page to turn in. << Click here to open a word form for your response.
2.		This file can be printed, and allows you to use your best penmanship (yes, real writing instead of typing), and turn it in to your teacher. << Click here to open a .pdf file for your response.
3.		If you are a student taking this class through IA, you will need to use this document for your response. Follow directions on your checklist to copy/paste into an e-mail. << Click here for the text.

• evaluates strength of response to each passage, and selects the passage with the strongest response
• develops thoughtful interpretations of the personal response
• makes thoughtful comparisons with sufficient, relevant evidence from chosen passage to explain response
• writes a simile or metaphor about mom, or a significant person in their life.

• evaluates limited response to passages, basic or superficial reasoning for selecting chosen passage, may not consider strength of response
• develops average or simple interpretations of the personal response
• attempts to use evidence from chosen passage to explain response
• attempts to write a metaphor or simile about mom, or a significant person in their life.

• little or no understanding of a passage creating a strong response, no response or reason, and no use of text
• may answer "I don't know."
• no example of own