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Judith Ortiz Cofer says, “The Island travels with you.” What part of your culture, family, or identity do you feel “travels” with you everywhere you go?

Prompt: Judith Ortiz Cofer says, “The Island travels with you.” What part of your culture, family, or identity do you feel “travels” with you everywhere you go? Prompt Response: I feel like no matter what country you go to everyone will know that you are American. I think that most other countries have fairly negative opinions on us for various reasons. I'm not saying that they're no unwarranted, but it would be nice to know we're not defined by out shortcomings. I do however think we should brush up on our geography skills... Summary: Today in class we did a commonlit assignment. Reflection: I have definitely been affected, seen, and sadly believed in a variety of single stories. I hope that more people have experiences that break their single stories and we all become a more accepting people.

Which learning method do you enjoy the most? Class discussions, worksheet work, or hands-on activities. Select one and tell why.

 Prompt: Which learning method do you enjoy the most? Class discussions, worksheet work, or hands-on activities. Select one and tell why.  Prompt Response: I enjoy discussions the most as it often results in no assignments we have to complete. I also enjoy hearing the opinions and thought processes of others, which is possible during discussions. Although I don't always participate, I'll definitely try more in the future. Summary: Today we read another text about stereotypes and did another assignment about them. Reflection: I think it's so sad that people keep being negatively affected by stereotypes in 2026. I think society should be progressing forward a lot more but I don't think it is...

Write about an experience when someone assumed something about you because of a stereotype. What was the situation, and what did you do?

Prompt: Write about an experience when someone assumed something about you because of a stereotype. What was the situation, and what did you do? Prompt Response: One time when someone stereotyped me was during a presentation in 8th grade. When I was about to present, someone shouted "Yasss queen" when I presented which made me feel embarrassed... I didn't really do anything as the teacher said something, but I probably should've said something. I still see the person who said that around the halls sometimes and I hope that they changed. Summary: Today in class we watched a video about stereotypes and then did a written assignment about them. Reflection: I found the assignment to be challenging as I couldn't think of some of the stereotypes needed. With the help of friends however I was able to complete it before class ended.

"Girl" by Jamaica Kincaid

 Prompt Response: One gender specific expectation I have faced is being outspoken. I feel like American cultures emphasizes that men are louder and should act as leaders in many settings. For example, my grandma expect3d me to give a speech at my grandpa's birthday out of the blue which I couldn't deliver. This is hard because I'm more of a quiet and private person, so I don't like to talk much to people I don't know. Summary: Today in class we answered questions about a new poem we read. Reflection: I enjoyed the cultural aspects reflected in the poem, especially the bits about food/gardening. I do think it's sad so much pressure can be put on a kid.

My "I Too" Poem

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Prompt Response:    This is the "I Too" poem I created:  I too am patient, When I plant the seed I wait Knowing one day I will sow something  Much greater than the time I spent sitting On that little step. When the sun starts to set I know The seconds I endured Will let me grow taller Than those who say inside Wasting away- Fixed upon their flashy lights- All while I look up at the stars And smile. The inspiration behind my poem is my mother's garden, as it takes patience to be able to grow things. My mom also calls herself, my brother, and I impatient which I think is untrue. Summary: Today in class we read a literary work criticizing the unfair expectations of being a wife. Reflection:  I wasn't too nervous presenting my poem to the class. I did mispronounce a few words but I think it went fairly well.

Write about a time when you did something out of the norm. What was it and how did others react?

  Write about a time when you did something out of the norm. What was it and how did others react?  Prompt Response:  One time where I did something gout of the norm was change my hair style. When I went to my barber, I decided right then and there I wanted a change and my friends were very surprised. In the end, I'm glad I did it and I'm also appreciative of my friends' support even though it was a rather menial change. Summary: Today in class we finished our notes on gender roles and turned in our assignment on said notes. Reflection:  I think that gender roles can be helpful for some people yet hurt others much worse. I think that someone who was born a man that doesn't align with their respective gender role will feel trapped and resent those who force it on them.  

Describe a time when you felt completely lost.

  Prompt: Describe a time when you felt completely lost.  Prompt Response:  The first thing that comes to my mind when I think of a time when I felt lost has to be when I first came to high school. On the first day, I remember a huge crowd in front of the school that was barely moving and not being able to find any of my friends. I had no idea where my classes were or if I had anyone in my periods. Despite this, I got through it, and I gradually acclimated to high school life. Now as a senior, I'm proud I got through that in order to have a much better time now. Summary: Today in class we turned in our poems and started taking notes on Gender Roles. Reflection:  As we went through the lesson, I realized my understanding of gender roles is incomplete at best. This has led me to the conclusion that they haven't really been a big part of my life, which is interesting to say the least.