1. Write a Self-portrait Poem
Objectives:
To generate similes and metaphors that represent various aspects of your lives. 
To write self-portrait poems containing similes and metaphors.
Focusing Question:
How can you use similes and metaphors to describe various aspects of yourself?
Focusing Question | Mini Lesson | Writer’s Work Time | Lesson Summary

2. Similes and metaphors compare two unlike things to make an original and vivid image. Similes use “like” or “as” to make the comparison. Metaphors do not. (“a tornado in twirling tights!”)
What are some of the author’s experiences in the poems in your packet? How do your experiences compare with the author’s experiences?
Use Handout 1.1a: Poetry Packet (Self-portrait Poem Section)
Mini Lesson
Focusing Question | Mini Lesson | Writer’s Work Time | Lesson Summary

3. Writer’s Work Time Go to Step 1 of the Online Classroom.
Log in to your classroom, click Step 1 and watch JT’s Think Aloud: Self-portrait Poem with Metaphor and Simile.
Create metaphors and similes that describe your personality using the Self-Portrait Brainstorm (1.2a)
4. Write a self-portrait poem using metaphors and similes in your writer’s notebook.
Writer’s Work Time
Focusing Question | Mini Lesson | Writer’s Work Time | Lesson Summary

4. Lesson Summary
How can you use similes and metaphors to describe various aspects of yourself? What experiences did you write about?
Share your writing with a partner.
What do you like about your partner’s poem?
What similes and metaphors stand out?
What does the self-portrait reveal about the author?
Review Poetry Checklist (1.1b)
Focusing Question | Mini Lesson | Writer’s Work Time | Lesson Summary