1. “Black Box” Assignment

2. Directions Turn to page 84, “Black Box.”
We will analyze this poem together. Then, you will answer a set of questions on your own sheet of notebook paper.
Lastly, you will pay homage to Devon Hope’s poem by composing your own “Black Box” poem, with a title to suit your theme.
Exceptional poems will
make it to the wall of fame.

5. On the handout provided, answer the following question in as much detail as possible. THEME of your own poem: 1.) What “boxes” do others put you in? 2.) What “boxes” do you put yourself in? In other words, where do you fit in or belong? 3.) Do you agree with these labels? Why or why not? 4.) What are some of the stereotypes associated with these labels? 5.) What are some of the advantages of being viewed or perceived like this? 6.) What are some of the disadvantages of being viewed or perceived like this As you begin constructing your poem, take some of the descriptive words from your answers, and turn them into figurative language. Come up with at least 1 example of a simile, metaphor, personification, and alliteration. You may also challenge yourself to use any other literary devices we’ve learned this year. Example: People think I’m a geek. Simile: I am as brilliant as Einstein. Or I am brilliant like Einstein. Metaphor: I am Sheldon. Personification: My brain forces me to choose. Alliteration: A guy who gets good grades instead of girls.

6. Sample Box I am a template A pattern to follow The rough draft
Some people think they can use me Take me out Display to the world Then toss me back in my box Like a piece of clothing Picked off a rack Exposed Tags still hang from the sleeves Loneliness lingers In the light of the store window
I am a template
A pattern to follow
The rough draft
Never the final
You put me in the box
Called “sample” that screams and hollers to break free
Because I’m not good enough to be your one and only.