Students wrote poems in the ‘Open Mic’ style after reading the poem by Black poet and playwright Zetta Elliot’s piece, ‘Mic Check.’
Lesson Note: Making your own work is really important. [We] made work in the face of 1000 no’s by just going and doing it ourselves. How to grow as an artist is to do things that you don’t know how to do.”– Zoe Lister-Jones, Rich Roll Podcast
Ms. Romano, 7th Grade
I’m Unique
by Kareen H.
I have to say something. I have to say that I’m unique. I have to say this today because I am unique, like the eagle that grabs fish out of the water. Like ideas that just flow around. But don’t have fear it’ll to in one ear down your spine where you should find love and happiness.
Ms. Turner, 6th Grade
Motivation
by Jamarion C.
I’m here to say
how to really start your
day I say it today
because I love the morning
for me to play my words
will bounce to you like
basketballs don’t fear
it’ll go through your head
and then your heart will
start to hear like a drum
my heart beats with
joy I try and try to make
the day go my way
Keep it Sweet!
by Neveah C.
Mic Check
One two
One two
Is this thing on?
I want to say something! Everybody listen!
I need to say keep it sweet don’t let it
beat you in your sleep. Don’t worry, I’ll keep it sweet.
I have to say it today because some of ya’ll don’t listen.
My words bounce off the sage like a sentence bounces
off the page! Don’t fear it’ll go right into your ear
and then your heart finally disappears
you have to learn to earn. My attention
goes wild on your first impression. I love all kinds, even
mine. You’re unique like a boutique, but for me,
you’re all I need.
Ms. Romano, 7th Grade
Open Mic Poem
by Hasan A.
I want to say pigments. I have to say it today because
of immigrants. Cops always put them in encampments
because of their false figments
on the ‘illegal’ immigrants. Always keeping vigilant
of the police wanting to cause
their document aliens, wanting them to leave
because of their pigments.
Mrs. Turner, 6th Grade
Clear the Fear
by Imani C.
I need to say I’m glad I’m here
I’m trying to overcome this fear
I’ll try not to disappear and keep my mind
clear
I’ve finally got over my fear
Now everyone’s waiting to hear
My heart starts to clear my
mind of worry-tears
Now I’m not afraid and I
have cleared the fear
Open Mic
by Marie B.
Mic check
One two
One two
Is this thing on?
I want to say something
everybody listen
I have to say that I am brave
I have to say it today because I don’t show it
My words bounce off the stage like if would
bounce off the page
don’t have fear
It’ll go into your ear
then your heart will start to clear.
