Middle School ELA Poetry Lesson~Autobiography in 5 Short Chapters

This packet contains activities and questions to accompany the poem "Autobiography in Five Short Chapters" by Portia Nelson. This poem is very meaningful and unforgettable, and you can reference its valuable lesson throughout your school year.

First, students will independently complete a close read of the poem. A YouTube video of the poem can then be shown. We include the link to the video that we show. All students love watching a video!

Next, there are questions to guide students in understanding the deeper meaning of the poem. After a discussion of the questions, students will take a look at their own lives and complete an activity in which they relate the meaning of the poem to themselves.

Finally, you can tie it all in to a lesson on treating others kindly and maintaining good behavior in the classroom to have a successful year. Handouts are included for each step of the lesson.

This is a lesson with some "meat" to it that is perfect for the second or third day of school but can also be used on any day of the school year! It is a poetry lesson and a character building lesson in one!