I-Poetry

Creating an I-Poem

Writing "I poems" from your personal learning story  creative activity that fosters introspection and self-expression. It will allow you to distil the essence of your personal narrative into concise, poetic lines while maintaining the authenticity of your voice and deepening self-awareness; an opportunity to shed further light on your learning or provide another perspective

'I poems' are personal poems focusing on your perspective and your inner voice. Each line usually begins with 'I' followed by a thought, feeling, action, or reflection.

Activity:

1. Read over your learning story quietly or aloud and familiarise yourself with the content. 

2. Identify Key Sentiments and Actions

Underline or highlight sentences or phrases that express strong emotions, significant actions, or pivotal reflections.

3. Extract 'I Statements'

Rewrite these highlighted segments into 'I statements'.  For example:

3. • • Learning Story: "I felt uncertain about the decision I made but knew it was necessary."

     • Poem Line: "I felt uncertain but knew it was necessary."

4. Craft the Poem

     Arrange your 'I statements' into a pleasing format. Think about rhythm, flow, and emphasis while arranging lines. 'I' statements should be most of the poem however, be creative, if you want to include non-'I' lines you can. This is your poem.

5. Revise and Polish

Edit your poem for clarity and impact. You might want to add imagery, metaphors, or similes to enhance emotional depth.

6. Share and Reflect

Consider who you might want to share your poems with and discuss how the poem-writing process might deepen your reflections.

Examples:

Original Learning Story Excerpt:
"I remember the moment I realized how much I had grown. It was during a conversation with my mentor. She said, 'You’ve really matured,' and I felt a surge of pride. At the same time, I couldn’t forget the doubts I carried along the way."

Transformed into an I Poem:
I remember the moment I realised I had grown.
I was in a conversation with my mentor.
I heard her say, 'You’ve really matured.'
I felt a surge of pride.
I carried doubts along the way.
I learned to trust myself.

Leading

I questioned if I was ready to lead.
I wondered if others could see my uncertainty.
I doubted my ability to inspire trust.

I started to listen more closely to my team.
I discovered the strength in collaboration and shared vision.
I learned to trust my instincts, although I am still unsure at times.

I face challenges and try to be resilient.
I celebrate successes, both big and small.
I try to see my flaws as opportunities for growth.

I walk a bit taller as my confidence has grown.
I think I believe in myself.