Worksheet on Checking Out Me History
English
Grade 6
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
This worksheet provides analysis and annotation activities focused on the poem 'Checking Out Me History'. Students will explore poetic techniques, themes, and historical references to deepen understanding of power and identity in literature.
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Worksheet on Checking Out Me History
Subject: EnglishGrade: Grade 6
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade Grade 6
A
Introduction and Context
This modern poem, 'Checking Out Me History' by John Agard, challenges traditional historical narratives by emphasizing the importance of personal and cultural identity. The poet contrasts the Eurocentric history often taught in schools with the rich, diverse histories of marginalized communities. Through vivid imagery and poetic techniques, Agard advocates for recognizing one's own roots and questioning authoritative histories that may exclude or distort certain perspectives. The poem employs devices such as repetition, metaphor, and vivid imagery to underscore its themes of empowerment and cultural pride. As students analyze the poem, they will explore how language shapes our understanding of history and identity, and how poetic techniques reinforce the message of resistance and self-awareness. Key phrases like 'bandage up me eyes with me history' highlight the suppression of personal history by dominant narratives, while references to figures like Toussaint L'Ouverture emphasize the importance of remembering overlooked heroes. This worksheet aims to deepen students' understanding of how poetry can be used as a form of social commentary and empowerment.
B
Analysis of Poetic Techniques
Identify the poetic devices used in the following phrases from the poem. Provide examples and explain their effect.
1.
What poetic device is used in the phrase 'bandage up me eyes with me history,' and what is its effect?
[2 marks]2.
Identify the device in 'chain gang' and explain its significance in the poem.
[2 marks]3.
What is the effect of repeating 'dem tell me' throughout the poem?
[2 marks]4.
Describe the imagery created by the phrase 'me eye in me mind' and its importance.
[2 marks]C
Themes and Message
The poem explores themes of cultural pride, resistance to oppression, and the importance of personal history. Agard emphasizes that official histories often neglect or distort the stories of marginalized groups. By asserting his own identity and recalling overlooked heroes, he encourages readers to recognize their roots and question authoritative narratives. The poem advocates for self-awareness, cultural understanding, and the power of individual and collective history to shape identity.
1.
What are the main themes of 'Checking Out Me History'? Provide specific examples from the poem.
[3 marks]2.
What message does the poet want to convey about history and personal identity?
[3 marks]D
Creative Writing Prompt
Create your own short poem that challenges an official story or celebrates an overlooked hero from history. Use poetic techniques like repetition, metaphor, or imagery. Follow this checklist:
1.
Write your poem here. Ensure it includes at least one poetic device from the checklist.
[5 marks]E
Personal Reflection
Answer the following question to reflect on your understanding of the poem's message.
1.
Write a short paragraph explaining how understanding different histories can impact your view of yourself and your culture.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet