Amanda Gorman's "Earthwise"

Anticipatory Set

Amanda Gorman, the U.S. Youth Poet Laureate, shared this poem "Earthwise" in 2018 on the stage in front of other climate activists. Her words and images call us to action for the environment. Have you thought about what Earth looks like from space? Listen for other news-related references as you listen to this poem. Watch how the poet's hands add to the meaning, as well as the pacing of her speech. 

Video

Questions

1. What is your main takeaway from the poem?
2. What is one thing you notice and one thing you wonder?
3. Name some words that stand out to you. What are some examples of words that sounded good together and why? 
4. What examples did you notices of how hand movements and pacing add to the meaning?
5. What is Amanda Gorman’s purpose for writing this text? Summarize the poem, beginning with a statement of the central theme of the poem.
6. What are some historical facts or events included in her poem?
7. What personal connections do you make with “Earthrise”? 
8. How can an individual act, or "bring light," in responsible ways that honor our planet?
9. What lessons can we learn about sustainable living by studying nature?

Activities

1. Using evidence from the text/videos, compare “Earthrise” and “Reclaiming the Honorable Harvest: Indigenous Knowledge for a Sustainable Future" the TED Talk by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
2. Amanda Gorman uses many creative metaphors to describe the Earth. Write a description of the earth or a small piece of earth using a metaphor or descriptive language. 
3. Read aloud the poem. First practice by yourself and then in front of someone else or a group.
4. Make a poster with an environmental theme with a simple image and a few words that calls people to action. This service activity describes how to make an advocacy poster.