Just Because Poems
Stereotypes play a huge role in prejudice. All of the characters on the swim team are misfits and
are judged because of stereotypes. As we continue to read, we get more information on each of
these characters and discover there is a lot more to them than one character trait, or stereotype.
Here’s your chance to set the record straight. You are going to write a “Just Because” poem
from a character’s perspective. Work on voice (develop mood and passion) while including
quality details that deliver your character’s message in a clear way.
From Lord of the Flies:
(From the Littluns)
Just because I’m younger than you, it doesn’t mean I don’t have opinions,
Just because I’m younger than you, it doesn’t mean I can’t help solve problems,
(From Piggy)
Just because I’m fat, it doesn’t mean I choose to be,
Just because I wear glasses, it doesn’t mean I can’t see solutions to problems,
Just because I’m different, it doesn’t mean I’m less important than you,
Your final task is to apply what you’ve learned about voice to the world around you. Look at
our society and pinpoint some groups or people that you feel are not being heard and write a
new “Just Because” poem from their perspective. Perhaps you will write a poem from your own
point of view. Ideas: a shy person, a parent, someone living in poverty, a person with a
handicap, a minority, a fat person, a failing student, a pet, a straight-A student, or you!
Thinking of people they might be speaking to will help you develop their perspective.
Both “Just Because” poems need to be at least 8 lines.