Paper Bag Speech Assignment
Directions:
In class this year, we will be working as a team for nine months. In order to get to know to each other
and establish a foundation for our collaboration, you will give a brief “paper bag speech” to introduce yourself
to the class. Choose 5 objects (or pictures of objects if it is more practical) that reveal who you are – one object
that symbolizes you and four objects that may show us your interests, your favorite things, and/or what
is important to you. Your symbolic object should NOT represent you in a literal way. Be creative!
Write your name and class period on the front of the bag. On the back of the bag, include a list of your 5
objects AND a written explanation of why your symbolic object represents you (it is probably easiest to tape,
glue, or staple a piece of paper with your written explanation to the back of the bag – and yes, it may be typed).
Here’s an example of a good written explanation:
A pair of sneakers represents me because I am reliable and strong-willed. As a daughter, sister, friend, and
teacher, I never want to disappoint people who depend on me. When others need me most for the grueling
marathons in their lives, I try my best to support their most difficult steps. Determined, I stick to the path
leading to the finish line, and perhaps at times – just like an old pair of sneakers that refuses to be discarded
– I can be too stubborn. However, I try to be open to journeying on different paths that lead to the ultimate
destination.
Note: I will keep your bag, but not your objects.
Grading:
Has name and class period on front of bag
_____ / 1 pt.
Includes five objects revealing who you are (listed on back of bag)
_____ / 5 pts.
One of the 5 objects is symbolic, creative, and demonstrates critical thinking
_____ / 3 pts.
Written explanation contains a focused, persuasive, well-written thesis statement.
_____ / 2 pts.
Written explanation:
- Focus: describes who you are in relation to the symbol
- Detail: uses details to demonstrate personality traits/characteristics
- Style: includes developed sentences demonstrating thoughtful word choice, free of mechanical
errors (including grammar), ideas flow clearly
_____ / 9 pts.
Total: ________ / 20 pts.