“Who Am I” – Writing SKills and Self-Esteem for Inner-City Elementary School Students

The “Who Am I” Essay contest was developed at the request of Mary Eleanor Cole’s daughter, Natalie, as a memorial to her mother, a member of Altrusa of 47 years.
Purpose of the essay was to be literacy-based, of benefit to disadvantaged youth, and of benefit to the community, built around a specific subject, grammar mastery, building self-respect, self-knowledge and expression. This contest coincided with Black History Month. The Essay Contest was designed as a character building exercise with a writing contest. All fifth-grade students of The Dufrocq School, an inner-city school, were eligible to participate in this literacy project that culminated in composing an essay entitled, “Who Am I”. The contest was developed to promote improving literacy levels by organizing thoughts into an essay, promoting life skills as well as academic.
One of the main hidden problems in disadvantaged neighborhoods is the prevalence of impulsive behaviors. Psychologists have shown that he ability to organize thoughts into a rational sequence and follow directions when necessary are essential to curbing the prevalence of impulsive behaviors.
The guidelines included criteria for content, presentation and deadlines. Working with the teachers our goal was accomplished.