The poem describes the experience of learning to swim. In the beginning, the speaker feels afraid and worried about swimming but cannot swim. By the end, the speaker feels amazed and excited because they have learned to swim and are no longer afraid. The speaker imagines swimming as different sea creatures and feels water drifting through their mind as they twist and glide, having left their fear behind in the sand.
8. Learning to swim - JUDITH NICHOLLS
Today I am
dolphin-over-the waves,
roach and stickleback,
silver mermaid,
turning tide,
ribbon-weed
or sprat.
Water drifts through my mind;
I twist, I glide,
leave fear behind in sand,
wander a land
of turtle, minnow, seal
where whale is king.
Today – I swim!
10. How do you feel?
1. The death of a favourite pet.
2. Your friends leave you so you have
to go for a swim by yourself.
3. A roller –coaster ride at the show.
4. Wondering if you have passed
your last exam.
5. Watching your computer working
on a new and difficult task.
6. Escape without injury from a road
accident.
11. 7. You can’t wait for the race to begin.
8. Licking your lips at the sight of two
huge juicy burgers.
9. You can’t wait for the race to begin.
10. Your best friend has failed his/her
exam.
11. Watching a scary movie on TV.
12. Telling yourself that you are going
to do your best to win.
13. Receiving a birthday gift that you
really want.
