VOCABULARY
What does the word empty mean in the poem?
Something that has nothing inside.
(E.g., “the ring from an empty Cola can”)
What is the main emotion expressed in the poem?
Sadness or feeling unwanted.
If you were one of the objects in the poem (e.g., broken toy, empty can), which would you be and why?
Accept any answer with simple reasoning !!
In the poem, what does overgrown mean in “a garden overgrown with weeds”?
It means the garden has too many plants or weeds growing wildly without care.
What do all the broken or used-up objects in the poem represent?
They represent how the speaker feels — forgotten, useless, or invisible.
If you could give the speaker one magical object to make them feel better, what would it be?
Accept fun and creative answers: e.g., “a happiness remote,” “a talking plant,” etc.
What is a carburettor as used in the line “the carburettor choked by bits of dirt”?
A part of a car engine that mixes fuel and air. In the poem, it means something not working properly anymore.
Why do you think the poet chose everyday objects to describe feelings?
To help readers understand the sadness by using things they see or use every day.
Act like one of the sad objects in the poem using your voice or face! (Choose one: empty can, broken stapler, garden with weeds.)
Student performs; award marks for effort and creativity.
What does inert mean in “the starter motor which remains inert”?
It means not moving or not working at all.
What is the message or moral of the poem Sad I Ams?
We should be kind and pay attention to people who may feel left out or invisible. Everyone has value.
Make up your own line for the poem Sad I Ams, starting with “I am...”
Accept short, creative responses like: “I am the pencil with no more lead” or “I am the forgotten gift under the bed.”