This unit shows how people deal with the borders in their lives. These borders may divide people from others in their families or communities or from the larger economy or social world. Some borders may seem impossible to cross for personal, social, or economic reasons. Other border crossings, despite terrible risks, may be inevitable and necessary. Review the Rubric below before submitting. Most people experience crossing borders at some time in their lives, borders that can consist of real walls or fences; geographical divisions on a map; or intellectual, cultural, or ethical divides. Task: In a 3 paragraph essay, describe an event or an incident in your life that was a kind of border crossing— some plan of action or spontaneous action that moved you from one place, condition, state of mind, or status to a different one. Remember to use strong verbs and specific details to give the narrative energy and believability. Use the information below to help guide your written response: Intro. Paragraph: Begin with a "hook" that catches the reader's attention. What is the event or incident? How is it a border crossing? Body Paragraph(s): Describe your experience. Don't forget to "show, don't tell" by including sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and textures you remember. Your experience is your "evidence". Use transition words to mark the passage of time. Conclusion Paragraph: Analyze and reflect on the border crossing and why it was significant to you.

Growing up in a small, conservative town, I always felt like I was living within a border. The expectations and limitations put on me by my family and community made it feel like there was a wall between me and my true self. However, everything changed when I decided to leave for college in a big city. This decision was a major border crossing for me, as it required me to leave behind everything I knew and step into the unknown.

In my first few weeks at college, I felt overwhelmed by the newness of it all. The sights and sounds of the city were so different from my quiet hometown, and the people I met came from diverse backgrounds. I had to quickly adapt to this new environment, learning to navigate public transportation and adjusting to a more open-minded way of thinking. It was challenging, but I felt myself growing and evolving in ways I never could have imagined.

Looking back on that decision to leave for college, I realize now that it was a necessary border crossing for me. It allowed me to break free from the limitations of my past and embrace a more authentic version of myself. By stepping outside of my comfort zone and venturing into the unknown, I was able to discover new passions, make lifelong friends, and ultimately become the person I am today. Crossing that border was scary and difficult at times, but it was also incredibly rewarding.