More than 50 youths participated in the program, and all described negative school experiences. Many felt they could not write a poem or anything else; some were reluctant to try, while others wanted to participate but lacked basic reading and writing skills. In 50-minute sessions twice a week, creative writing class participants were taught to read and write. They read and illustrated poems and prepared dramatic readings. They also wrote poems to express perceptions of themselves and to tell a personal story. Poems were evaluated for three elements: words (emotional, intellectual, and sound descriptions); images (personal and cultural perceptions of life); and rhythm (conventional or free verse). By making "writers" of participants, the program hoped to convince them of their language abilities. Being praised for their accomplishments made participants feel valued and powerful. Sample poems are included to illustrate the range of themes addressed by youth.