Question

What is one symbol that could represent this value in your life, and why?
In your response, explain:

The value you chose
A life experience that helped shape this value
How your symbol represents that value and who you are
Response Expectations:

1 well‑developed paragraph (5–7 sentences)
Use a personal example
Explain the connection between the value and the symbol
give a 9th grade response

Answer 1

One symbol that could represent the value of perseverance in my life is a worn pair of running shoes. In middle school I joined the cross-country team even though I was slow at first and wanted to quit after the first few meets, but my coach and teammates kept encouraging me and I kept practicing until I finished every race. The scuffed shoes on my shelf remind me of the long runs, early mornings, and the small improvements that added up over time. They show that I stick with things even when they are hard, and that effort and practice matter more than natural talent. The shoes represent who I am—a person who keeps going, learns from mistakes, and doesn’t give up when things get tough.