1 minute read
Growing Up
1 Hometowns
Rate your hometown from 10 (great) to 0 (terrible). Tell a partner about air quality, convenience, nature, shopping, famous foods, etc.
Follow the directions in the blue box then read the essay. Check vocabulary as needed.
intro I grew up in Herkimer, a small town in New York State. When people hear New York they imagine a big city, but the population of my hometown is just 6,000 people. Herkimer is rural. You can see many farms and cows around my hometown. Growing up in Herkimer was pleasant and safe.
There are a few nice parks in Herkimer. One has a statue of Mr. Herkimer, a war hero. Another one, Brookwood Park, has many places to play and is nice for picnics. Herkimer also has a two-year college up a steep hill. Locals can play tennis there, or go skiing in the nearby woods.
Herkimer’s famous product is a little unusual. "Herkimer Diamonds" are crystals that look like diamonds. People come from all over the country and even the world to dig for these unique stones. There’s a nearby campground and river to swim in. There are many precious stones for sale in the gift shop.
When I was young the town had many small stores selling clothing, food, and other goods, but most have closed. Downtown now has many empty buildings. Herkimer has one main store: Walmart. It’s a very big department store with many goods at cheap prices. The parking lot is huge because everyone drives to shop there. When I visit my hometown I feel nostalgic. The environment and people of my hometown influenced me greatly. Growing up in Herkimer was comfortable. However, I’m happy living in Japan and don’t plan to move back.
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