SONNET by James Weldon Johnson

The speaker in the poem is most likely…

• waiting for the sun to come up.

• experiencing adversity in their life.

• extremely satisfied with their life.

• extremely fearful and has lost all hope.

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CCSS.RL.8.5

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Which of the following phrases best describes the speaker’s attitude?

• depressed and upset

• angry and confused

• resilient and hopeful

• calm and joyful

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PART A: Which of the following best describes a theme of the poem?

• Tragedy and adversity builds character by testing people’s patience.

• Resiliency and hope will help people get through even the toughest of times.

• The experience of fighting and war should teach everyone the importance of peace.

• Life should be spent celebrating rather than mourning, because adversity is temporary.

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PART B: Which of the following quotes best supports the answer to Part A?

• “My heart be brave, and do not falter so, / Nor utter more that deep, despairing wail.” (Lines 1-2)

• “Look up, and out, beyond, surrounding clouds, / And do not in thine own gross darkness grope” (Lines 9-10)

• “Rise up, and casting off thy hind’ring shrouds” (Line 11)

• “Tho’ thick the battle and tho’ fierce the fight, / There is a power making for the right.” (Lines 13-14)

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How does the word choice in the poem contribute to its tone?

• The poem uses phrases such as “bright and blushing morn,” suggesting that the speaker is excited for what will happen in the future, contributing to a gleeful tone.

• The poem uses words such as “despairing” and “drear,” revealing that the speaker is upset about the current situation, conveying a pessimistic tone.

• The poem uses phrases such as “my heart,” implying that the speaker is addressing a loved one, contributing to a affectionate tone.

• The poem uses phrases such as “rise up” and “fierce the fight,” suggesting the speaker feels inspired to act, contributing to an impassioned tone.

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Which statement best identifies a similar central idea in both “The Story of Ida B. Wells” and “Sonnet”?

• Fighting for a moral cause empowers people to act bravely in the face of threats.

• Setbacks are a normal part of life and can be overcome with hard work.

• Justice will prevail.

• It is important to speak up for what one believes in.

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