Theme for English B

Which of the following best articulates the theme of the poem?

• a. Race does not determine our worth, nor does anyone.

• b. In all circumstances, rise above your race.

• c. Despite differences, including race, we learn from one another and are connected.

• d. Teachers don't always have the answers

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The speaker in the poem "Theme for English B" is ___________.

• the instructor of a college course

• an African American college student

• a musician during the Harlem Renaissance

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What does this poem explore?

• the history of poetry

• feelings about college

• how to people fit into society

• the music of Harlem musicians

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Based on the evidence in the poem, what was Hughes’ attitude towards his assignment that his professor gave him?

• His attitude was nonchalant; he did not care because he was going to pass the class regardless.

• His attitude was frustrated because his assignment would not look like everyone else's due to his race.

• His attitude was elated because he could finally show his professor that he could do more than just play basketball.

• His attitude was angry due to the fact that his route to school was exhausting and he did not have the energy to write an assignment.

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How does this poem relate to the modern world, as compared to the world when it was published, in 1951?

• Unfortunately, school still exists.

• Unfortunately, people still misjudge others based on the color of their skin.

• Unfortunately, teachers still struggle to understand that all students want to do is eat, sleep, and rest.

• Unfortunately, no one cares about how students get to and from school.

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Between the instructor and the student, who has learned the bigger lesson after reading this "theme"? Why do you think so? (Answer must be at least 3 sentences)

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Be the professor for a few minutes. What grade (A-F) would you give Hughes for this poem? (think about the time period! Do you think he will be graded fairly for his opinions?)

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Which line from “Theme for English B” most clearly conveys the idea that the speaker is like everyone else?

• I am the only colored student in my class. (line 10)

• Well, I like to eat, sleep, drink, and be in love. (line 21)

• Sometimes perhaps you don't want to be a part of me. (line 34)

• I am twenty-two, colored, born in Winston-Salem. (line 7)

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What is the Harlem Renaissance?

• A travelling basketball team

• A rebirth of African American culture in art, music, and literature

• A medieval game

• Time period of around 1210 a.d. when the games of jousting and art became popular

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Which art form WASN'T represented in the Harlem Renaissance?

• painting and art
• music and theatre
• fiction and poetry
• sculpture and architecture

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