My Desk

Read lines 15 and 16. In line 16, the word etched most closely means —

• perfected

• imprinted

• remembered

• tarnished

Answer explanation

In line 16, 'etched' refers to something that is deeply and permanently marked or imprinted. Therefore, 'imprinted' is the closest meaning, as it conveys the idea of a lasting impression, unlike 'perfected', 'remembered', or 'tarnished'.

Tags

CCSS.RI.11-12.4

CCSS.RI.8.4

CCSS.RI.9-10.4

CCSS.RL.11-12.4

CCSS.RL.9-10.4

What is a theme of the poem?

• Children desire what their parents value.

• Cherished objects can create connections between family members.

• What is extraordinary to some may seem ordinary to others.

• Old objects can be made new again by using imagination.

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights how cherished objects can strengthen family bonds, reflecting the poem's theme of connection through meaningful items shared among family members.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

What does the desk represent in the poem?

• The changes in style that happen over time

• The pride that is found in caring for possessions

• The new beginnings that come with each generation

• The different ways creativity can be inspired in individuals

Answer explanation

In the poem, the desk symbolizes the new beginnings that each generation brings. It reflects how each generation can create and shape their own identity, while also honoring the past.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RI.11-12.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

Which line from the poem best indicates that the speaker is ready to relinquish ownership of the desk?

• Older than you by far, it sits in your room (line 28)

• piled high with crayon drawings, coins, trolls, and hot wheels cars. (line 29)

• You’re still too young to do algebra homework. (line 30)

• and paint it to match your bright green and lavender dreams. (line 35)

Answer explanation

The line 'and paint it to match your bright green and lavender dreams' suggests the speaker is ready to let go of the desk, as it indicates a willingness to adapt it for someone else's vision, symbolizing relinquished ownership.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.8

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.9-10.10

CCSS.RL.9-10.9

What tone is established in lines 22 through 25?

• Intellectual, because the speaker refers to academic matters

• Playful, because the speaker quickly lists random details

• Nostalgic, because the speaker warmly remembers the past

• Hopeful, because the speaker refers to her childhood dreams

Answer explanation

The tone in lines 22 through 25 is nostalgic, as the speaker reflects fondly on past experiences, evoking warm memories and a sense of longing for those times.

Tags

CCSS.RL.11-12.8

CCSS.RL.8.10

CCSS.RL.8.5

CCSS.RL.9-10.10

CCSS.RL.9-10.9

What do the speaker’s comments in lines 31 through 35 suggest?

• The speaker wants her child to find his or her own identity.

• The speaker wants her child to select a new color for the desk.

• The speaker believes her child deserves a new piece of furniture.

• The speaker believes her child will refuse to accept her offer

Answer explanation

The speaker's comments indicate a desire for her child to explore and establish their own identity, rather than simply choosing a color or furniture, highlighting the importance of personal growth and self-discovery.

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

The repetition in lines 19 through 21 is used to emphasize that the desk —

• contains messages written long ago

• is worth a great amount of money

• is outdated in its appearance

• creates a timeless bond

Answer explanation

The repetition in lines 19 through 21 highlights the emotional significance of the desk, suggesting it creates a timeless bond between the past and present, rather than focusing on its monetary value or appearance.

Tags

CCSS.RI.11-12.5

CCSS.RI.6.5

CCSS.RI.7.5

CCSS.RI.8.5

CCSS.RI.9-10.5