The Symbolism of the Oak Tree

Fill in the blank: The oak tree is described as a "silent witness to the passage of time," which means it has _______.

Open-ended: How does the passage use the oak tree as a symbol, and what does it represent in the context of the city?

Fill in the blank: The tree's ability to "withstand countless storms" is a metaphor for its (a)   .

Open-ended: Describe how the author uses figurative language to convey the relationship between the oak tree and the city.

The phrase "living bridge between the past and the present" suggests that the tree:

• Connects different generations.

• Is a physical structure.

• Is a modern invention.

• Separates the past from the present.

What does the phrase "gnarled branches reached out like the arms of an old friend" suggest about the tree?

• The tree is very old and weak.

• The tree is welcoming and comforting.

• The tree is dangerous and threatening.

• The tree is isolated and lonely.

What does the phrase "pockets of tranquility" imply about the city environment?

• The city is completely peaceful.

• The city is chaotic, but there are calm areas.

• The city is dangerous.

• The city is boring.

What is the connotative meaning of the word "resilience" as used in the passage?

• Flexibility

• Strength

• Stubbornness

• Fragility

Which of the following best describes the figurative meaning of the tree's "roots ran deep"?

• The tree is very old.

• The tree is physically large.

• The tree is deeply connected to the city's history.

• The tree is difficult to remove.

What does the phrase "cycle of life that mirrored the ever-changing nature of the city" mean?

• The city never changes.

• The city changes in a predictable pattern.

• The city is static and unchanging.

• The city is chaotic and unpredictable.