2.23 FDR Multiple Choice Questions

What is the main claim that the author makes in the first paragraph?

• Americans should fear their economic circumstances.

• The current challenges are unlike any faced in American history.

• The country must face the present situation with honesty and courage.

• Economic prosperity is the only path to happiness.

Answer explanation

In the first paragraph, the author emphasizes the need for the country to confront its current challenges with honesty and courage, making this the main claim. The other options do not capture this central message.

Why does the author compare current struggles to past challenges?

• To argue that the current situation is unprecedented in American history.

• To inspire confidence by reminding the audience of America’s resilience.

• To warn the audience that they will face greater struggles in the future.

• To show that America’s resources are limited compared to previous generations.

Answer explanation

The author compares current struggles to past challenges to inspire confidence by highlighting America's resilience, showing that the nation has overcome difficulties before and can do so again.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.6

CCSS.RI.11-12.6

CCSS.RI.8.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.6

CCSS.RL.9-10.6

Which choice best reflects the author's point of view toward the "money changers"?

• They are well-meaning but ineffective leaders.

• They have betrayed American values and should be condemned.

• They represent the economic success America should strive for.

• They are powerless figures who deserve sympathy.

Answer explanation

The author views the "money changers" as having betrayed American values, indicating a strong disapproval of their actions. This aligns with the choice that states they should be condemned, reflecting a critical perspective.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.6

CCSS.RI.11-12.6

CCSS.RI.8.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.6

CCSS.RL.9-10.6

Which of the following quotes best supports the author’s belief in the importance of social values over monetary gain?

• “This great Nation will endure as it has endured, will revive and will prosper.”

• “The money changers have fled from their high seats in the temple of our civilization.”

• “Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement.”

• “Only a foolish optimist can deny the dark realities of the moment.”

Answer explanation

The quote "Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement" emphasizes that true fulfillment comes from accomplishments and social values, rather than financial wealth, aligning with the author's belief.

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

What rhetorical effect is achieved by the repetition of phrases like “money changers” and “ancient truths”?

• It emphasizes the need to move forward and embrace new values.

• It creates a nostalgic tone that celebrates past economic achievements.

• It reinforces the contrast between self-interest and moral integrity.

• It distracts from the severity of the economic issues presented.

Answer explanation

The repetition of phrases like "money changers" and "ancient truths" highlights the tension between self-interest and moral integrity, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas in economic practices.

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

Which of the following best describes the author’s viewpoint on the values Americans should embrace?

• Americans should focus on achieving personal wealth to aid national prosperity.

• Americans should return to self-serving practices in times of hardship.

• Americans should prioritize social values and the well-being of fellow citizens.

• Americans should remain detached from material and social concerns.

Answer explanation

The author emphasizes the importance of social values and caring for fellow citizens, suggesting that collective well-being is crucial, especially in challenging times, rather than focusing solely on personal gain.

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.6

CCSS.RI.11-12.6

CCSS.RI.8.9

CCSS.RL.11-12.6

CCSS.RL.9-10.6

What effect does the author achieve with the phrase “the withered leaves of industrial enterprise lie on every side”?

• It suggests the impending growth of economic downturns.

• It emphasizes the deep and widespread economic despair.

• It highlights the beauty of American landscapes despite the crisis.

• It implies that the situation will quickly improve.

Answer explanation

The phrase "the withered leaves of industrial enterprise lie on every side" conveys a sense of decay and neglect, emphasizing the deep and widespread economic despair that has affected the landscape and society.

Tags

CCSS.RI.11-12.5

CCSS.RI.6.5

CCSS.RI.7.5

CCSS.RI.8.5

CCSS.RI.9-10.5

Based on the author’s assertion that “our true destiny is…to minister to ourselves and to our fellow men,” what conclusion can be drawn about his beliefs?

• He believes America’s prosperity depends on individual success.

• He views helping others as essential to America’s recovery.

• He thinks Americans should focus solely on their own needs.

• He believes that financial success should be the ultimate goal.

Answer explanation

The author emphasizes the importance of ministering to others, suggesting that helping fellow men is crucial for recovery. This aligns with the belief that collective support is vital for America's well-being.

Tags

CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

How does the author support his argument that Americans need to shift from seeking profit to embracing service?

• By suggesting that government control is the only way to restore prosperity.

• By emphasizing that true happiness lies in creative and meaningful work.

• By arguing that foreign aid will lead to national prosperity.

• By advocating for stricter laws against personal wealth accumulation.

Answer explanation

The author supports his argument by emphasizing that true happiness lies in creative and meaningful work, suggesting that a focus on service rather than profit leads to greater fulfillment and societal well-being.

Why does the author criticize the “money changers” in his argument?

• To encourage sympathy for those facing financial hardship.

• To justify his call for a return to values based on community and service.

• To argue that financial leaders should take more responsibility.

• To show that the nation’s primary issue is financial mismanagement.

Answer explanation

The author criticizes the "money changers" to justify his call for a return to values based on community and service, highlighting the need for a shift away from profit-driven motives towards more altruistic principles.