How does Martin Luther King Jr.'s use of the metaphor "the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination" contribute to the meaning of the speech?

• It describes physical barriers preventing progress.

• It emphasizes how racial inequality restricts freedom.

• It portrays the temporary nature of racial segregation.

• It suggests racial segregation is an inescapable fate.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

In the phrase "the promissory note," King alludes to a concept from American history. How does this symbolism deepen the speech's meaning?

• It critiques the nation's failure to fulfill its promises to African Americans.

• It emphasizes a future of prosperity for African Americans.

• It refers to the moral debt the U.S. owes its citizens.

• It underscores the importance of paying off national debts.

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CCSS.RL.2.6

CCSS.RL.8.3

What is the significance of the phrase "rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice" in King's speech?

• It contrasts oppression with the light of racial equality.

• It shows that segregation will disappear over time.

• It suggests that freedom requires hardship and sacrifice.

• It focuses on economic improvements rather than social equality.

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CCSS.RL.8.3

King refers to the "shadow of segregation." How does this symbolic image enhance the understanding of the speech’s message?

• It highlights the enduring presence of segregation.

• It suggests that segregation will soon be eliminated.

• It portrays the darkness of an uncertain future.

• It implies that segregation is a minor issue.

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CCSS.RL.8.3

How does King’s use of the repetition of "Let freedom ring" enhance the speech's overall message?

• It emphasizes the widespread and universal need for freedom.

• It creates a sense of urgency for immediate action.

• It contrasts the current state of society with the ideal of freedom.

• It celebrates freedom as an already accomplished goal.

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CCSS.RL.7.4

In the phrase "the promissory note" King invokes the language of debt. What deeper meaning does this symbol carry about the United States’ treatment of African Americans?

• It illustrates the unfulfilled promises of equality and justice.

• It highlights a financial debt owed to African Americans.

• It critiques the current economic conditions for African Americans.

• It emphasizes the government's ability to correct past wrongs.

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CCSS.RI.9-10.5

When King says "every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low," what is the figurative meaning of "valleys" and "mountains" in this context?

• They represent the racial and social divisions to be overcome.

• They symbolize the challenges of economic development.

• They depict geographical features important to the movement.

• They highlight the need for physical infrastructure improvements.

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CCSS.RL.8.3

What is the symbolic role of "the red hills of Georgia" in the speech?

• They represent the long-standing racial tensions in the South.

• They symbolize the peaceful resolution of racial issues.

• They represent the economic prosperity of the South.

• They evoke a new beginning for racial reconciliation.

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CCSS.RL.8.3

What does King mean by the phrase "the glory of the Lord" in his speech, especially in the context of the civil rights movement?

• It symbolizes divine approval for racial justice.

• It refers to a literal religious event or vision.

• It suggests the physical beauty of African American culture.

• It highlights divine intervention in political matters.

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CCSS.RL.8.3

In the phrase "justice rolls down like waters," how does the simile contribute to the overall tone and meaning of the speech?

• It suggests that justice will flow easily and abundantly for all.

• It portrays justice as something difficult to achieve.

• It highlights justice as a future aspiration.

• It warns that justice will be delayed for an extended period.

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CCSS.RL.8.3