Mother to Son by Langston Hughes

Which of the following is NOT true about Langston Hughes' life? 

• His first poem is called "The Negro Speaks of Rivers" 
• He was the first African American poet to support himself through writing 
• He was born in Charleston, South Carolina 
• He went to Columbia University 

Who is the main speaker in the poem? 

• Langston Hughes 
• Son 
• Mom
• Grandma

All of the following are inferences that could be made about the speaker EXCEPT 

• She is hardworking 
• Her job is high paying
• She is trying to encorage her son 
• She is likely received little education 

Which of the following would best exemplify the theme in Mother to Son?

• Don't put off tomorrow what you should do today
• It is important to persevere when life gets tough  
• Don't be afraid to try something new

Which of the following quotes best provides support for the theme? 

• "Life for me ain't been no crystal stair" 
• "Places with no carpet on the floor" 
• "Well son I'll tell you" 
• "Don't you fall now" 

All of the following are examples of dialect EXCEPT

• "I'se"
• "Ain't"
• "Climbin'" 
• "Don't" 

How does the speaker's tone change throughout the poem?

• From discouraging to positive 
• From joyful to depressing 
• From encouraging to negative 
• From optimistic to fearful

How does the author's use of metaphor effect the reader's understanding of the poem?

• The metaphor of the staircase conveys to the reader that  the speaker doesn't have carpet on the floor 
• The metaphor of the staircase conveys to the reader that the author steps on a tack 
• The metaphor of the staircase conveys to the reader that life is an easy climb
• The metaphor of the staircase conveys to the reader that life isn't always easy 

What does the quote "And reachin' landin's, and turnin' corners" show about the speaker in the poem? 

• She couldn't overcome her difficulties 
• She was able to move through her obstacles 
• She was able to climb a mountain 
• She needed to keep stopping for a rest 

Based on the poem, what conclusion will the reader arrive at? 

• I should work hard to overcome my obstacles in life 
• I should stop trying when things get difficult 
• I should be thankful for what I have