Exploring Themes in Poetry

Which of the following best describes the main theme of Langston Hughes' poem "Mother to Son"?

• The importance of education

• Perseverance through life's hardships

• The beauty of nature

• The value of friendship

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

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In Claude McKay's poem "America," which emotion does the speaker primarily express toward America?

• Pure hatred

• A mix of admiration and resentment

• Indifference

• Joyful acceptance

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CCSS.RL.11-12.8

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Which figurative language device is used in the line from "Mother to Son": "Life for me ain’t been no crystal stair"?

• Simile

• Metaphor

• Personification

• Hyperbole

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CCSS.RL.11-12.8

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Which of the following best summarizes the main idea of Claude McKay's "America"?

• The speaker feels only anger toward America.

• The speaker admires America's strength but also feels oppressed by it.

• The speaker is proud of America's history.

• The speaker wants to leave America.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.8

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How does the structure of "Mother to Son" contribute to its message?

• The use of strict rhyme scheme makes the poem sound formal.

• The conversational, free verse structure reflects the personal advice being given.

• The poem is written as a sonnet, emphasizing love.

• The poem uses short, choppy lines to create suspense.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.8

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Which of the following best describes the speaker's perspective in "Mother to Son"?

• A young child speaking to their mother

• A mother sharing wisdom from her own struggles

• A teacher lecturing students

• A friend giving advice

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CCSS.RL.11-12.8

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Compare the use of figurative language in "America" and "Mother to Son." Which statement is most accurate?

• Both poems use metaphors to convey complex emotions.

• Only "Mother to Son" uses figurative language.

• "America" uses only literal language, while "Mother to Son" uses only similes.

• Neither poem uses figurative language.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.7

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Which evidence from "America" supports the idea that the speaker feels both challenged and inspired by the country?

• The speaker describes America as "sinking into the sand."

• The speaker says, "Her vigor flows like tides into my blood."

• The speaker mentions "crystal stairs."

• The speaker talks about "bare places."

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CCSS.RL.11-12.8

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How does the emotional impact of "Mother to Son" differ from that of "America"?

• "Mother to Son" is more hopeful, while "America" is more conflicted.

• Both poems are equally optimistic.

• "America" is more hopeful, while "Mother to Son" is more pessimistic.

• Both poems are entirely negative.

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CCSS.RI. 9-10.7

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If you were to rewrite "Mother to Son" from the son's perspective, which change would most affect the poem's message?

• The advice would become a reflection on receiving guidance rather than giving it.

• The poem would use more metaphors.

• The poem would be shorter.

• The poem would have a different rhyme scheme.

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CCSS.RL.11-12.8

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