Theme for English B

What is the setting of the poem?

• A college classroom in Chicago
• A college classroom in Harlem
• A high school in Washington, D.C.
• An apartment in Brooklyn

What assignment does the speaker receive from his instructor?

• Write a biography
• Write a poem about identity
• Write a page that comes out of you—true and honest
• Write a summary of your academic goals

What can we infer about the speaker from his tone?

• He is angry and bitter
• He is confused and nervous
• He is reflective and honest
• He is mocking and sarcastic

Which line best expresses a central theme of the poem?

• “I guess being colored doesn’t make me not like the same things other folks like…”
• “Go home and write a page tonight.”
• “I hear you: hear you, hear me—we two—you, me, talk on this page.”
• “It’s not easy to know what is true for you or me.”

What does the speaker suggest about the relationship between himself and his instructor?

• They have nothing in common.
• They can learn from each other despite differences.
• The instructor disrespects the speaker’s writing.
• The speaker thinks the instructor is out of touch.

The phrase “I am the only colored student in my class” serves to:

• Show the speaker’s confidence
• Emphasize his isolation
• Suggest he is unprepared for college
• Explain his writing style

What does the speaker mean when he says: “I guess you learn from me— / although you’re older—and white— / and somewhat more free”?

• He thinks the teacher has nothing left to learn.
• He feels the teacher will never understand him.
• He believes people of all backgrounds can learn from each other.
• He wants to teach a class himself.

What literary device is used when the speaker lists things like: “I like to eat, sleep, drink, and be in love…”?

• Hyperbole
• Simile
• Alliteration
• Repetition

The poem is written in free verse, meaning:

• It has a strict rhyme and meter
• It has no regular rhyme or rhythm
• It is written as a song
• It uses Shakespearean language

Overall, what is the main idea of the poem?

• Writing essays in college is difficult
• Students must always agree with their teachers
• Race does not affect how people think or feel
• Our identities are shaped by both individuality and shared experiences