They Can Speak English

What does 'stereotyped' imply in the poem?

• Being categorized or judged based on preconceived notions.

• Having a unique and individual identity.

• Being praised for one's originality.

• Being ignored or overlooked by society.

What does 'back benched' signify in the poem?

• Being marginalized or not given importance.

• Being in a position of power and influence.

• Having a leadership role in the group.

• Being recognized for one's contributions.

What is meant by 'second class' in the context of the poem?

• Referring to the perception that speaking a language other than English is inferior.

• Indicating a level of education that is below average.

• Describing a social class that has limited access to resources.

• Referring to a literary style that is considered outdated.

What does 'be proud not because you speak English' suggest?

• Pride should come from one's own language and culture, not from speaking English.

• Speaking English is the only way to gain pride.

• One should be ashamed of their own language and culture.

• Pride is only valid if you can speak multiple languages.

What is the significance of 'if you speak English you are civilized'?

• It suggests that speaking English is equated with being cultured or educated.

• It implies that only English speakers can travel internationally.

• It indicates that English is the only language worth learning.

• It means that civilization is defined by language alone.

What does 'you can think and express your thought' imply about language?

• Language is essential for thought and self-expression.

• Language is only a tool for communication.

• Language has no impact on thought processes.

• Language is primarily used for social interaction.

What does the poet mean by 'my pronunciation they bother not'?

• The speaker feels that their pronunciation is not a concern for others.

• The speaker believes that others are critical of their pronunciation.

• The speaker thinks that pronunciation is the most important aspect of communication.

• The speaker is indifferent to how others perceive their pronunciation.

What does 'mother tongue' refer to in the poem?

• The first language a person learns and uses.

• A language spoken by a mother in a family.

• A language that is no longer in use.

• A language that is learned in school.

What is the main conflict expressed in the poem?

• The struggle between pride in one's mother tongue and the pressure to conform to English.

• The conflict between love and hate in a relationship.

• The battle between nature and technology in modern society.

• The tension between individual freedom and societal expectations.

List some of the mother tongues mentioned in the poem.

• Hausa

• Spanish

• Mandarin

• French