Poem #4: The Bridge Between 8th Grade

Read the poem 'The Bridge Between.' What does the bridge symbolize in the poem?

• A) A physical crossing

• B) A connection between people

• C) A path between the old and new

• D) A place for animals to cross

The significance of the bridge being 'lined with gold' at dusk is:

• It describes the way the setting sun makes the bridge appear golden.

• It means the bridge is actually made of gold.

• It refers to lights being turned on along the bridge.

• It is a metaphor for wealth and prosperity.

The phrase 'Where choice becomes the space between' in the context of the poem means:

• The moment of decision is a pause or gap between possibilities.

• Choice is always easy and straightforward.

• The poem is about physical spaces only.

• There is no significance to making choices.

What does the word "hesitant" mean in stanza 2?

• Bold

• Uncertain

• Fast

• Surprising

Which line from the poem contains personification?

• A. "Below, the river shifts and stirs,"

• B. "The boards remember every stride—"

• C. "At dusk, the bridge grows lined with gold"

• D. "A path between the old and new,"

What is the main effect of the imagery in stanza 4?

• It creates a peaceful, reflective atmosphere.

• It suggests the bridge is unstable.

• It introduces a new conflict.

• It makes the bridge seem frightening.

How does stanza 3 contribute to the poem’s development?

• It introduces a new setting away from the bridge.

• It emphasizes the idea that the bridge holds memories.

• It shifts from peaceful to chaotic imagery.

• It provides the poem’s main theme.

Which statement best expresses a central idea of the poem?

• All choices eventually fade away.

• Bridges are important structures in communities.

• Life involves transitions, and people must move between past and future.

• People should avoid rushing across important decisions.

Which line best supports the idea that the bridge represents a connection between different stages of life?

• A. "It mirrors clouds and wanderers"

• B. "Each echo, faint, is multiplied"

• C. "A meeting place for young and old,"

• D. "Its restless currents bending wide."

What change occurs between stanza 1 and stanza 5?

• The tone shifts from reflective to tense.

• The poem moves from describing the physical bridge to explaining its symbolic meaning.

• The setting changes from evening to morning.

• The speaker expresses fear about crossing the bridge.