David's Old Soul

Which of the following identifies the theme of poem?

• Parents often treat their kids like adults, forcing them to grow up too soon.

• Kids are often expected to take care of their siblings over themselves.

• When kids take on more responsibility, they grow up faster.

• Adults are not as compassionate or selfless as kids.

Which lines from the poem best support the theme?

• “my / mother has called me ‘an old soul.’ / I never understood.” (Lines 1-3)

• “now that our family has / dwindled to just Mom and us kids, I’ve grown / into a

  man” (Lines 3-5)

• “‘David, dig deep,’ / is the whisper in my ear.” (Lines 5-6)

• “I try to be the / raft that helps carry them over this life’s rough rivers.” (Lines

  7-8)

How does the phrase “You do what you have to” contribute to the tone of the poem

(Line 5)?

• It develops a frustrated tone, as the speaker has no control over his situation.

• It conveys an angry tone, as the speaker refuses to change his situation.

• It introduces a resigned tone, as the speaker accepts his new responsibilities.

• It establishes a proud tone, as the speaker feels good about his new

  responsibilities.

Which answer choice BEST reveals that David is tenacious (not readily relinquishing a position, principle, or course of action; determined.)?

• As far back as I can remember

• So I stand strong like a tree my baby brothers can lean on

• But now that our family has dwindled

• You do what you have to.

Which statement best describes David's attitude toward his new life experience in the poem, David's Old Soul?

• responsible

• apprehensive

• noteworthy

• Haughty

What connotation does the word " deep" invoke?

• It invokes a positive connotation as a result of David's wisdom at such a young age.

• It invokes a negative connotation due to his haughtiness.

What inference can be drawn about David

• He is supportive.

• He hates being a role model.

• He isn't as strong as he claims

• He has a mother that makes him do too much

How does the golden shovel contribute to the poem as a whole?

• It develops the theme of the poem that children mature quickly when they experience more responsibilities in life.

• It explains how much David contributes to his family.

• It describes how David views his soul.