Theme for English B

Which of the following best articulates the theme of the poem?

• a. Race does not determine our worth, nor does anyone.

• b. In all circumstances, rise above your race.

• c. Despite differences, including race, we learn from one another and are connected.

• d. Teachers don't always have the answers

The speaker in the poem "Theme for English B" is ___________.

• the instructor of a college course

• an African American college student

• a musician during the Harlem Renaissance

What does this poem explore?

• the history of poetry

• feelings about college

• how to people fit into society

• the music of Harlem musicians

Based on the evidence in the poem, what was Hughes’ attitude towards his assignment that his professor gave him?

• His attitude was nonchalant; he did not care because he was going to pass the class regardless.

• His attitude was frustrated because his assignment would not look like everyone else's due to his race.

• His attitude was elated because he could finally show his professor that he could do more than just play basketball.

• His attitude was angry due to the fact that his route to school was exhausting and he did not have the energy to write an assignment.

How does this poem relate to the modern world, as compared to the world when it was published, in 1951?

• Unfortunately, school still exists.

• Unfortunately, people still misjudge others based on the color of their skin.

• Unfortunately, teachers still struggle to understand that all students want to do is eat, sleep, and rest.

• Unfortunately, no one cares about how students get to and from school.

Between the instructor and the student, who has learned the bigger lesson after reading this "theme"? Why do you think so? (Answer must be at least 3 sentences)

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

Be the professor for a few minutes. What grade (A-F) would you give Hughes for this poem? (think about the time period! Do you think he will be graded fairly for his opinions?)

Evaluate responses using AI:

OFF

Which line from “Theme for English B” most clearly conveys the idea that the speaker is like everyone else?

• I am the only colored student in my class. (line 10)

• Well, I like to eat, sleep, drink, and be in love. (line 21)

• Sometimes perhaps you don't want to be a part of me. (line 34)

• I am twenty-two, colored, born in Winston-Salem. (line 7)

What is the Harlem Renaissance?

• A travelling basketball team

• A rebirth of African American culture in art, music, and literature

• A medieval game

• Time period of around 1210 a.d. when the games of jousting and art became popular

Which art form WASN'T represented in the Harlem Renaissance?

• painting and art
• music and theatre
• fiction and poetry
• sculpture and architecture