Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

“THE TRADITION” BY JERICHO BROWN

Reading Check

1. What type of plant does Brown reference in his poem?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. What does Brown list in the last line of the poem, and how does the use of italics connect this line to other parts of the poem?

Paired Resource

“A Small Needful Fact”

• This poem by Ross Gay explores the life and death of Eric Garner, who was killed at the hands of police officers in New York City during an arrest.
• This poem connects to the theme of Remembrance and Recognition.
• This poem shares a similar message and theme as “The Tradition” by Jericho Brown. How does Gay’s poem help supplement Brown’s? What is significant about the shared plant imagery in both?

INTRODUCTION BY JESMYN WARD

Reading Check

1. What Baldwin essay did Ward read when she was in her twenties?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. How many essays did Ward receive that concerned themselves with the future, and what message did they convey to Ward?