Mother to Son by Langston Huges Standard: RL11-12.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text… and analyze how specific word choices shape meaning and tone.  

Standard: RL11-12.4 Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text… and analyze how specific word choices shape meaning and tone. Objective: We will explain how the extended metaphor shapes the message and tone the poem “Mother to Son” by Langston Hughes.

Closing Task: I will be able to explain verbally and in writing how the extended metaphor shapes the message and tone in the poem “Mother to Son” by Langston Hughes.

Introduction: Personal examples: Advice

Close your eyes. What is some advice that you have been given from your parents, a teacher or an older person? Who gave you the advice? How did it make you feel? Why? Think Pair Share

Tone   Tone: The author/speaker’s attitude toward the text (spoken or written). Example: I’m going home. Now, I want you to think back to the advice that you were given and try to figure out what the advice giver’s tone was. (Think Pair Share)

Optimistic Pessimistic Synonyms Serious, Somber ; Antonyms Optimistic Pessimistic Synonyms Serious, Somber Supportive Critical Angry, Bitter Inspirational, Hopeful

“Mother to Son” by Langston Hughes The mother in this poem is giving advice to her son.

Predictions These objects represent some things the mother mentions in the poem. Talking with your group members, I want you make some predictions about what the mother’s message and tone might be.

Close Reading of “Mother to Son” First Reading: Listen After: Extended metaphor. A comparison between two unlikely things that continues throughout a poem.

Second Reading: Listen and highlight. As you listen, highlight words that create the metaphor. Example: climbing.

Third Reading: Read with me by reading the highlights. After: Discuss with your partner the tone of the poem. What evidence from the text supports this tone?

Using all that we have discussed and read, explain how Writing Using all that we have discussed and read, explain how the extended metaphor shapes the message and tone of the text. Use at least two pieces of evidence from the text to support your explanation of tone. Use complete sentences and logical paragraphs. Be sure to reread what you wrote.  

Share and Reflect