1. Journal 14.19.16 A Raisin in the Sun “Harlem” Interpret the meaning of the following lines: What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a sore—And then run? Does it stink like rotten meat? tOr crust and sugar over—Like a syrupy sweet? Maybe it just sags Like a heavy load. Or does it explode?

2. Journal 24.20.16 In A Raisin in the Sun, Mama is anticipating a life insurance check from the death of her late husband. The characters each have an idea of how the money can be used. How do Mama, Walter, Beneatha, and Ruth each believe the money should be used? What tensions could possibly develop as a result of the impending insurance check? Explain. Respond in a well- formed paragraph (5-7 sentences).

3. Journal 34.21.16 At the end of Act I scene i of A Raisin in the Sun, the narrator hints that Ruth is with child. Provide the clue that lets the reader know of Ruth’s condition. What potential conflicts could develop in regards to the family’s acquisition of dreams due to Ruth’s pregnancy. Respond in a well- formed paragraph (5-7 sentences).

4. Journal 44.25.16 In A Raisin in the Sun, Asagai and Beneatha have a conversation about assimilation. What is assimilation? What forms of assimilation exist in America today? How might assimilation affect and impact the acquisition of the American Dream? Use concrete examples to support your response. Respond in a well- constructed paragraph (5-7 sentences).

5. Journal 54.26.16 George Murchison declares, “It’s simple. You read books—to learn facts—to get grades—to pass the course—to get a degree. That’s all—it has nothing to do with thoughts” (II. ii). Put George’s thoughts in your own words. Do you agree or disagree with George’s ideas on the purpose of education? Consider the counter argument to your own viewpoint. Use concrete examples to support your response. Respond in a well-constructed paragraph (5-7 sentences).

6. Journal 6 4.28.16 Beneatha claims, “…there is only one large circle that we march in, around and around, each of us with our own little picture in front of us—our own little mirage that we think is the future” (III). Asagai asserts, “It isn’t a circle—it is simply a long line—as in geometry, you know, one that reaches into infinity. And because we cannot see the end—we also cannot see how it changes. And it is very odd but those who see the changes—who dream, who will not give up—are called idealists…and those who only see the circle we call them the realists!” (III). RESPOND: Put BOTH Beneatha’s AND Asagai’s interpretation of life in your own words. Identify and explain what philosophy of life with which you agree. You may find that you both agree and disagree with parts of each; that is fine as long as you are able to support your position. Defend your position with concrete examples. Respond in a well-constructed paragraph (5-7 sentences).