1. I Have a Dream

2. Question 1:
Infer:
The central point of an argument is the claim. What is King’s claim in this speech?
What reasons does he cite to support his claim?

3. Question 2:
Interpret:
King uses an extended metaphor to compare a familiar object –a bad check- to an abstract idea.
How does King develop the metaphor? How has America given African Americans a “bad check?”

4. Question 3:
Analyze:
Find examples of parallelism in lines What effect does the parallel structure create? What point is King emphasizing?

5. Question 4:
Interpret:
How does the context of the speech, including years of inequality and nonviolent resistance, help to illustrate the theme of King’s speech?

6. Writing Activity:
Think about which specific parts of the speech you felt were inspiring, as well as specific lines or phrases that resonated with you. Explain why these particular sections were important to you, or you found a “connection” with them. Next, I want you to analyze which rhetorical devices were used in these sections and describe why the devices were effective .