1. AP Literature and Composition November 14, 2008 Ms. Cares

2. Robert Frost’s “The Most of It” - First We need to clarify our reading of the poem. Working with 1-2 other people, answer the four questions regarding poems that you were given Wednesday. We will then discuss.

3. Poetry comprehension questions continued… What are the important images and figures of speech? Use these key phrases to help your distinguish between literal and figurative language.

4. Figurative vs. Literal Language Literal: It means what it says it means. “I love a rose” -- that is, roses are my favorite flowers. Figurative: It has an implied meaning other than its literal meaning. “I love a rose” -- that is, love is like a rose, beautiful, sweet, fragile.

5. Poetry questions continued… What are the most important single words used in the poem? In other words, think about the diction being used. Underline or circle these words: consider what makes them so significant.

6. Poetry questions continued… What is the tone of the poem? Tone is tricky - it can mean the mood or atmosphere of a work, but it can also mean the manner of the poet’s speech. Multiple choice questions do not commonly ask about tone (two per entire test, maximum), but it is helpful to be aware of tone.

7. Poetry questions continued… What literary devices does the poem employ? Above all, be aware of: metaphor simile personification We will identify other terms and their definitions, but these are the critical ones.

8. Poetry questions continued… What is the poem’s meter, rhyme structure, and rhythm? These are the questions that demand a more refined vocabulary; we will build this beginning next week - get psyched!

9. Practice using these questions: Read Margaret Atwood’s “Siren Song.” In a group of 2-3, discuss your answers to the guided questions provided (from both Wednesday and Friday).