March Madness Final Four FRQ Battle

You are deciding which two poems will move to the March Madness championship!

Carefully read “American Smooth” and “Acceptance.” Then choose the one poem that you believe is superior and, in a well-written essay, analyze how the poet conveys a message about a central idea or theme.

In your response, you should do the following:

• Respond to the prompt with a defensible thesis that presents a clear interpretation of the poem’s message.
• Select and use evidence from the poem to support your line of reasoning.
• Explain how the poet’s use of literary elements and techniques (such as imagery, figurative language, tone, structure, and diction) contributes to the development of the message.
• Use appropriate grammar and punctuation in communicating your argument.

Carefully read “Find Work” and “Problems with Hurricanes.” Then choose the one poem that you believe is superior and, in a well-written essay, analyze how the poet conveys a message about a central idea or theme.

In your response, you should do the following:

• Respond to the prompt with a defensible thesis that presents a clear interpretation of the poem’s message.
• Select and use evidence from the poem to support your line of reasoning.
• Explain how the poet’s use of literary elements and techniques (such as imagery, figurative language, tone, structure, and diction) contributes to the development of the message.
• Use appropriate grammar and punctuation in communicating your argument.