Choice 1. Read the following poem and write a paragraph at least 7-10 sentences long that:

1. Explains the TOPIC of the poem;

2. Interprets the SYMBOLISM of the rose;

3. Explains and provides an example of at least one of the poetic devices used in the poem.

“The Rose That Grew From Concrete” by Tupac Shakur

Did you hear about the rose that grew

from a crack in the concrete?

Proving nature's law is wrong it

learned to walk without having feet.

Funny it seems, but by keeping its dreams,

it learned to breathe fresh air.

Long live the rose that grew from concrete

when no one else ever cared.

OR

Choice 2. Using persuasive language and smooth transitions between ideas, CHOOSE ONE of the following topics and argue your opinion in a 7 - 10 sentence-long paragraph.

OPTION ONE: Aliens exist. True or false? Argue your point of view.

OPTION TWO: Recycling should be a legal requirement for every household. Yes or no? Argue your point of view.

“The Rose That Grew From Concrete” is a poem by Tupac Shakur that speaks of the resilience and perseverance of a rose that grows from a crack in the concrete. The topic of the poem is the power of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. The rose symbolizes hope and the ability to overcome insurmountable obstacles. Despite the bleak and inhospitable situation of the concrete, the rose refuses to give up and perseveres in its growth. By keeping its dreams, the rose manages to survive and flourish, proving that nature's laws can sometimes be challenged. The poem utilizes metaphor as a poetic device to compare the rose to human resilience. The metaphorical comparison between the rose and human nature helps Tupac highlight the importance of tenacity and belief in the face of hardship. By drawing attention to the growth of the rose from the concrete, he emphasizes the power of dreams in overcoming impossible odds.

Choice 1. Read the following poem and write a paragraph at least 7-10 sentences long that:

1. Explains the TOPIC of the poem;

2. Interprets the SYMBOLISM of the rose;

3. Explains and provides an example of at least one of the poetic devices used in the poem.

“The Rose That Grew From Concrete” by Tupac Shakur

Did you hear about the rose that grew

from a crack in the concrete?

Proving nature's law is wrong it

learned to walk without having feet.

Funny it seems, but by keeping its dreams,

it learned to breathe fresh air.

Long live the rose that grew from concrete

when no one else ever cared.

OR

Choice 2. Using persuasive language and smooth transitions between ideas, CHOOSE ONE of the following topics and argue your opinion in a 7 - 10 sentence-long paragraph.

OPTION ONE: Aliens exist. True or false? Argue your point of view.

OPTION TWO: Recycling should be a legal requirement for every household. Yes or no? Argue your point of view.

“The Rose That Grew From Concrete” by Tupac Shakur is a poem that speaks about determination and persistence in the face of adversity. The poem's topic revolves around the theme of believing in oneself despite unfavorable circumstances. The rose symbolizes resilience, which is demonstrated by the growth of the flower from concrete. The rose represents the ability to break away from the constraints that confine us, which, in this case, is the concrete, and reach our full potential. The rose can also represent beauty and the potential that is present in all of us, even in adverse conditions. The poem uses the metaphorical device, "the rose that grew from concrete," which helps compare the adverse conditions that the rose is growing up in to the challenges and obstacles that we face in life. It indicates that just as the rose can break through the concrete, we too can overcome our adversities. The poem inspires hope and reaffirms the idea that with perseverance and hard work, one can attain greatness regardless of their origin or background.

Choice 1: "The Rose That Grew From Concrete" by Tupac Shakur is a powerful poem that touches upon themes of resilience, hope, and the ability to overcome adversity. The topic of the poem is the triumph of an individual against all odds. The rose symbolizes perseverance and beauty amidst difficult circumstances, as it grows from a crack in the concrete, defying nature's law. The rose's ability to learn to walk without feet and breathe fresh air symbolizes the strength and determination to overcome obstacles and find ways to thrive even in the harshest conditions.

One poetic device used in the poem is personification. By attributing the ability to learn, walk, and breathe to the rose, Shakur personifies the plant, making it seem more human and relatable. This creates a sense of empathy and admiration for the rose's resilience. Another example of a poetic device in the poem is imagery. The contrast between the concrete and the delicate beauty of a rose creates a vivid image in the reader's mind. The concrete represents the harsh reality and obstacles faced by the individual, while the rose represents the strength and beauty that can emerge from those circumstances.

In conclusion, "The Rose That Grew From Concrete" explores the topic of resilience and triumph over adversity through the symbolism of a rose growing from concrete. The poem's use of personification and imagery enhances the emotional impact and reinforces the idea that even in the most challenging situations, there is still room for hope and growth.