Checking Out Mi History
Questions and Answers
- 1.
The narrator uses a mixture of stanza forms. This suggests that he is breaking the confining language rules he has been taught by those who are seeking to erase his identity
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The narrator's use of a mixture of stanza forms implies that he is intentionally defying the language rules imposed on him. This suggests that there are individuals or groups who are trying to erase his identity, and he is resisting their attempts by breaking free from the confining rules. The use of different stanza forms can be seen as a form of rebellion and a way for the narrator to assert his individuality and preserve his identity.Rate this question:
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- 2.
What is ironic about the title of the poem?
- A.
The narrator is not learning about his history
- B.
The narrator is learning about his history
- C.
The narrator has no interest in history
- D.
There is no history in the poem
Correct Answer
A. The narrator is not learning about his historyExplanation
The irony in the title of the poem lies in the fact that the narrator is not actually learning about his history. Despite the title suggesting that the narrator is engaged in a process of discovering and understanding his past, the answer reveals that this is not the case. This creates a sense of contradiction and irony, as the title misleads the reader into expecting one thing, while the reality is the opposite.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Which of the following lines are used by the narrator to emphasise the separateness of the British education system from himself?
- A.
Repetition of 'Dem tell me"
- B.
Repetition of Toussaint
- C.
Use of creole
- D.
Mention of historical figures
Correct Answer
A. Repetition of 'Dem tell me"Explanation
The repetition of 'Dem tell me' is used by the narrator to emphasize the separateness of the British education system from himself. This phrase suggests that the narrator is being told what to believe or think by others, highlighting a lack of agency or personal connection to the education system. The repetition emphasizes the narrator's distance and disconnection from the system, reinforcing the idea of separateness.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Which of the following are used by the speaker as a metaphor for the deliberate attempts by British education system to hide his history and prevent him from seeing his own history?
- A.
Blind me to me own identity (.l.5)
- B.
Wha dem want to tell me (l.3)
- C.
No dem neva tell me bout dat (l. 9)
- D.
Dem tell me bout de man who discover de balloon ( l.22)
Correct Answer
A. Blind me to me own identity (.l.5)Explanation
The speaker uses the phrase "Blind me to me own identity" as a metaphor for the deliberate attempts by the British education system to hide his history and prevent him from seeing his own history. This metaphor suggests that the education system has intentionally obscured the speaker's understanding of his own cultural heritage and personal identity, causing him to feel disconnected from his roots.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Which of the following does the speaker use to make British history sound trivial, childish and silly while linking it to the oral traditions of the Caribbean?
- A.
Images of light
- B.
The simple rhyme scheme and the use of nursery rhymes
- C.
Skipping quickly over British figures and covering Caribbean figures in more detail
- D.
Repetition, strong rhythms and the use of phonetic spelling
Correct Answer
B. The simple rhyme scheme and the use of nursery rhymesExplanation
The speaker uses the simple rhyme scheme and the use of nursery rhymes to make British history sound trivial, childish, and silly while linking it to the oral traditions of the Caribbean. By employing a simple and familiar rhyme scheme, similar to that of nursery rhymes, the speaker diminishes the seriousness and complexity of British history. This technique highlights the contrast between the oral traditions of the Caribbean, which are often passed down through simple rhymes and stories, and the more formal and academic approach typically associated with British history.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Which of the following are positive and suggest an awareness of your own identity?
- A.
Images of light
- B.
Mention of Caribbean historical figures
- C.
Mention of British historical figures
- D.
Use of oral poetry features
Correct Answer
A. Images of lightExplanation
Images of light can be seen as positive because light is often associated with positivity, clarity, and enlightenment. The mention of Caribbean historical figures and British historical figures does not necessarily suggest an awareness of one's own identity, as it could simply be a reference to historical events or figures. Similarly, the use of oral poetry features does not directly indicate self-awareness. However, images of light can symbolize self-awareness and introspection, as light can illuminate one's own identity and bring understanding.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which of the following lines sounds like a chant?
- A.
Lines 1-3
- B.
Lines 4-5
- C.
Lines 6-9
- D.
Lines 10-20
- E.
Lines 31-34
Correct Answer
D. Lines 10-20Explanation
Lines 10-20 sound like a chant because they have a repetitive and rhythmic pattern. Chants often involve repeating phrases or words, and these lines exhibit that characteristic. The repetition creates a musical quality and makes it easier for people to remember and participate in the chant.Rate this question:
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- 8.
The repetition of the word Toussaint creates
- A.
a confident and forceful mood
- B.
A feeling of fear and pride
- C.
A feeling of anger and shame
- D.
A sense of blindness and uncertainty
Correct Answer
A. a confident and forceful moodExplanation
The repetition of the word Toussaint creates a confident and forceful mood. By repeating the name, it emphasizes the strength and power of Toussaint, suggesting that he is a formidable and influential figure. The repetition also adds a sense of conviction and determination, as if the speaker is emphasizing their belief in Toussaint's abilities. Overall, the repetition of Toussaint conveys a sense of confidence and strength, setting a powerful and assertive tone.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which of the following historical figures are linked to the wider universe as well as images of light, hope and warmth?
- A.
Toussaint
- B.
Nanny
- C.
Florence Nightingale
- D.
Mary Seacole
Correct Answer
D. Mary SeacoleExplanation
Mary Seacole is linked to the wider universe as well as images of light, hope, and warmth because she was a Jamaican nurse who provided care and support to soldiers during the Crimean War. She is known for her compassion, bravery, and dedication to helping others, which symbolizes the light and hope she brought to those in need. Additionally, her work in healing and caring for others can be seen as providing warmth and comfort, further establishing her connection to these images.Rate this question:
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- 10.
The speaker uses Standard English in lines 46-49 to suggest that important historical Caribbean heroes should feature in the teaching of history.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The speaker's use of Standard English in lines 46-49 indicates that they believe it is important for historical Caribbean heroes to be included in the teaching of history. This suggests that the speaker values the contributions and significance of these heroes and believes that their stories should be told and acknowledged in the curriculum. By using Standard English, the speaker emphasizes the seriousness and importance of this suggestion.Rate this question:
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- 11.
The speaker is happy that he is unaware of his Caribbean heritage even though it is an important part of who he is.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The speaker is not happy about being unaware of his Caribbean heritage, even though it is an important part of his identity. The word "even" suggests a contrast between the speaker's happiness and the importance of his heritage, indicating that the statement is false.Rate this question:
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- 12.
The speaker admires and respects the Caribbean figures he describes in the poem.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The speaker in the poem expresses admiration and respect for the Caribbean figures that he describes. This suggests that the speaker holds a positive view of these individuals and values their contributions or qualities. The use of words like "admire" and "respect" indicates a favorable perception of these figures, further supporting the idea that the statement is true.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Which of the following lines deliberately undermines the importance of a historical figure by making him/her appear childish, basic and unimportant by linking him/her to folklore and nursery rhyme characters?
- A.
Dem tell me bout Lord Nelson and Waterloo (l. 31)
- B.
Dem tell me bout Florence Nightingale and she lamp ( l.36)
- C.
Nanny/see far woman (l.25-26)
- D.
Dem tell me wha dem want to tell mi (l. 51)
Correct Answer
B. Dem tell me bout Florence Nightingale and she lamp ( l.36)Explanation
The line "Dem tell me bout Florence Nightingale and she lamp" deliberately undermines the importance of Florence Nightingale by linking her to a nursery rhyme character. By mentioning her lamp, which is a reference to the nursery rhyme "This Little Light of Mine," the line suggests that Florence Nightingale is portrayed as a basic and unimportant figure.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which of the following does the speaker use to set himself in opposition to mainstream British society?
- A.
Repetition of the phrase 'Dem tell me"
- B.
Use of contrast e.g. dem tell me bout.../but dem neva tell me bout...
- C.
Ironic use of the word bandage in line 5
Correct Answer
A. Repetition of the pHrase 'Dem tell me"Explanation
The speaker uses the repetition of the phrase "Dem tell me" to set himself in opposition to mainstream British society. By repeating this phrase, the speaker implies that mainstream society has been feeding him false information or lies, suggesting that he is aware of a different truth that is not acknowledged or accepted by society. This repetition emphasizes the speaker's dissenting perspective and highlights the divide between his beliefs and those of mainstream British society.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which of the following images are ironic as the act should aid healing but actually promotes blindness and ignorance?
- A.
Dem tell me
- B.
A slave/with vision
- C.
Bandage up me eye
- D.
Even when the British said no
Correct Answer
C. Bandage up me eyeExplanation
The correct answer is "Bandage up me eye". This image is ironic because the act of bandaging up one's eye is meant to aid healing, but in this context, it promotes blindness and ignorance. The phrase "even when the British said no" suggests resistance against the British, but the act of bandaging up the eye symbolizes a refusal to see the truth or acknowledge the reality of the situation. This image highlights the contradiction between the intended purpose of the act and its actual consequences.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Which of the following is used to create a sense of pride in the speaker's background and heritage?
- A.
No dem neva tell me bout dat
- B.
Strong rhymes and broken syntax
- C.
Use of Standard English
- D.
Use of phonetic spelling to imitate Caribbean speech
Correct Answer
D. Use of pHonetic spelling to imitate Caribbean speechExplanation
The use of phonetic spelling to imitate Caribbean speech is used to create a sense of pride in the speaker's background and heritage. By using phonetic spelling, the speaker is showcasing their unique Caribbean dialect and emphasizing their cultural identity. This technique allows the speaker to express their connection to their heritage and instill a sense of pride in their background.Rate this question:
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- 17.
ALL of the following are techniques from the oral tradition of reciting poetry EXCEPT
- A.
Use of Standard English
- B.
Repetition
- C.
Strong rhythms
- D.
Chanting
- E.
Phonetic spelling
Correct Answer
A. Use of Standard EnglishExplanation
The use of Standard English is not a technique from the oral tradition of reciting poetry. In the oral tradition, poetry is often recited in a way that deviates from standard grammar and pronunciation, allowing for more expressive and artistic interpretations of the text. Phonetic spelling, repetition, strong rhythms, and chanting are all techniques commonly used in the oral tradition of reciting poetry to enhance the overall impact and memorability of the poem.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Which of the following are images of light and vision that are used to contrast with the blindness caused by his formal education?
- A.
A slave/with vision ( l.10-11), Toussaint de beacon (L. 20)
- B.
Toussaint de thorn/of the Haitian Revolution (l.20-21)
- C.
Nanny/see far woman (l.26-27)
Correct Answer
A. A slave/with vision ( l.10-11), Toussaint de beacon (L. 20)Explanation
The correct answer is a slave/with vision ( l.10-11), Toussaint de beacon (L. 20). These images contrast with the blindness caused by the narrator's formal education. The mention of a slave with vision suggests that despite being oppressed, the slave is able to see and understand things that the narrator, who has received a formal education, cannot. Toussaint de beacon, a reference to Toussaint Louverture, a leader of the Haitian Revolution, represents someone who fought for freedom and had a clear vision for his people, again contrasting with the narrator's blindness caused by his education.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Which of the following historical figures are connected to imaged of vision, hope, liberty, nature and water?
- A.
Nanny
- B.
Toussaint
- C.
Dick Whittington
- D.
Lord Nelson
Correct Answer
A. NannyExplanation
Nanny is connected to images of vision, hope, liberty, nature, and water because she was a Jamaican national hero who led a rebellion against British colonial rule in the 18th century. She fought for the freedom and rights of enslaved Africans, symbolizing hope and liberty. Nanny was known for her exceptional leadership skills and strategic vision, guiding her people through the treacherous terrain of the Jamaican mountains. She was also believed to have had a deep connection with nature and water, using her knowledge of the land to outmaneuver the British forces.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Which of the following are used by the speaker to separate humorous attacks on British historical and cultural figures from serious details about heroic Caribbean historical figures?
- A.
Use of different stanza forms
- B.
Use of juxtaposition
- C.
Use of contrast
- D.
Repetition of dem tell me
Correct Answer
A. Use of different stanza formsExplanation
The speaker uses different stanza forms to separate humorous attacks on British historical and cultural figures from serious details about heroic Caribbean historical figures. By employing different stanza forms, the speaker creates a visual and structural distinction between the two types of content. This helps to emphasize the contrasting tones and themes in the poem, allowing the humorous attacks to stand out from the more serious and important information about Caribbean history.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The British stanzas are all ______________. This regular form is used to mirror the restrictive nature of his British education, especially when it is contrasted with the free verse and song-like chants used in the Caribbean stanzas.
- A.
Quatrains
- B.
Free verse
- C.
Iambic pentameter
- D.
Enjabment
Correct Answer
A. QuatrainsExplanation
The British stanzas are all quatrains. This regular form is used to mirror the restrictive nature of his British education, especially when it is contrasted with the free verse and song-like chants used in the Caribbean stanzas. The use of quatrains adds a sense of structure and order to the British stanzas, emphasizing the rigid and controlled nature of the education system.Rate this question:
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- 22.
The Caribbean lines are presented in italics with short, sometimes one word lines. This forces the reader to think about the impact of these Caribbean historical figures and their stories. it also emphasises their value to history and suggests that they are worthy to be included in the British curriculum.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the use of italics and short, sometimes one-word lines in the Caribbean lines serves two purposes. Firstly, it forces the reader to think about the impact of these Caribbean historical figures and their stories, highlighting their significance. Secondly, it emphasizes their value to history and suggests that they are worthy to be included in the British curriculum. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
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Sep 03, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Apr 20, 2017Quiz Created by
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