Student Activities for Mother to Son
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Essential Questions for Mother to Son
- How does Hughes use concrete elements to contribute to the meaning of his poem?
- What is the speaker’s tone in the poem?
- How does this poem relate to other art, literature, or music from the Harlem Renaissance?
- What is the role of figurative language in the poem?
- How does the main idea of this poem relate to our society today?
Who was Langston Hughes?
Langston Hughes (1902-1967) was a well-known African American writer. He is celebrated as a powerful writer of the Harlem Renaissance, the artistic movement that brought about an explosion of African American art, music, and literature in the 1920s and 30s. Like most art produced as part of the Harlem Renaissance, Hughes’s poems speak to the experience of black people in America. Some poems celebrate African American cultural heritage, while others lament their past enslavement and continued economic struggles. These socioeconomic struggles were particularly severe in America during the Jim Crow era before the Civil Rights Movement. “Mother to Son” builds on an understanding of the financial struggles facing many black families in the early 1900s. Written nearly 100 years ago, its message still resonates today.
What is Concrete Poetry?
A concrete poem is one in which the structure of the poem (either physical or grammatical) reflects the content of the poem. Some concrete poems are nearly pictorial in appearance, with lines positioned to reflect a particular shape. Other poems may contain concrete elements such as creative spacing within or between lines to reflect pauses, distance, or emotional depth in the poem. “Mother to Son” contains several concrete elements through which Hughes connects the structure of the poem to the metaphor of the staircase and the difficult life it represents.
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How Tos about Mother to Son by Langston Hughes
Make classroom poetry discussions more student-centered and meaningful
Encourage open dialogue about the poem’s themes by asking students to share personal connections and reactions. Student-centered discussions build confidence and foster deeper understanding by letting everyone’s voice be heard.
Use guided questions to spark thoughtful analysis
Prepare a set of targeted questions that help students break down the poem’s language, structure, and message. Guided questioning keeps conversations focused and supports critical thinking at all grade levels.
Incorporate creative activities for deeper engagement
Invite students to illustrate, act out, or rewrite parts of the poem using their own words or visuals. Creative tasks make poetry approachable and help students internalize key ideas while having fun.
Connect poetry to students’ lives and current events
Ask students to relate the poem’s themes to their own experiences or issues today. Relevant connections boost engagement and show how poetry still matters in the real world.
Provide opportunities for small group discussion
Break students into small groups to discuss a specific question or idea from the poem. Small groups encourage participation and allow quieter students to express their thoughts safely.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mother to Son by Langston Hughes
What is the meaning of Langston Hughes's poem 'Mother to Son'?
'Mother to Son' by Langston Hughes uses the metaphor of a staircase to convey a mother's advice about perseverance through life's hardships. The poem encourages readers to keep climbing and not give up, despite obstacles or setbacks.
How can teachers use 'Mother to Son' in middle grade lessons?
Teachers can use 'Mother to Son' to teach theme, word choice, and poetic structure. It also fits well in units about the Harlem Renaissance, African American literature, and discussions about perseverance and overcoming adversity.
What figurative language is used in 'Mother to Son'?
Langston Hughes uses extended metaphor in 'Mother to Son,' comparing life to a staircase. He also employs vivid imagery and concrete details to express struggle and hope.
How does 'Mother to Son' relate to the Harlem Renaissance?
'Mother to Son' reflects themes of resilience and the African American experience, making it a powerful example of Harlem Renaissance literature. The poem highlights social and economic challenges of the era through relatable language and imagery.
Who was Langston Hughes and why is he important?
Langston Hughes was a leading writer of the Harlem Renaissance, known for poems that celebrate African American culture and confront social injustice. His work, including 'Mother to Son,' continues to inspire and educate students today.
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