A Raisin In The Sun Socratic Seminar Prep

Topics: Maslow's hierarchy of needs, Abraham Maslow, A Raisin in the Sun Pages: 2 (684 words) Published: April 9, 2015
Final Graded Discussion Questions for 
A Raisin in the Sun 
 
Wednesday, March 25, 2015  
Directions: ​
In order to get full credit in the Graded Discussion (Assessment ­ basically your  mid­term exam), you must ​
complete each prompt​
 in detail using quotes from the play as 
support where appropriate.  Each answer must be at least three (3) bullet points.    
You may prepare for the discussion with a partner; identify your planning partner at the top of  your discussion notes. 
  
1.  
What external factors hindered, or may have hindered, the Youngers’ achievement of  their respective dreams? 
2.  
How do faith and family help the Youngers to transcend external obstacles?  3.  
Who do you think is the head of the Younger family?  Does this role change  throughout the play?  How and why?  What signifies the switch?  4.  
What misconceptions does Walter have about being a businessman?   5.  
What do you think about the risk Walter took with the insurance money? Was it a  worthwhile one? Why or why not? How can you frame this life­changing mistake in a positive  light? 
6.  
How does Beneatha represent a new generation of American dreamers?  What is she  seeking beyond material success? See Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs ​ Maslow's Hierarchy of 
Needs 
7.  
How does the play develop the theme of progress, moving forward, in giant leaps as  well as in smaller steps? What perspective does the character of Joseph Asagai bring with  regard to progress? 
8.  
Who are the idealists in the play? Who are the realists? Is anyone a well­balanced  blend of both? 
9.  
Using information from the articles linked below, what could the Youngers face in  Clybourne Park?  Why did Mama avoid buying a house in an area designated for colored  people? Did they make the right decision?  Why or why not?  10.​

  ​
How does the poetry of Langston Hughes, “I, Too,” “Harlem,” and “A Song to a Negro  Washwoman,” connect to Hansberry’s characters and themes?   ...
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