Learning Goal: I’m working on a creative writing writing question and need the explanation and answer to help me learn.

Given below are the printed and video copies of Frederick Douglass’s “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?”

TASK 1: Read the manuscript as you listen to the recording.

TASK 2: Annotate as you read and listen.

Read

Listen to

TASK 3: WRITE

Discussion Questions (2 pts. each; 10 pts. total)

1. Why does Douglass appeal to the Constitution in the last section of the speech? What is surprising about this appeal?
2. To what other elements in the American political tradition does he appeal?
3. Given all that he has said in his speech, why does Douglass conclude on an optimistic note for black Americans?
4. What reasons does he give for optimism?
5. What are your feelings about the Fourth of July Holiday?

Submission Guidelines for Discussion Questions

1. Please write your initial posts in complete sentences.
2. Reply to at least one other classmate in this discussion with a substantive response (3-5 sentences): 4 pts. total. In your response, do one of the following:

• Ask a probing question.
• Offer a suggestion.
• Elaborate on a particular point.
• Provide an alternative opinion.

Points Breakdown

Points for discussion questions: 10
Points for responding to 1 other: 4
Total points possible: 14

Discussion Questions

1. Why does Douglass appeal to the Constitution in the last section of the speech? What is surprising about this appeal?
2. To what other elements in the American political tradition does he appeal?
3. Given all that he has said in his speech, why does Douglass conclude on an optimistic note for black Americans?
4. What reasons does he give for optimism?
5. What are your feelings about the Fourth of July Holiday?