📚 Part 1: Vocabulary & Background

1. Match each vocabulary word from "Slam, Dunk, & Hook" with its correct definition:

insignia - _______________

labyrinth - _______________

metaphysical - _______________

poised - _______________

rhythm - _______________

Word Bank: balanced/ready, beyond the physical world, maze-like structure, badge or symbol, regular beat or pattern

2. What does "belonging" mean to you? (Connect to the poem's theme)

3. Which of these influenced Yusef Komunyakaa's poetry? (Check all that apply)

Jazz music

Civil Rights Movement

Vietnam War experience

Basketball culture

🎯 Part 2: Poetry Analysis

4. What type of figurative language is used in this line: "We were metaphysical when girls cheered"?

Simile

Metaphor

Personification

Hyperbole

5. How does the poem's structure (line breaks, rhythm) impact its meaning?

6. Find one example of imagery in the poem and explain how it helps you visualize the scene:

Example: ________________________________

7. What does basketball symbolize in this poem?

Just a sport

Escape and community

Competition only

Physical exercise

8. Complete this sentence stem with evidence from the poem:

I found _________________________, which shows _________________________ because _________________________.

9. How does Komunyakaa use sound devices (rhythm, repetition) to mirror basketball movements?

10. Reflection: What is one goal you have for improving your poetry analysis skills?